Semester $aving Tips

The new semester is quickly approaching for those attending school. Whether you are returing for your Associates, Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate degree you, most likely, face the same major set-back… BOOKS.

It is no secret that textbooks can ring a student up to unthinkable amounts.  I, alone, find myself spending atleast $300 per semester on textbooks. I want to share some of my recommendations on how to save money during the semester, so you don’t find yourself scrapping for change at the end of each month.

Rent or Purchase Textbooks Used 📚

When I first started school, I thought that I needed to purchase all of my textbooks new. This way they would have the best quality and nobody elses scribbles… right? Wrong.

I have found that used textbooks are often half of the price and still look good as new. If you do get a used textbook that is destroyed, most companies will ship you a new one right away. These textbook companies are reviewing every book that comes back to them for quality assurance.

Renting is always an option. If you like to read from an E-Book then I highly recommend it. The E-Books are inexpensive, never get ruined, and are automatically returned at the end of each semester. Renting hard-copy books is also a more inexpensive way to get your books. If you choose this option be sure to send the book back! I remember by placing a post-it note or flashcard somewhere inside of the book.

Avoid the School Bookstore 🚫

The school bookstore is the last place you want to get your textbook. Even professors have given students the heads up NOT to purchase their books directly from the school. They charge you almost double the price!

I have had great luck in finding almost ALL of my textbooks through (you guessed it) Amazon. The books come fast and are in good quality when they show up at your front door a few days later. I can say that I have never had a problem ordering from Amazon. Plus they offer a Student Prime Membership Trial that is worth using!

There are many other textbook sites that are cheaper than the bookstore. I would recommend Chegg for any rentals, used, or new books. They make sure each book is in great shape before sending them out.

Set Yourself a Coffee and Snack Budget ☕️

Unless your school has a Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks you likely spend a good deal on coffee and snacks each semester. It’s understandable, but important to keep track of the coffee runs. I am guilty of going on WAY too many coffee runs, but I have learned to set myself a monthly budget. This way I know I am spending what I can.

One of the best ways to keep track is through your iPhone. It can be hard to maintain a spreadsheet or write everything on a notepad. We always have our phones on us, so why not utilize them to their full potential? If you haven’t heard of any budgeting apps, I suggest Mint. Through Mint you can set yourself budgets in many different areas.

Keep track of your money every week and you will be less likely to spend it.

Add Money to Your Savings Each Month 💳

If you do not have a savings account, open one. This is the best thing you will do or yourself this semester. Having a savings account helps you to save money, earn a little interest, and to watch your earnings grow. If you have a checking account the bank can easily add an additional savings account to your name.

Put aside 20% of every paycheck (atleast) into your savings account and then don’t look at it until you are depositing again. A savings account isn’t being used properly if funds are constantly being transferred. You will be happy with all of your saving when your friends decide to take a spontaneous Spring Break trip and you have the money to go!

Limit Your Late Night Food Runs 🍟

Late night food runs tend to become more frequent as the semester rolls along (trust me, I know). There are many different places to grab a bite, but it can become dangerous for your waistline and your wallet.

To reduce the urge, keep healthy(ish) snacks in your room to curb those late night cravings. Drink some water or grab a bite of fruit to keep it healthy. I like to limit myself to a time frame and nights per week. By telling yourself you can eat out once a week you will be less likely to indulge more often.

Once you start to curb the late night food runs you will see a significant change in your spending habits and overall health. You may even kick them out of your routine altogether.

Put Aside Enough Money for Occasional Adventures 🎢

Trip into town? Winter break? Spring Break?

No matter what it is you are considering you need the money to go. By putting aside enough money for these last-minute getaways, you won’t have to worry when the time comes around to pay up.

Find a Part-Time Job Aligning with Your School Schedule 💼

There are always part-time jobs available in the area around your school. There are also many jobs available on campus! From being a note-taker to working in the school gym, there is bound to be a job that aligns with your schedule. Depending on your major there may be a job that works for your resume… (that’s a win-win).

Some places that tend to hire frequently are local daycares, restaurants, banks, and retail stores. If you go to school near the mall there are endless opportunities for retail positions. Maybe there is a job a little further away that you can work on the weekends. Talk to the school and see if train or bus passes are available.

Still Have Your Trusty Piggy Bank at Home? 👛

Save your change! Most people neglect to keep their change all together. It tends to end up in the bottom of all 5 (or more) of your purses, in the car, on the street, etc. If you kept it all together it really adds up.

I made my own DIY Coin Bank out of  a Planter’s Nut Container… the possibilities! (No, really, check out Pinterest for some really awesome ideas on how to make these)

Keep Supplies Organized 📑

By keeping books and other supplies organized you won’t find yourself having to borrow others or replacing your own every other week. It is easy to lose track of books, calculators, and projects are working on too many things at once. Always make sure to organize your bag, room, and desk so you know it hasn’t gone missing.

Once you begin to follow these savings tips you will see a significant increase in your available funds. More money going in and less money coming out… where could you go wrong?

I would love to hear some of YOUR $avings Tips below!