1. If you can't buy decorations
Make them yourself, and don't doubt the dollar store. Look for fake fall foliage to stick around the room or create a wreath to hang on the door. If you can't get to a store, gather your friends for a nature walk and collect the colorful leaves you find for more DIY crafts that can be easily hung up with Command Strips and sticky tack. No damage to the walls, no fines from Res Life, and no calls from dad saying you broke the bank with the expensive decor.
2. If you can't afford overpriced costumes
Take a look in your closet; you'll be surprised at how many pieces you already own that can be used to create Halloween costumes. Pick out one top and pants, and change around the accessories to make different outfits! A black top, black skirt, and ears make a perfect cat costume, but switch out the ears for pearls and you're a flapper straight from the 1920's. If you do decide to spend some cash on accessories, make sure to find some that can double as a different character for next year!
3. If you don't have a kitchen
Ever heard of no-bake desserts? There are recipes upon recipes of fall treats that don't require an oven! Caramel candy apples are the perfect classic autumn sweet that is easy to make in a dorm room. All you need is a jar of caramel sauce to dip your freshly picked apples in. Stick on any extra candy or salty snacks while the caramel is still sticky, then pop them in the fridge to harden. If your school allows microwaves, heat up some chocolate for a melty, chocolate drizzle! No more FOMO from intricate cooking videos that require a professional kitchen.
4. If you can't have a bonfire
Missing the days when you could sit around the fire pit and roast smores? Here's another no-bake dessert that will cure your craving. Crush graham crackers into a cupcake wrapper, then layer marshmallow fluff, or a real Jet-Puffed, on top. Lastly, take your melted chocolate and drizzle a thick layer over the marshmallow. Stick these s'mores cups in the fridge until the chocolate hardens, then enjoy your no flame treat!
5. If you can't go trick-or-treating
Neighboring homes might find it a bit strange if a group of college kids come knocking at their door for candy, but here's a way to take the trick-or-treating fun from the streets to your dorm! Use a Command Strip to hang a basket of candy on the outside of your door, so other residents can grab a piece when they walk by. Get the whole dorm involved by going around to each other's rooms and asking for candy. It's a great way to get to know who lives across the hall and make new friends!
6. If you're not near a movie theater
College students no longer have to fear about being out of the loop when it comes to entertainment. If you have the funds, an Amazon Fire Stick or Chromecast allows you to stream movies right to your TV screen. If you're looking for a more affordable way to have a scary movie marathon, connect an HDMI cord from your laptop to the TV and start watching! All you need is some blankets, popcorn, and a few brave friends to have the perfect horror movie hangout.
7. If you can't make fall drinks
Make your own fall cocktails instead! All your favorite fall flavors can easily be incorporated into a two-ingredient drink. Grab some apple cider, caramel, and vanilla and you're set with tons of options to mix and match. If you're more into sweets, try a boozy caramel milkshake! It's an easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth and mix up your regular line of going out drinks.
8. If the fall trends are too expensive
Chunky sweaters and fluffy beanies are the perfect addition to a fall wardrobe, but not every college student has a mall close to their school. If you're looking for a way to revamp your look this autumn, go shopping in your roommates' closets! Return the favor by allowing them to peek into your drawers. A sweater swap is a perfect way to find new pieces and get rid of your old ones without spending a dime. Let's be honest, we're all guilty of bringing too many clothes to school.
9. If you're not allowed to carve pumpkins
It's safe to say most school won't let you keep carving knives in your dorm, but that shouldn't stop you from decorating your picks from the pumpkin patch! Try painting designs with different colors and textures on your pumpkins instead. You can even print out stencils and create jack-o-lantern faces to paint on. Bring the fall flair to your room while still following the rules.
10. If you can't go to a football game
Homework, studying, and extra-curricular activities might be taking over your schedule, so much so that you can't make it to your favorite team's stadium. If you're itching to stand with the crowd and cheer for the game, tailgate at your school's sports games instead! Bring your no-bake desserts, dress in your new, or borrowed, fall clothes, and take in all autumn has to offer during the best four years of your life!