School trips are meant to be exciting, educational experiences for children, whether it’s a day at a museum, a week at an outdoor activity centre, or even a once-in-a-lifetime overseas visit. But the truth is, these trips often come with a price tag that not every family can manage.
If you’re thinking ‘I can’t afford my kids’ school trip’, you’re not alone. Many parents face money problems when it comes to school trips, and it can feel overwhelming when your child comes home full of excitement with a letter about costs.
This guide will explore why school trips cost so much, what help might be available, and how to handle conversations with both your child and the school if you’re struggling.
Why school trips feel so expensive
In recent years, the hidden costs of education have increased for many. Uniforms, equipment, and fundraising events all add up, and when you add school trips into the mix, it can push some family budgets to breaking point.
Some schools offer short day trips for under £20, but residential or overseas visits can cost hundreds. For families already managing tight budgets, these costs can feel impossible.
It’s important to remember you’re not failing your child if you can’t afford a school trip. Many families are in the same position, and schools are increasingly aware of how these financial pressures affect parents.
What happens if you can’t afford a school trip?
If you can’t afford a school trip, it doesn’t automatically mean your child will miss out. Schools have a duty to be fair, and there are rules around what they can and can’t ask you to pay.
In England, for example:
- Schools cannot make parents pay for activities that take place during school hours.
- Voluntary contributions can be requested, but children cannot be excluded if their parents don’t contribute.
- Residential trips may include compulsory costs, but schools should provide clear information and, in some cases, support for families on low incomes.
It’s always worth asking what help is available. Schools may have hardship funds, pupil premium support, or payment plans to help spread the cost.
How to talk to the school if you’re struggling
Speaking to the school might feel daunting, but teachers and school offices deal with these situations regularly. Try to be open and honest about your circumstances.
You could ask:
- Whether there’s any financial help available through the school.
- If a payment plan is possible.
- Whether your child could attend part of the trip if the full cost isn’t manageable.
Schools want children to have equal opportunities, so it’s always worth starting the conversation.
Supporting your child if they can’t go
Sometimes, even with support, the cost of a trip might still be out of reach. Explaining this to your child can be tough, especially if their friends are going.
Here are a few tips that might help:
- Be honest, but age-appropriate and explain in simple terms why the trip isn’t possible.
- Focus on what they can look forward to instead, such as a family day out or special activity.
- Reassure them that missing a trip doesn’t mean they’re missing out on their education.
Children often adapt better than we expect when they feel supported and listened to.
Where to find school trip help
If money problems with school trips are part of a bigger issue with household finances, there are options.
Families on certain benefits may qualify for free school meals, pupil premium, or discretionary support from local councils. Some local charities and parent-teacher associations also provide grants or subsidies for families who are struggling.
If your financial worries go beyond school trips, professional debt advice can give you a clearer picture of your options. For example, a Debt Management Plan (DMP) could make your monthly payments to creditors more affordable, freeing up money for essentials like school costs.
Practical tips to prepare for future school costs
While not every trip can be planned for, setting aside small amounts throughout the year can make future costs easier to manage.
- Keep a ‘school fund’ pot, even if it’s just a few pounds a month.
- Ask the school for early notice of trips so you can spread payments.
- Share experiences with other parents – you may find useful tips on budgeting or second-hand kit for trips.
If you’re dealing with debt and you’re unsure about how different types of debt affect your ability to budget, it may help to read more about types of debt and how they’re prioritised. Understanding which debts need urgent attention could give you more room to plan for family costs like school trips.
Getting support if debts are affecting family life
If you’re finding it difficult to manage more than just school costs, you don’t have to face it alone. You can visit MoneyHelper for free, impartial advice.
At MoneyPlus, we’ve been helping families for over 25 years to find debt solutions that fit their circumstances. Some people choose to explore a Debt Management Plan, while others may benefit from an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA). Both can make debts more manageable and help you focus on everyday essentials.
If you’re worried about multiple debts at once, you may want to explore the wider range of debt solutions available.
Final thoughts
If you can’t afford your kids’ school trip, remember you’re not alone – and you’re not letting your child down. Schools are there to support families, and there may be help available if you ask.
But if school costs are part of a bigger struggle with money, getting support sooner rather than later can make all the difference. You can contact an adviser at MoneyPlus to explore your options and take the first step towards a more manageable financial future.
