If you’ve recently returned to school, you might be realizing that your previous spending habits are no longer sustainable. Education can significantly impact your finances, especially with added expenses and possibly reduced income. It’s smart to develop new spending habits under these circumstances.
This week, we’ve put together a brief list of the best money-saving tips for students. Check out our advice and share your own top tips for saving money in the comments below!
- Maximize Student Discounts: As a student with a valid ID, you have access to discounts on a variety of goods and services. Simply ask about them! For instance, the Student Price Card (SPC) offers 10-15% savings at various stores and food outlets across Canada.
- Cook at Home: Learning to cook and actually doing it can save you money while attending school. Ready-to-eat meals and fast food are not only more costly in the long run, but they’re also less healthy.
- Buy School Supplies in Bulk: Retailers like Costco and Superstore offer school supplies in bulk. While it may seem costly initially, having an ample supply of items like printer paper can be a lifesaver, especially when deadlines loom.
- Be Cautious with Credit Cards: Navigating credit can be tricky. If you struggle with spending management, be careful. However, if you’re diligent with payments, credit cards can offer benefits like points for future necessities.
- Distinguish Needs from Wants: Finally, it’s crucial to differentiate between what you need and what you want. When living on a tight budget, prioritize your needs. Once you secure a great job later, you’ll have more flexibility to indulge in your wants.
Image courtesy of Duckiemonster, Flickr.
