Getting Through College on Less
Do you have expensive taste, while living on a limited budget? With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can pay your bills, have fun and save for the future without breaking your bank account. By cutting corners and making small changes, living within your budget can be easy. Check out some common budget busters to learn how to combat them before they become overwhelming.
Food
A person has to eat, but if you’re not careful, it can be easy to exceed your budget. If you live on campus and have a meal plan, use it. You’ve already paid for it, so you’re throwing money away if you don’t take advantage of it. If your dorm room is equipped with a refrigerator, fill it with affordable snacks rather than purchasing items from the vending machine. While grocery shopping, seek out coupons for products you frequently use and consider shopping at discount stores. When dining out, invite a friend and take advantage of two-for-one offers or share an entrée.
Transportation
If you own a car, remember to consider things that aren’t regular expenses, like tune-ups and new tires. Stash a little money each month so you’ll be able to cover these expenses when they pop up. Don’t forget about gas! When filling up, comparison shop for the best quality and lowest price. It’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotation. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will lengthen the life of your car.
Entertainment
Forgetting to budget for a little fun is why some people don’t stick to their budget. When boredom strikes, look for free entertainment like movie nights on campus, concerts or community events and festivals. Visit nearby museums or parks and attend college sporting events, usually at discounted prices.
Furnishings
When decorating your dorm room or apartment, check out thrift stores, consignment shops, online sites (like Facebook Martketplace), the classifieds and garage sales to get good stuff at a cheap price. If you’ll be living with a roommate, check out what they have and shop accordingly. There’s no need to show up on move-in day with duplicates of everything.
Clothes
If you’re a fashionista, but your clothing budget leaves you feeling blah, look for some cheaper alternatives than the mall. Consignment stores often have name brand items, sometimes with original tags still attached. Host a clothing swap with your friends. The things they’re tired of wearing may be just what you’ve had your eye on. When a visit to your favorite store is a must for retail therapy, always look for deals and avoid paying the full cost. Eventually everything goes on sale, so practice patience and wait it out.
