As a junior in college, already I’m aware about the hardships that come with money in this stage of life. Whether it’s having to pay bills or decide whether it’s a good idea to eat out. Money is a struggle for all us college students. Student loan debt is crawling slowly behind us. But at the same time, as college students, we want to spend the time we have with what we have. Although, that doesn’t mean you gotta go broke for it. Us college students, gotta spend out money wisely. I’m a victim to stupid splurges. Although, when it comes to shopping for clothes. Pinching a few bucks is worth it.
So, then how do I shop as a broke college student?
1.Create a budget
First things first is to set a budget. As a college student, expenses are already a headache. Especially in the beginning of the semester. You have to worry about books, food, school supplies, etc. And if you’re a commuter like me, then gas comes in to play HEAVILY. Let’s not forget to mention that some of us have actually bills to pay. This all can just chomp away at your bank account real quick. So setting a doable budget is a great start. Lay out your expenses and find out how much extra money you have to spend.
Personally, I try not go over $50-$75 spent on clothes per month. Of course, I don’t buy clothes every month. I don’t need that much. But it is set aside just in case. And if I don’t spend that money on clothing. Then the smart college student thing to do is to save ot towards something else. Something more important…. like Chipotle. Trust me, it works and helps a lot in the long run. Now I know that seems like such a little amount, but with the next tips you’ll get your moneys worth.
2.Understand "want" vs "need"
You know those impulse buys that you do every now and then? Yeah, those need to chill. I’ll be honest I am a victim to impulse buying too, but I’m also indecisive. These random splurges can add up. All of a sudden, you went to Target for some eyeliner and left with a $32 jean jacket, two $12 dresses, and a new candle. Right then and there went all of my $50 for that month. When you’re shopping and something catches your eye ask yourself these questions first:
Will I regret buying this tomorrow morning?
If I buy this will it hurt my wallet?
Is the price worth it?
If I could buy it once, could I buy it twice?
Can I find this somewhere else for a cheaper price?
And finally, the most important question: Do I need it?
If you say yes, to the question above then ask: Why do I need it?
If you your why is “It looks pretty” or “I love the scent” or anything general about the item, then put it back. Your answer should be specific and have actual reasoning behind it. Especially put the item back if you can’t think of a reason. No need to hurt yourself in the long run because you so desperately wanted those cute boots. As a college student, you are going to have to decide on many wants vs needs. It’s either splurge on some new Air Forces or Converse. Or buy those groceries that you need for the dorm. That is the tough part about this time. College is already expensive so putting your priorities straight is a lesson that is not just needed now. But also later in life as well. Better to start now than struggle later.
3.Don't buy new textbooks! (unless you have to)
What most people forget to tell us college students when we enter college is that textbooks are expensive. Not just $30-$50 dollars. But some can range to even $300 dollars. Which can really hurt your bank account when you have to buy books for 5 classes. The best way to save money with textbooks is to not buy new. Unless you really have to. First things first, don’t buy your textbooks early. I know you want to be the good student and get your supplies in order. But if you buy your textbook early you can risk wasting money. Some professors either will provide a pdf of the textbook. Or they just won’t have you buy it at all. If you do need the textbook then first check around to see if you can find a free pdf. This will save you so much money in the long run.
Another way of saving money as a college student with textbooks is to rent. Chegg is the more known sight for renting textbooks ,but they can get expensive. Amazon (as much as we don’t want to admit) has great prices for renting textbooks. I was able to find my $100 dollar textbook for rent at $44 dollars. Now if your textbook can’t be found anywhere else ,but the university store then you’re gonna have to spend that money. But go through all your options first before entering in that credit card info.
4.Sales are your best friend in college
Let’s be honest here. Who doesn’t love a good sale?
When it comes to shopping on a budget, sales are your saving grace. Around the time from mid-November to end of January are the solid times to shop. As well as back to school season which is end of July to mid September. All stores are having their end of the year sales. Getting rid of old styles to make room for the new shipments. That’s where clearance comes in.
Always look for the clearance sales. Some stores have the extra something percent off whatever is marked down. That right there is a steal! If you’re a sneaker head or into Vans and Converse like me then those BOGO (buy one, get one) sales are a gift from heaven. The best time of the year to go shopping for sales are during the holidays and back to school. Sometimes even towards the end of certain seasons. Take advantage of the tax-free weekends (if you have any where you live).
