Most Spaniards will return shortly from the holidays, and soon it will be time to resume work and school. In this new academic year, households are readjusting budgets to cope with the autumn price shift anticipated by consumer groups.
In a practical guide, representatives from the consumer bodies OCU and CECU share a set of recommendations designed to help families bridge the gap between rising costs and household incomes. They warn that this fall could be tough for many families, especially the most vulnerable, with a broad uptick in prices across essentials.
According to Enrique García, spokesman for OCU, the organization has documented through various studies an overall price rise across categories as the year progresses. Costs for food, fuel, gas, electricity, and back-to-school items are all expected to be higher than last year, with the average student expense for this period projected to exceed the 2021 level, varying by education type.
Transportation, food, textbooks, school supplies, clothing, and footwear are all set to increase. This creates a discouraging outlook for family budgets, especially as energy prices climb and the effects of ongoing geopolitical tensions ripple into other areas of household spending.
With prices on the rise, the guide offers practical steps to reduce bills and manage spending effectively.
gas and electricity
The first step is to check eligibility for energy social bonuses and to consider thermal insulation measures at home.
The most straightforward way to save on gas and electricity is to opt for a cheaper rate if possible. OCU notes a significant difference between the regulated tariff and the free market, particularly for gas, where the regulated cap currently offers protection against sharp increases caused by market volatility.
When it comes to electricity tariffs, the same principle applies. Regularly reviewing invoices and contracted rates is essential, especially at renewal time, since price revisions are often implemented without clear consumer references or straightforward explanations. Persistent charges are not recommended.
Energy efficiency remains crucial: improving home insulation, using efficient appliances, and maintaining comfortable but prudent indoor temperatures can prevent a 7–10% bump in the bill during the coming months.
back to school
There is emphasis on second-hand options for school supplies and uniforms. CECU representatives suggest reusing books from prior years and purchasing second-hand textbooks as needed for the current year.
Families should explore possible municipal or regional aid for school materials, canteens, and scholarships, which may also cover rent or energy efficiency improvements.
Public transport
Public transport subsidies have been expanded since September, potentially lowering the cost of daily travel and reducing fuel usage. Carpooling and careful fuel-price shopping at different stations can also help manage expenses since prices vary widely.
food
Food costs have risen sharply, with more than 90% of items in the typical OCU shopping basket showing price increases. Planning purchases, buying only what is needed, and reducing waste are essential. Leftovers can be reused or frozen to extend value and minimize spoilage.
Looking for promotions can help, but large purchases require caution, especially fresh produce with a short shelf life. Purchasing from local farmers or markets can offer savings on seasonal, sustainable products while supporting regional producers.
Avoid fast loans
When financing is necessary, compare offers and review loan terms carefully. Fast loans and revolving credit cards should be avoided to prevent debt traps.
Clothing and technology
Reusing clothes from the previous year is smart, and most worn items can be repaired or repurposed. Second-hand garments, donations, or resale options can further stretch budgets.
Unnecessary purchases should be avoided. If a bigger purchase is unavoidable, consider waiting for sales or exploring second-hand options or donations first. It may also be possible to upgrade older devices by cleaning, removing temporary files, or installing lighter software, which can boost performance and prolong lifespan.
In some cases, upgrading certain computer components can be cheaper than buying an entirely new device.