How To Survive College on a Budget: 14 Tips To Cut Back Expenses
College is not cheap! Not only is tuition costly but there are also a variety of expenses constantly chipping away at your income. Even when you budget as best as possible, surviving college can be challenging while on a budget. To help with that, we have compiled a list of useful tips to help you cut back on expenses!
14 Tips to Cut Back Expenses and Survive College on a Budget
- Get Used Textbooks
Textbooks are one of the things that can make a big dent in your budget, but they’re a necessity. So, instead of buying new textbooks, you should either rent them, buy them used, or look for digital copies. Compare prices and go for the least expensive alternative.
- Cook for Yourself and Make Your Coffee
Food and coffee are both very important. One is vital and the other helps you get through the day. However, constantly eating out or buying coffee are expenses that build up. Opt for cooking your own food and making your own coffee. You can treat yourself occasionally, no problem, but it shouldn’t be a daily thing when you’re on a budget.
- Live Off-Campus
Living off-campus is a must because rental costs are cheaper. Plus, you can get roommates to reduce your living expenses even further by splitting the rent. If your university of choice is in your hometown, we even recommend living at home if it’s possible and realistic for you because it will save you a lot of money.
- Take Advantage of All Campus Amenities
Campus amenities offer a variety of opportunities to save some money, so you should take advantage of them. Look into the amenities available at your particular campus, which may include discounted or free counseling and health care, child care, a library, a gym, free activities, and more.
- Consider Getting a Bike
Instead of buying a car, consider getting a bike to get around instead. In the long run, this will save you a lot of money. Bikes are more cost-effective than cars because you won’t have to worry about making payments, gas money, or costly repairs. Plus, you can use public transportation whenever you need to go longer distances.
- Always Use Your Student Discount
Student discounts exist for a reason, so always take advantage of them. Student discounts are available for all types of purchases, including clothing, food, movie tickets, streaming services, and so much more.
- Get the Hang of Thrifting
Whenever possible, you should thrift the things you need instead of buying them brand new. Thrifting is wonderful and you can get whatever you need, including clothing, shoes, appliances, electronics, books, etc., at a fraction of the price. Do look for thrifting tips to be as efficient as possible!
- Buy a Water Bottle Instead of Bottled Water
Bottled water is the kind of expense that you don’t think twice about, but if you add it up at the end of the year, you’ll see that you’re spending way too much on it. Instead, invest in a good water bottle and fill it with tap water. This simple change can save you up to $1,000 a year!
- Switch to Drugstore Makeup
This one is for makeup lovers! There’s nothing better than having a good makeup stash that can help you look and feel your best every day. However, makeup can be expensive, especially when it comes to high-end brands. The good news is that drugstore and generic makeup offers cheap alternatives of products you love and they’re just as good.
- Learn to Spring Break and Enjoy the Summer on a Budget
Summer trips and spring break can be quite expensive, but you shouldn’t miss out either. They’re both a big part of the college experience! After all, it’s not all study and work, you also have to enjoy yourself. All you have to do is learn to spring break and enjoy the summer on a budget. Free or low-cost activities will help you have an amazing time and make great memories, you just need to find them!
- Always Prioritize Your Bills
Surviving college on a budget is all about being responsible with your finances. Paying your bills on time is a big part of that, so set up automatic payments whenever possible and mark due dates on your calendar. Paying your bills always comes first, even if that means you have to sacrifice something else of less importance/urgency.
- Split Memberships with Friends and Family
Entertainment is very important, but this is another expense that adds up, especially if you use a variety of membership services. Whenever possible, stick to the free version or ask your family to share their accounts with you. You can also ask friends and offer to split the monthly payments to help each other out.
- Use a Good Budgeting App
Budgeting apps can make things so much easier for you! They won’t only help you create a budget, but they will also help you stick with it. A budgeting app is an easy way to track your expenses so you can make informed decisions and plan your savings. These apps are inexpensive or free, just try a few until you find a good fit.
- Ask for Practical Gifts
When your birthday is coming up or the holidays are getting closer, let your inner circle know what you need. Practical gifts are a great way to save money and stock up on essentials. For example, you ask for clothes, cookware, school supplies, and many other essentials that will make your life a little easier.
Conclusion
The most important thing you need to do to survive college on a budget is to keep yourself accountable. Nowadays, spending money is so easy, we do it mindlessly. But every expense adds up.
Whenever you’re about to make a purchase, stop and think. Do you need it? If so, can you find a cheaper alternative? Do that and follow the tips we shared today to have an easier time in college!
