8 Ways to Save Money at College
As a college student, one of the biggest challenges can be finding ways to save money. With so many hours spent in class, it can be hard to find time to work while balancing your social life. Here are 8 ways you can save your money while you spend the best four years of your life!
1. Buy Used Textbooks
When taking multiple classes a semester, the cost of textbooks can add up fast when college tuition is already a big expense. Instead of buying brand new books, look into renting already used textbooks that are listed for over half the price. Often your college bookstore will give you the option to rent used textbooks, but if not you can easily find them online. Many websites offer the option to download books online, sometimes even for free. No matter what your major is, there’s no need to pay full price!
2. Get A Keurig
If you’re a coffee-lover like most college students, you’ll want to be making frequent trips to Starbucks and Dunkin’. Whether it’s for your early morning class or to hold you over during those late nights studying in the library, coffee in college becomes a necessity. However, those coffee runs everyday can add up fast, which is why having a coffee machine like a Keurig is a must. Not only do they fit perfect in tight spaces, but also come in a variety of colors that will be sure to match your dorm room. If you aren’t into hot coffee, try brewing some before bed and stick it in your mini fridge overnight. All you need is your favorite creamer, and you’re good to go!
3. Attend Campus Events That Offer Free Merch
Usually at most universities student activities and other clubs will hold activity fairs throughout the semester. Tables are set up by team members providing different information about what your school has to offer. Often at these tables there will be a wide variety of little goodies that you and your friends can pick up, while showing some school spirit. These events always have free things ranging from t-shirts, water bottles, stickers, pens, notebooks and more. Sometimes different events will even offer free food and beverages that you can’t pass up on. Not only will you get free stuff, but you’re likely to meet new people along the way!
4. Pregame Before Hitting The Bar
When going out to the bar or club, buying drinks is sure to take a toll on your bank account. Instead of buying multiple drinks, try hosting a pregame before leaving for your night out. Taking shots might be the fastest way to drink, but you can also try making some new mixed drink recipes that will be sure to impress your friends. You can find many mixed drink ideas online that only require a few ingredients to make! Pregaming is a must in college and is the perfect way to save your spending money and have fun with your friends. Don’t forget to take cute pics of any drink recipes you try out!
5. Use Student Discount At Your Favorite Food Spots
Believe it or not, there are some perks to being a college student you may not know about. If you’re running low on cash but still want to eat out every once in a while, try looking up which local restaurants or cafes near your college that may offer a student discount. By showing your college ID you could get your favorite meals at nearly half the price. Many cafes and fast food joints offer a time frame on certain days where you can get a discount just for being a student. This way you can treat yourself while saving money! Be sure to take advantage of this for as long as you can as your college days will sadly be over before you know it:(
6. Take Free Fitness Classes
When living off dining hall meals, staying in shape can be a huge priority for some college students. However, gym memberships or class subscriptions can add up quick, which is why you must take advantage of free fitness classes offered at your school. These classes are usually self taught by others college students in your fitness center, so it is a great way to bond with your peers while breaking a sweat. Classes can range from yoga, to zumba, spin, pilates, boxing and more, so you’re sure to find something that fits your workout style.
7. Take Advantage Of Student Discounts While Online Shopping
Did you know you could be spending more than you have to on your favorite fashion brands? Not only do some food joints offer student discounts, but numerous online brands offer college student discounts on trending styles. These can range from 10% to up to 50% off your entire purchase, just for attending a university. These deals are perfect for when you’re in need of some new party tops or cute lounge-wear to wear to class.
8. Cook At Home
Treating yourself to dinner or lunch with friends is always fun but can be quite pricey if you go out a lot. This is why learning to cook at college is KEY to saving money. No one says you have to be a 5-star chef, but learning basic cooking skills and recipes will be useful for life way past college. Cooking at home requires basic ingredients depending on your taste. Easy recipes can include pasta dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more. You can find many cooking ideas on Pinterest or TikTok, ranging from simple to more complex recipes. Don’t forget to check out some food accounts for some inspo.
