We all love to shop, right? Or maybe you don’t, but still, we all need to spend money here and there, whether it’s on experiences or goods. However, as college students, it can often be hard to manage a budget, make financially wise decisions, and still treat ourselves once in a while. That’s why you should NOT miss out on shopping at the lowest price possible, while buying better-quality items and getting as much savings through coupons, bundles, and cashback as you can!
Here are some ways you can shop while saving money and get free cash and rewards!
1. cASHback
Yes, that’s right! For those of you who aren’t getting cash back from every purchase—and I mean every purchase—you’re missing out on free money! Now, I don’t mean the “get $1 for every $1,000 spent” kind of deal, but rewards that actually add up to something bigger. One way to get cash back is by using websites specifically designed for this, all with just a click. There are multiple options, like Rakuten, which offers cash back from 2% to 10% on major brands. Use my referral link to get $30 cash back when you sign up and spend $30! Other options include TopCashback and Ibotta, which even let you earn cash back on grocery trips by uploading your receipt.
The easiest way to earn cash back is through a credit card—if you can use it responsibly. Most credit cards give you cash back with specific percentages based on spending categories. Usually, this comes in the form of points that can be redeemed for gift cards, travel, or even applied to your purchases. The range is typically 1% to 5%. Some banks also offer rotating cashback deals on various brands. This is one way to help set you up for financial success.
“..the ideal number of credit cards for college students to carry is often one. One card will allow them to build credit, but keep that process manageable. With a single card, it should be easy to keep track of purchases, the balance and the due date. “
How Many Credit Cards Should a College Student Have? | Fox Business
You can even get cash back through your web browser. Browsers have programs like Microsoft Rewards and Brave Rewards (through viewing ads) in which you earn points and redeem for rewards. You can also donate to charities through search engines such as Tab for a Cause, giveWater, and Ecoasia.
2. COUPONS AND DISCOUNTS
One of the most effective ways to save money is to use coupons and shop during sales. This can be for essential items, grocery, technology, beauty, apparel, and more. By making a deliberate effort to buy things when they are NOT full price—unless you need them immediately, of course—you’ll save a lot in the long run. Waiting and buying more items during sales is a major saving hack. Big sale periods of the year will align with major holidays like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and of course, Black Friday is a great time to shop!
Take advantage of student discounts! Many companies offer student discounts on streaming services, entertainment, groceries, meal delivery, clothes, accessories, tech, and fitness. Just check the website or ask in-store to see if they offer a student discount. Additionally, Unidays is a platform that provides exclusive discounts for students across a variety of stores.
For the places you shop most often, sign up for their email list. Many brands send coupons through email or mail, and it’s an easy way to know when they’re having a sale. Couponing can seem confusing, but experts often share tips and weekly coupons for stores like CVS, Walgreens, and Target. Many people also share strategies on social media, so following these accounts can help you learn about the best deals and how to build up your savings on essentials.
3. Saving on TRAVEL
While there are many specific travel hacks based on hotels, airlines, and destinations, I will focus on some broader ones.
One of the best travel hacks is to plan your trip when flights and accommodations are the cheapest. An easy way to monitor this is through Google Flights. Simply visit their site and click on “Explore.” This feature allows you to see potential trips with flight and accommodation prices for various destinations, based on your departure location. From there, you can filter for trip duration, number of stops, and other preferences. You can also set alerts to track the prices of potential trips.
Another travel hack is to buy packages or bundles. Booking your hotel and flight together often results in significant savings. If you’re traveling for tourism, the most affordable way to visit attractions is usually by purchasing an all-inclusive pass, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your needs and budget. Companies like CityPASS, Sightseeing Pass, and Groupon offer a variety of deals.
Next time you shop, remember to maximize your savings and you’ll become a savvy shopper!