Classes will begin in just a few weeks, which means bank accounts will be low. While we can’t save much money on certain things, there are alternatives to buying most of what you will need for the upcoming school year.
Thrift stores
I am a strong advocate for second hand/resale/thrift stores because of how cheap things are. Go into your local Goodwill and it will be easy to find most day-to-day items. There are plates, cup, pots and pans, board games and luggage all for low prices. Other thrift stores may be more centered around clothing, which is also great. If you dedicate your time to looking through the clothes, you will have a good chance at finding something you like. Not only are these stores cheap and convenient, but they also tend to push people out of their comfort zone for clothing. Try something new, create something out of what you find. My favorite thing about thrift stores is that there is usually just one of everything.
Sales at department stores
Around the time classes start back for us, school has already started for almost everyone else. Take advantage of the sales stores like Walmart and Target have. They need to get rid of the majority of school supplies they have stocked up on, so there is a good chance things will be marked down. Grab a few notebooks for your year of classes; pens and highlighters, sticky notes and index cards, the options are nearly endless.
Amazon
I am also a huge advocate for Amazon. Much of what I own has either been ordered off of Amazon or purchased in a thrift store. Amazon is essentially a store with just about everything anyone would need. You can find items from all around the world and products that are unique; there is more variety than what you could find in any department store. You can also have your package shipped to the school before classes start. All you have to do is pick it up when you arrive on campus. There is no worry about finding room to pack the items, or trying to remember whether or not you packed them.
Ask your friends
This summer, I have been clearing out boxes of stuff I don’t use anymore. Before donating anything, I reach out to my friends to see if they may find it useful. Don’t be afraid to reach out and see if anyone you know may have something that they don’t use and will be helpful to you. On the flipside, don’t be afraid to ask if any of your friends need something you’re trying to get rid of.
These shopping alternatives have helped me in the past and still help me now. No matter what, there will be certain things that are high in price. Saving a little on the things that don’t need to be expensive will make large purchases easier. Hopefully, you will have some extra spending money for the things you want, rather than need.
