According to a survey by journalist Antonella Liborio, the school basket of 20 items for primary school averages $63,636, representing a 12% increase from last year. This figure remains below the general inflation rate due to high competition and accumulated stock. As learned from the Argentine News Agency, this year's savings strategy combines the financed purchase in hypermarkets with the 'pilgrimage' through the Once neighborhood to get wholesale prices. While a basic national combo costs around $64,000, premium options can climb up to $241,088. Prices in Hypermarkets (Financing and convenience) Ideal for those looking for installments, although with higher unit values: Black smooth folder: $3,600 Folders with design: from $10,000 Notebooks No. 3: from $5,500 Pencil cases: from $4,500 Colored pencils x 12: from $2,500 Backpacks: from $20,000 (up to 6 installments) Smocks: from $34,990 School shoe/sneaker: from $24,990 (pants/sweatshirt) Prices in Once - Retail (Specialized) More competitive prices for occasional purchases: Black smooth folder: from $3,000 Notebooks No. 3: from $4,000 Two-story pencil case: from $8,000 Colored pencils x 12: from $2,000 Markers x 10: from $2,000 Backpacks: from $15,000 Prices in Once - Wholesale (Group purchases) The most economical option if buying in quantity or among several families: Smooth folder: from $2,000 Notebooks No. 3: from $2,800 Simple pencil case: from $1,200 Black pencils x 12: from $1,200 Markers x 10: from $900 Geometry set: from $550 Adhesive: from $350 Backpacks: from $4,000 Damián Di Pace, director of Focus Market, explained that at the secondary level, the impact is greater, with a 26% annual increase in products dependent on imported inputs such as pens and rulers. BUENOS AIRES, Feb 27 (NA) -- Just days before the start of the 2026 school year, the search for prices has become the main task for Argentine families. For this reason, the trend this year is the 'mix': bulky items at wholesalers, urgent items at specialized local stores, and the most expensive items financed with a card at large chains.
