Whether you love it or hate it everyone goes back to school shopping. With clothes, shoes, books, supplies, and room decor there is so much to get and so little time to do it. When I look at the list of things I still need to get for the start of the semester, I can't help but feel overwhelmed. Back to school shopping can be stressful and not to mention expensive. So here are few pointers to help make the experience a little less dreadful and a little lighter on your pocket.
1. Tax Free Week
Tax Free Week is happening right now (In Florida) until Sunday, August 16th. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS!! On top of Back to School sales all clothing items, school supplies (like backpacks, notebooks, pens, etc.), electronics (like laptops, headphones, tablets, etc.), shoes, and accessories are tax free. Shopping during this time can help you save a ton of money.
2. Save Your Receipts
You will probably shop at many different stores over the next few weeks. Make sure you save your receipts for all of your purchases. If you find something of better quality and cheaper price somewhere else, then you can buy it and return the item you originally bought. Also, if you end up not needing certain supplies or books you can return those and get your money back. Nothing is better than putting a few extra dollars in my pocket and getting rid of stuff I don't need.
3. Meet Your Best Friend Chegg
Chegg is a website where you can rent and buy textbooks usually for a cheaper price. All you have to do is type in the ISBN or the author's name and find the textbook you need. I recommend checking your school's bookstore first for the list of textbooks you'll need and then comparing their prices with the ones on Chegg. Sometimes the bookstore will have a cheaper price but other times you can find a great deal on Chegg. Chegg isn't the only site to rent/buy textbooks so look around and search for the best deals.
4. Bulls Marketplace
If you have a Facebook and you go to USF you should be on the Bulls Marketplace page. If you go to USF and you are not on this page then you need to fix this ASAP. This page is a great way to find other students who are selling things like textbooks, mini fridges, coffee makers, bikes, and other finds for really great prices. If you can think of it you can probably find someone selling it here. You can even sell your own items if you don't need something anymore. This is a great page to check out if you need anything for your dorm or apartment but don't wish to spend a ton of money on it. Most of the items sold at Bulls Marketplace are second hand but they are still in great condition. If you are reading this and you don't go to USF, I recommend finding a marketplace at your own college. It's a great way for college kids to save money and make money.
These are just some easy ways to save some money as the start of the semester rolls around. College is expensive and we are constantly looking for ways to save a few bucks. Hopefully these tips will help you do just that!
