Back-to-School Tech Spending Nears $900 Per Child, Expert Shares Budget-Friendly Tips

With the new school year approaching, families are expected to spend nearly $900 per child on supplies and technology, according to the National Retail Federation. To help ease the financial burden, tech expert Jennifer Jolly, founder of Techish.com, appeared on a recent segment of “The Nine” to highlight budget-friendly tech options.

Rising Costs for Families

Back-to-school shopping has become a significant expense for households across the country. The National Retail Federation’s latest estimates indicate that parents are allocating close to $900 per student this season, a figure that includes everything from clothing and notebooks to electronic devices and software. For many families, finding ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality—especially when it comes to technology—has become a priority.

Expert Guidance on Affordable Gadgets

During her appearance on “The Nine,” Jolly demonstrated a selection of technology products designed to be both functional and affordable. While specific product names and prices were not disclosed in the segment, Jolly’s focus was on devices that can handle school-related tasks—such as note-taking, research, and virtual learning—without requiring a large upfront investment.

Jolly emphasized that shoppers do not need to purchase the latest high-end models to meet their children’s academic needs. She encouraged parents to look for refurbished or previous-generation devices, compare features carefully, and consider accessories that extend the life of existing gadgets. Her tips aim to help families stretch their back-to-school budgets further while still providing students with the tools they need to succeed.

Planning Ahead for Savings

Beyond the on-air recommendations, experts generally advise families to create a detailed shopping list before heading to stores or browsing online. Price tracking apps, student discounts, and bundle deals can also lead to significant savings. With inflation and rising costs affecting many household budgets, the advice from Jolly and other consumer advocates may prove timely for parents trying to balance educational needs with financial realities.