How to Save Money in College

College will give you a lot of freedom and teach you about living independently, even if it’s only for August to May. You’re going to be doing laundry on your own - yes, you need to learn how to do that! You’re going to be cooking a little, even if it’s only with your microwave or toaster and learning how to get your toast done the perfect amount without setting off the fire alarm. You’re also going to be on your own financially. When you lived at home with your parents, you probably didn’t go out and spend money on clothes or even a coffee shop drink as often. When you’re in college, you’re on your own and it’s easier to splurge on a new shirt or a coffee on campus every day. So how can you save money in college beyond having a budget?

It may sound weird to think that by spending a little more money at one time, you can save overall. However, it’s true – invest in things like water pitchers with filters so you can drink the tap water in your college dorm room. You’ll always have cool water in your mini-fridge that you can fill your reusable water bottle with and save money on bottled water. Similarly, if you find yourself heading toward a coffee shop on campus to buy an expensive coffee every day, you can save a lot of money by investing in a coffee maker to keep in your college dorm room. The cost of the coffee maker will be much less than what would spend in a whole year or even just a semester of getting coffee in the coffee shop every day. When you get takeout, you may eat some of it and then throw the leftovers away. Leftovers are going to be one of your best friends in college. Invest in small containers to keep your leftovers in so you can have lunch or dinner the next day. Another way to save some money is actually with your student ID. Some stores whether on campus or even in the mall may offer student discounts with a Student ID. Not sure if they offer a discount? Simply ask! And if you want to go to a museum, art exhibit, or zoo with your friends, those places may have discounts or even certain days you can get in free with a student ID.