Everyone knows that college students are on a shoestring budget. Between the cost of tuition, textbooks, and room and board, there is little leftover for anything else. If you are a college student or the parent of a college student, you might be wondering how to make your back to school cash go a little further. Well the good news is, it is very possible to still live the good life in college for less. If you are looking for some helpful back to school college tips, take a look below at 7 back to school college tips that can help you or your college student get back to school without breaking the bank and needing to live on ramen noodles all year!
Don’t worry, you can still afford to eat well, dress nicely, and attend fun events and afford the things you want even if you are a struggling college student. Take a low below at 7 great tips to get you started.
7 Back to School College Tips:
1. Use your student ID every chance you get!
Many retailers and eateries near college campuses offer a student discount. You can save as much as 20% on everything from coffee to clothing when you show your ID and prove you are a student. Carry your ID with you everywhere so when a chance presents itself you can take advantage of it and claim your discount.
2. Shop Craigslist for home goods.
Keep an eye on Craigslist to find secondhand and gently used furniture items. Your new home or apartment will call for a couch, end tables, kitchen chairs, etc. Craigslist is the perfect place to find furniture items at a huge discount. Plus, you can search locally so you don’t have to go far to retrieve it. There is also a “wanted” section so you can post a free ad for the items you are looking for as well.
3. Buy used textbooks.
Textbooks can be a costly part of college. A single textbook can run over $100 new. Instead, buy your textbooks used. You can find used textbooks for around half the cost of new. Used textbooks can be found at your college book stores or even online at www.campusbooks.com.
4. Use public transportation.
Don’t waste money on a car. It will require you to not only pay for the car, but pay for parking passes, registration, and other fees that you just don’t need the hassle of right now. Instead, use public transportation such as the bus system to get around. You will not only save cash, you will meet people and learn your way around quickly this way.
5. Take advantage of free campus activities.
Colleges know students are broke, so they offer tons of free activities for students to take advantage of. Enjoy free outdoor movies, free lunches and dinners, dances, carnivals, and so much more. Make sure you are on contact lists for such events so you can take advantage of them.
6. Shop at discount grocery chains.
Grocery chains such as Save a Lot and Aldi are perfect for buying groceries at a huge discount. Buy generic soups, cereals, mac and cheese, produce, and more at a fraction of the cost. Stock up on staples such as rice, noodles, soups, sauces, and other items that will store well and last you all year.
7. Find ways to make extra cash.
There are many great ways for college kids to score some extra cash. Sell your used textbooks back at the end of the semester, sell your clothing you no longer wear at a consignment shop, tutor for local grade school students, or you can even offer to do odd jobs such as cleaning or babysitting. Take advantage of these opportunities to score a little extra cash so you can continue to do the things you want to do.
When you follow these tips, you can not only save money but make some money too! You will see how easy it is to still enjoy a variety of activities, have a full stomach, a furnished apartment, and just live a full and fun college life. Give these tips a try or pass them on to someone who you know can use them. They are sure to keep a little cash in your pocket and make the college experience a more pleasurable one!
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