Because economic times are tougher and student financial assistance is harder to obtain, you need to understand there are ways to live on a budget while you live in the dorm. Practicing frugality can save a lot of money month by month that you can put away for your educational expenses.
- Students may advertise used books for sale on campus.
- There may be deals online.
- Share a book with a roommate or friend and split the price.
- Sell any old books you have to pay for the new ones you need.
- See if the library has a copy you could use.
- If you must buy new, take care of the book to get a good price for it later.
- Care packages from home are always a happy treat. Ask family and friends to send snacks and non-perishables instead of less practical items.
- Buy in bulk. For items you use on a daily basis, you can stock up for less.
- Get a small refrigerator and microwave if permitted so you can cook for yourself.
- Buy a 6-pack of water bottles to keep in your room and get refills from the water fountains at school.
- Buy canisters of powdered drink mixes to add to water instead of buying bottled drinks at the store.
- Buy a local paper and look for sales at the grocery store.
- Stay away from vending machines.
- If you eat meals in the cafeteria, inquire about meal plans and choose one that fits your schedule so you aren’t wasting money on food you do not eat.
- Pack a lunch in your backpack for in between classes instead of hitting the fast food or pizza joint.
- Always inquire about student discounts everywhere you go. You may be surprised to learn who will give you a discount: movie theaters, malls, restaurants, and more.
- Join a club on campus.
- Check out neighboring schools for fun activities.
- Explore the outdoor activities on warm days, like hiking, biking, or just exploring the town with friends.
- Check out local happy hours for discounts on food and drinks.
- Take advantage of on-campus gyms and recreation areas.
- Check out the local discount and dollar stores. Many places offer the same thing as department stores, just at way better prices.
- Furniture and other storage items can be found at thrift stores or from family and friends.
- Use the computers and printers on campus to save on ink and paper.
- Wait to move in before buying all of your stuff. Between room size and actual necessities, you may go overboard out of excitement.
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CollegeBasics also suggests that you check out the Student Advantage Card to save up to 50% on purchases such as pizza (a college student’s staple!), hair cuts, computers, plane, train or bus tickets, textbooks, cell phones, and other merchandise at a variety of online and storefront stores. It’s a great deal and will save you lots of money during the year. You will even get $10 off on your first purchase with your card. You can’t beat that!