Thinking of back to school lunches that your kids will enjoy is hard enough - trying to organise this on a budget is a whole other ball game. Seems like mission impossible right? Whether you've got 1 kid or a few, buying and planning your groceries ahead of the school week will be essential part to budgeting for school lunches. We’re here to help out with suggestions on the top 5 budget friendly school lunches that’re not only nutritious but your kids will enjoy (and hopefully ask/request them) weekly. 

In times like these, we all know budgeting is important and when it comes down to grocery budgeting some of us have mastered the art of this and some haven't. If you're in the "have not mastered" category then not to worry, we've made 5 suggestions of budget friendly packed school lunches. Remember, left over dinner can always make good lunches for the next day so cooking foods that can last a few days is key. 

When it comes to school lunches, you want your kids to be able to enjoy the food you've made whilst it being nutritious for them. 

1.       Pasta salad (tuna, veggies or meats can be added) 

A cold Pasta salad is a great lunch option as the ingredients are at a low cost and can also be made in bulk for the week. This is also a great opportunity to throw in some veggies, proteins or dairy. With a simple way to tailor the salad, you can’t go wrong. 

2.       Black Bean and Cheese quesadillas 

These are the perfect meal to be made ahead of time and again, the ingredients aren’t going to break the bank! Buy some wraps and of course if they’re not all used, they can be frozen and used another time. Canned black beans or any beans your little one enjoys is a great source of protein. 

3.       Grilled Chicken Broccoli Wraps

Wraps are perfect and no matter what you put in them, they’re delicious. These are a great source of protein and of course, can be tailored to ensure your child will enjoy them.

4.       Sweet Potato and Zucchini Slice

We adore hiding and packing vegetables in a meal and what better way to do it than with a sweet potato and zucchini slice. With minimal ingredients, you won’t break the bank with this meal. 

5.       Sausage rolls

The perfect meal to be made in a big batch and of course, super simple to make. With minimal ingredients needed, sausage rolls are also the perfect way to hide veggies in if your little one isn’t too fond of vegetables.  

Follow along the Back to School journey this 2023 with The Athletes Foot to have you and your little (or not so little ones) well prepped for the school year ahead. Head down to one of your local The Athlete's Foot stores to get them fitted in the right school shoes.