Skip to main content

Featured

Why Your Grocery Bill Keeps Rising — And What You Can Do About It

  It's not just gas. Canada's food inflation hit its highest pace in over a year in May 2026 — and produce prices are leading the charge. MoneySavings.ca  |  June 27, 2026 If your grocery receipts have been giving you sticker shock lately, you're not imagining things. Canada's official inflation figures, released by Statistics Canada on June 22, confirm that food prices are climbing faster than the overall cost of living — and have been for 16 consecutive months . If you're trying to figure out why your weekly shop costs so much more than it did a year ago, here's a plain-English breakdown — and some practical steps you can take to soften the blow. By the Numbers — May 2026 (Statistics Canada) Overall CPI: +3.2% year over year (highest since December 2023) Grocery prices (food purchased from stores): +4.3% year over year Fresh vegetables: +9.0% year over year Fresh fruit: +5.3% year over year Tomatoes: +45.2% year over year Lettuce: +10.7% year over year G...

article

Smart Savings for a Sharp School Start: Canadian Parents’ 2025 Guide

 

As summer winds down and school bells start ringing again, Canadian families are gearing up for one of the busiest—and often priciest—times of year. With inflation still nipping at household budgets, back-to-school season in 2025 calls for sharper saving strategies than ever. But fear not, frugal parents! Here's a short guide to help you cut costs without compromising on quality or preparedness.

Top Back-to-School Savings Tips for 2025

  • Shop Your Home First
    Before you hit the stores, rummage through last year’s supplies. You may already have unused notebooks, pens, or art materials tucked away in drawers.

  • Set a Budget (and Stick to It)
    Break down expenses by category—supplies, clothing, tech—and assign spending limits. Use budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB to stay on track.

  • Buy in Bulk with Other Parents
    Team up with friends or neighbours to buy bulk items like paper, tissues, or snacks. You'll all save money—and maybe build a mini community supply swap.

  • Watch for Tax-Free Days and Digital Coupons
    In provinces like Ontario, many stores offer tax-free or "back-to-school deal" weekends. Stack deals with manufacturer coupons or loyalty points for extra discounts.

  • Go Secondhand for Tech and Fashion
    Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and certified refurbished electronics websites can help slash costs on tablets, calculators, and stylish clothes.

  • Don't Overbuy
    Teachers often provide updated supply lists during the first week. Hold off on buying specialty items until you know what's truly needed.

Bonus Tip: Invest in Quality Backpacks

While cheaper options can be tempting, a durable, ergonomic backpack will go the distance—and save you from shelling out again mid-year.


Comments

Popular Posts