(BPT) - Back-to-school season can bring excitement, a fresh routine … and a long shopping list that can squeeze your family's budget. And this school year is set to be more expensive than ever before.
According to PwC's 2026 US Consumer Poll on Back-to-School Shopping, parents expect to spend an average of $922 this year, and nearly half (47%) say they plan to spend more than they did in 2025.
Technology has become an important part of the equation. From coordinating school pickups to sending a reminder about band practice, or accessing digital school resources and communicating with teachers, technology plays a big part in families' everyday lives. But as costs rise, families are looking for ways to spend smarter. Deloitte's recent back-to-school survey found that parents are planning to cut technology spending by 16% this year as they put off device upgrades. This makes finding the right value especially important.
So, how can families get the technology and connectivity they need without further straining their back-to-school budgets? One place to start is with their wireless provider.
Metro by T-Mobile is helping families stay connected while sticking to their budgets during one of the most expensive times of the year and beyond. With affordable wireless plans, value-packed device offers and weekly perks, families can find practical ways to save while keeping students connected at school, at home and everywhere in between.
Value-packed device offers
A new school year can be a good time to upgrade a student's device, but the cost can add up quickly. The good news is that customers who bring their number to Metro now can get a free Samsung Galaxy A37 5G with no activation fees — a $450 value — on the $40 PERIOD plan. Combined with unlimited 5G data and a five-year price guarantee on talk, text and 5G data, families can have peace of mind knowing how much they'll pay each month for their wireless plan.
Affordable family plans
When it comes to choosing a wireless plan, you need one that makes life easier and more affordable. That's why Metro offers affordable plans designed to help families stay connected during busy school days, after-school activities and everyday check-ins.
For families with loved ones abroad, Metro also offers unlimited calling and texting to Mexico and select Latin American countries on select plans, making it easier to stay in touch with grandparents and other family members no matter where they are. It's just one more way Metro delivers value without compromise.
Weekly savings beyond wireless
An affordable family plan and device upgrade offers are just the beginning. Metro customers also get access to T-Mobile Tuesdays offers, including giveaways, discounts at restaurants and more. For families already juggling school supplies, after-school activities and everyday expenses, these weekly offers provide additional ways to save and add a little fun during the school week.
Stay connected while sticking to your budget
Back-to-school shopping may be expensive, but staying connected doesn't have to be. With affordable plans, smart device offers and weekly savings, Metro helps families stay connected while making room in the budget for whatever else the school year may bring.
To learn more about how you can save this school year without sacrificing connection, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com.
LEGAL: Price guarantee: exceptions apply. $450+ based on Metro device discount and waived activation fee. If you use a lot of data, more than 35GB/mo., you may notice slower speeds when our network is busy. See details at MetroByT-Mobile.com.
