How to Save Money Living in an Apartment as a College Student
Use natural lighting., Take offers from your parents and generous friends., Ditch cable., Unplug electronics that aren't in use., Use Craigslist to furnish your apartment/dorm., Travel smart., Enjoy the perks of your apartment or campus.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Use natural lighting.
Use as much natural light as possible.
Open all those blinds, draw the curtains, and only use light switches when you really need them. -
Step 2: Take offers from your parents and generous friends.
If anyone offers for you to come over for dinner, take them up on it.
Not only will you get a free meal, but also company! Likewise, if someone offers you any item, take a look.
If it's clothes and they fit, why not? If you don't particularly care for whatever it is, think of other friends to whom you could re-gift it (if the condition is good). , Cut out commercials by using Netflix, Redbox, or another movie provider.
Many apartments and colleges have a television room.
Use this when craving TV.
Libraries have free DVD rentals. , Okay, so you've probably heard this a thousands times, but it helps your bill significantly! Unplug your desktop, laptop, TV, lamps, toaster, blender, and all other lesser appliances! Leave your larger appliances (washer/dryer, stove) plugged in, as constantly unplugging can wear down the electrical outlet and cost you more for repair in the end). , It's not always the most fashionable option, but Craigslist can have outstanding deals. check out the FREE section.
Fold-out sofas are frequently put up for free.
Many other household items are available on Craigslist, such as décor and smaller appliances. , If you're going away for spring or summer break, consider camping instead of hotels.
Many campsites cost $15-$35 a night, as opposed to $100+ for a hotel.
Borrow a tent if you can (or even camp in your car) and have fun surrounded by great outdoors while also enjoying the new place you're visiting.
Look for free things where you're headed.
Seek out natural wonders like hot springs, rocks to climb, hiking trails, free concerts, etc.
If you know any locals, ask for insider advice on a cheap trip.
If you live away from family, try to carpool with friends to visit home.
Pack sandwich fixings instead of eating fast food constantly during a road trip.
Drink water (with lemons if you like) at every restaurant.
Chose museums wisely.
If you think a certain museum will have the same features as your local one, skip it. , If your complex offers gas grills, use them often for everything from burgers to beans.
If there's a fire pit, use this for s'mores with friends, or roasting hot dogs.
Your turn to host a night out with friends? Instead of spending on bowling or the like, play volleyball/basketball/whatever if you have access to a court.
Also, hit up the pool when the weather is nice.
Most apartments offer free coffee and tea, so use this instead of brewing your own.
If there's a community event, check it out.
Even if it's for something you don't care about (a Mary Kay party, etc), there's probably free food.
Use the free workout room and don't be tempted to purchase a membership at the local gym. -
Step 3: Ditch cable.
-
Step 4: Unplug electronics that aren't in use.
-
Step 5: Use Craigslist to furnish your apartment/dorm.
-
Step 6: Travel smart.
-
Step 7: Enjoy the perks of your apartment or campus.
Detailed Guide
Use as much natural light as possible.
Open all those blinds, draw the curtains, and only use light switches when you really need them.
If anyone offers for you to come over for dinner, take them up on it.
Not only will you get a free meal, but also company! Likewise, if someone offers you any item, take a look.
If it's clothes and they fit, why not? If you don't particularly care for whatever it is, think of other friends to whom you could re-gift it (if the condition is good). , Cut out commercials by using Netflix, Redbox, or another movie provider.
Many apartments and colleges have a television room.
Use this when craving TV.
Libraries have free DVD rentals. , Okay, so you've probably heard this a thousands times, but it helps your bill significantly! Unplug your desktop, laptop, TV, lamps, toaster, blender, and all other lesser appliances! Leave your larger appliances (washer/dryer, stove) plugged in, as constantly unplugging can wear down the electrical outlet and cost you more for repair in the end). , It's not always the most fashionable option, but Craigslist can have outstanding deals. check out the FREE section.
Fold-out sofas are frequently put up for free.
Many other household items are available on Craigslist, such as décor and smaller appliances. , If you're going away for spring or summer break, consider camping instead of hotels.
Many campsites cost $15-$35 a night, as opposed to $100+ for a hotel.
Borrow a tent if you can (or even camp in your car) and have fun surrounded by great outdoors while also enjoying the new place you're visiting.
Look for free things where you're headed.
Seek out natural wonders like hot springs, rocks to climb, hiking trails, free concerts, etc.
If you know any locals, ask for insider advice on a cheap trip.
If you live away from family, try to carpool with friends to visit home.
Pack sandwich fixings instead of eating fast food constantly during a road trip.
Drink water (with lemons if you like) at every restaurant.
Chose museums wisely.
If you think a certain museum will have the same features as your local one, skip it. , If your complex offers gas grills, use them often for everything from burgers to beans.
If there's a fire pit, use this for s'mores with friends, or roasting hot dogs.
Your turn to host a night out with friends? Instead of spending on bowling or the like, play volleyball/basketball/whatever if you have access to a court.
Also, hit up the pool when the weather is nice.
Most apartments offer free coffee and tea, so use this instead of brewing your own.
If there's a community event, check it out.
Even if it's for something you don't care about (a Mary Kay party, etc), there's probably free food.
Use the free workout room and don't be tempted to purchase a membership at the local gym.
About the Author
Ann Ford
Brings years of experience writing about pet care and related subjects.
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