It won’t be long before college students head back to campus. Many will actually get to move into their dorms this year and begin living on their own. However, we’ve learned from experience that setting up a dorm room can easily become a pricey endeavor. This year, as your scholar sets up their home away from home, use these Dorm Money Saving Hacks to save money!
Share the Load & Communicate
Many students are now finding out who their roommate will be for the year ahead. If you have this vital piece of information, use it to your advantage. Large items like refrigerators, curtains, rugs, and coffee pots can be shared. Divide who will purchase what so you don’t end up with duplicate expenses and items
Work Your Network
One family’s cast off (like a futon or unneeded bookshelf) is a college student’s treasure. Whether you’re looking for a well loved couch or an iron, you’d be surprised what the people in your social network want to unload for free or at a much smaller cost than paying retail. Post on Facebook or send out a tweet before you hit the aisles or shop online. Free is the best price to pay.
Use Educational Discounts
College students get a plethora of discounts everywhere from restaurants to the Apple Store. Be sure to use those to your advantage when shopping for dorm gear, both large and small. In particular, be on the prowl for discounts on laptops and technology. Check out an enormous list of discounts here and another great roundup here.
Look Online for Dorm Dimensions
Scour your academic institution’s websites for all of the dorm specifics. Dimensions of the room and bathroom spaces are essential. You don’t want to buy more than you can stuff into the space. You’ll also want to get the specs on the ability to loft beds and/or store unneeded pieces of furniture. Finding out that information before Move In Day can save money and stress in the long run.
Wait to Buy Shelving & Organizational Items
Speaking of those dorm spaces, it’s wise to wait and purchase shelving and organizational items after you actually get into the physical space. Something that looks cute at home may not fit in the dorm room. Hit the local Target or Amazon to fill in the gaps after most of the move is complete instead.
Use Online Coupons & Rakuten
Big box retailers have been rolling out dorm gear for weeks already. From pillows to towels to chairs and desk organization, you’ll find more than you need in the aisles. If you’re shopping for these things, be sure to check platforms like Target Circle for coupons. Select customers (I did, yay!) $15 off $75 online and in store this week. And my thrifty college daughter wanted me to remind you to use a cashback site like Rakuten too to stretch your savings further.
Those first few days of the semester will be here before we know it! Maximize the days remaining to keep from overspending so your academic can begin the year on solid footing!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
