Back to School Budget Buys: Top Tips from a Tight Tech Mum

It’s that time of year when many of us are wondering: When did a $1,000 tablet become necessary for learning? And how will my clumsy 11-year-old ever be trusted with such a hefty purchase?

With a dozen eggs now hitting $11.50 at my local supermarket, I thought I’d share some cost-of-living tech tips and budget-friendly buy recommendations for the must-have (and the nice-to-have) school tech upgrades.

Budget-Friendly Back-to-School Tech Tips

1. As little as possible, as much as necessary.

Top specs aren’t needed for schoolwork. If the device runs Google Docs and Zoom, you’re set.

2. If buying a laptop, consider the school’s recommended model.

Schools often have tech support, preferred suppliers, and insurance add-ons for their recommended devices.

3. If your school offers an insurance plan, get it.

Trust me, it’s worth the peace of mind, and some schools help students handle claims.

4. Upgrade YOUR device and hand down your old one.

Your child won’t mind a pre-loved device, and you’ll get to upgrade your own tech instead.

5. Get it in writing!

A tech-use contract is a game-changer for young users.

6. Use new tech to spark digital safety conversations.

Every device upgrade is an opportunity to talk about online privacy, security, and screen time limits.

7. Consider second-hand and refurbished models.

Check CEX Entertainment and Reebelo.com for budget-friendly, quality refurbished tech.

8. Research your child’s phone plan.

Make sure they can’t accidentally run up a huge bill on data overuse or in-app purchases.

9. Consider a ‘dumbphone’.

For younger kids, a basic phone (like the Nokia 3210—review [here]!) can be a great option.

10. Check your school’s included app subscriptions.

Many schools provide free or discounted subscriptions to apps like Canva, Mathletics, and Microsoft Office—no need to pay twice!

11. Save on printer ink.

Aftermarket printer inks work just as well as genuine cartridges and cost significantly less.

12. Set up your child’s device yourself.

You should have first and final say on security settings, connectivity, location tracking, and app installations. Consider installing privacy and monitoring apps before handing over the device and make sure they don’t have unbridled access to your app store account and payment details.

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Top Budget Buys for Back-to-School Tech

💡 Here are some solid options that won’t break the bank:

📱 Nokia 3210 ‘Dumbphone’ – $129

A modern twist on a nostalgic classic! Limited to calls and texts, it’s perfect for younger kids who just need a “just-in-case” phone.

📱 Moto G 75 5G – From $499 (including wireless earbuds)

A budget-friendly smartphone with premium materials, military-grade durability, and IP68 waterproofing. Available in a bundle with wireless earbuds for just $499.

🖨️ HP Envy 6131e AIO Printer – $79

A budget-friendly printer with high-quality prints for school assignments and inspo boards. Affordable and easy to set up!

💻 HP Pavilion 16” Intel Core Ultra 7 Laptop – $997 (a little more exy)

A powerful, sleek laptop featuring the latest AI-enabled Intel Core processors—perfect for keeping up with schoolwork and multitasking.

🍏 Apple Back to School Deal (until March 13, 2025)

Save money by trading in old Apple tech or taking advantage of Apple’s Back to School offer. Students, educators, and higher education institutions can get:
✔️ Education discounts on Mac & iPad
✔️ Bonus AirPods or Apple Pencil with eligible purchases
✔️ Trade-in valuations online or at Apple Stores

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Like all things in these tricky economic times, shop around, wait for sales, trade in old gear, and consider second-hand refurb models.

You’ll be amazed at how much you can save!

Xoxo,
Elise