Although, if you’re thinking of heading to the mall to snag some deals, I suggest going early in the morning and not on a weekend. Especially around Corona time, if you’re like me, large crowds give you anxiety. Head to the store in the morning as soon as it opens are an hour after that. The weekdays also have less people regardless and the store will be less messy, so easy shopping for you!
5. Take advantage of the college campus amenities
You’re paying for it anyway! Unless you are boujie and can afford it, there is no reason to go get a paid gym membership. The point of either living on campus/commuting is to have the college experience. And apart of that is using the campus to it’s fullest. For example, this semester I wanted to try and work out more. So, the best thing I thought of was using the campus rec. Yes, it’ll be filled with college students ,but oh well. It’s in the tuition anyway ,so might as well use it. Same goes with the library and any other amenaties that your campus has.
6.Buy in bulk!
If you are one of the college students living on campus or in an apartment. This tip is major for you. Buying in bulk is mainly seen as splurging and expensive. But when you share items with roommates, buying in bulk saves you money in the long run. By buying in bulk you don’t have to go out every two weeks or so to stock up. Just buy once and depending on your habits. The supplies will last you a month or two. Eventually, the money you would’ve spent will add up and your bank account will thank you.
If you are able to, go to your nearest Costco or Sams club. Or wherever you can go buy bulk. Apply for their membership and take advantage of the bulk prices. Just like the tip before, use the sales to your advantage. “But what if I don’t need it in bulk?” Then don’t purchase it. Bulk is for heavily used items such as toilet paper, breakfast items, cleaning supplies, etc. If you don’t use it in a daily or weekly basis then it isn’t meant to be bought in bulk.
7.Don't be afraid to thrift
In recent years, thrifting has become on trend, but even if it wasn’t. Thrifting can save you a lot of money. It can also help if you’re going for a certain aesthetic to achieve whether it’s 90’s grunge, Y2k, Boho , Art Ho or Cottage core. It’s a perfect and fun way of finding those unique center pieces to your outfits. Here is a list of some cool thrift stores here in Houston:
Pavement Houston, 1657 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006 @pavement_houston on Instagram
They are known for their eccentric pieces that range for all aesthetics. Personally, they are my favorite to shop at. You can go in and trade in your clothes for cash as well. Just when you walk in, you’re met with many different styles. If I had to rate it on how much it would break the bank, I would put it at $/$$. They are in Montrose which is the known hotspot for thrift shops.
The Leopard Lounge, 1657 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006 @leopardloungexo on Instagram
Right attached to Pavement Houston, the Leopard Lounge is a cute, little kitschy shop that houses clothing from as late as the 00s all the way up to the 50s. If you’re looking for some vintage clothing for a costume or just as a designer piece this is your spot. I would rate it at $/$$ on breaking the bank. Of course, some items are priced higher because of how authentic they are, but it’s worth the price. If you’re a college student who has their own apartment, thrifting furniture is a great way to save money. Some of the furniture you will find are easily fixable or in a great condition to be used. Not everything has to be new and from IKEA.
For those of you that don’t care for the “look” perse, here are some thrift stores that are more local:
- Goodwill
- Salvation Army
- Chain or Family-run thrift stores
8.Take advantage of those college student discounts
Did you know that certain stores have a discount for students? Either go online or visit the store itself and ask one of the retail associates if they have any. You’d be surprised at how many stores have a student discount. Usually, they can range up to 15% off your entire purchase. Along with student discounts, sign up for sites like Unidays or Studentbeans to look for stores that have great deals. Always look for those College deals that electronic stores have like Best Buy.
Stores that have student discounts (check in to each store more for specific details):
- Hulu
- Forever 21
- Adidas
- H&M
- Spotify
- Converse
…and many more!
THANK YOU FOR READING !
Money is tight and finding a job that pays well is even harder. Hopefully these tips are helpful this semester. Or even for the rest of your college career.
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I used the app “Fetch Rewards” and “Ibotta” to scan my receipts whenever I went grocery and dorm shopping. It adds up pretty fast so you can redeem gift cards for the things you want to get, but don’t have spare money for it !
You got me at gift cards, I’ll need to download those. Thanks for the helpful comment!