Even before 529s, you could still save for education- you can open a Uniform Gift to Minors Account and the interest is taxed at the child's rate which is lower.The disadvantage was once the child was 18, they could do whatever they wanted with the money. We were able to put our kids through 4 years of college with all expenses paid. They are grateful and doing well.
18 years from now , who knows what college and higher education will be like? Do you get any gifts of money for your child- you could put those in a 529 account or ask grandparents to cut down on the toys and give $50 at Christmas.