If you're like me, you're a broke college student trying to buy Christmas presents, make bills, and save up for big events like Spring Break or after graduation. Here are a few little tricks I use to save a little money.
1. Save all of your change.
My roommate and I save every cent we have. Notice I said every cent. My cash gets immediately deposited into the bank, but all of the change I collect from waitressing, or find throughout my day gets put into a gallon Ball Jar. We have it half way full already and are planning on using it as spending money in Mexico.
2. Use Ebates.
Ebates is one of the greatest discoveries I've made this year. They actually pay you to shop. Download the app, and each store or website will give you back a percentage of the money you spend. This is really helpful while you're Christmas shopping. Every three months they'll send you a check with the money you've earned back.
3. Plato's Closet.
I know this isn't new, but it has helped me out a lot lately when I'm strapped for cash. Dig through your old clothes, shoes, accessories, movies, and even books, and they'll give you cash for the things they can take. (Warning: They are typically a little picky, no fading, no outdated styles, and no scratches on the movies.)
4. Shop Goodwill.
No, Goodwill is not for poor people. It is actually a gift from the shopping Gods. If you have the patience to walk around for an hour or two, you can actually find some great things. Save a little money, and give it a shot. Some of my favorite clothes are from the GW.
5. Sell your plasma.
Warning: This is not for everyone. You have to be in good health, and be able to stand needles. Biolife will give you up to 70 dollars a week for two donations, and sometimes they'll give you a bonus for so many donations or for referring a friend.
6. Vacation cheap.
I know, I know. This is not saving money. This is actually spending a lot of money and having an insane amount of buyer's remorse because you could have paid your rent or in some cases, bought a car. But everyone should have some travel experience, and your early 20s is an excellent time to do it. I have a friend who stayed at a hostile in San Diego for a week. She only spent 600 dollars the entire time. Hostiles are an awesome way to get to know some interesting people, and live cheap. Another idea is to vacation somewhere where your dollar is worth more. We're going to Puerta Vallarta for Spring break, and are saving a lot of money by not only booking early, but also because the US dollar is worth 20 pesos.
7. Cut back on the little luxuries.
It's always nice to be able to get your nails done or go tanning, but these things add up fast. Save some money and have a manicure party at home. Cancel your gym membership, and work out with some friends in your living room. (You probably also have a rec center on your college campus or a gym in your apartment complex.) Skip the Starbucks and make a delicious coffee drink at home. We bought vanilla Latte foam from Walmart, and my morning coffee tastes like it's from a coffee shop.
8. Stop buying food on campus.
I know it's taco day. And that is hard to pass up, but when I started buying my lunches in bulk at the store, I saved a ton of money. Unless you have a meal plan, I highly recommend bringing your lunch with you. Rev Wraps are super healthy, come in different flavors, and are only $1.50 at Walmart. Walmart also sells individually wrapped salads that are perfect for being on the go.
9. Set a gift price limit.
This is something a lot of people don't do. I know you want to shop for everyone, but set a limit within your friend group or with your siblings. It shouldn't matter how much you spend on them. It really is the thought that counts.
