As college girls, coffee is vital to our success! Whether it’s starting our day or writing that brutal paper, coffee is always there to get us through. However, such necessities can be expensive, so here are seven spending methods that will keep you from going broke this term!
1. Make it at home.
Buying your own beans is the easiest way to save money on coffee. $10 spent on coffee at a grocery store can last weeks. This is especially useful if you have roommates that share your addiction! The only catch is getting out of bed ten minutes earlier to make it (but it’s so worth it). When in need of an extra kick, add a piece of chocolate to your fresh cup.
2. Keurig users: Buy a personal K cup.
If you own a Keurig, buying a refillable K cup will change your life. It will help you use those coffee beans you bought, portion out single servings, and reduce your trash.
3. Invest in a travel mug.
Many coffee shops (especially on campus) offer a discount like 20-25 cents off your drink for bringing a reusable mug. It may not sound like much at first, but it definitely adds up! It will also allow you to have your coffee on the go while being environmentally friendly.
4. Buy drip coffee.
Can’t resist the lure of the coffee shop vibe? Buy drip coffee. They likely have a selection of milks and creamers to add. Still craving that vanilla latte? Ask the barista to put a couple pumps of vanilla in your cup. The price difference between drip coffee with syrup and a vanilla latte is significant. It’s not quite the same quality, but desperate times call for desperate measures!
5. Stamp cards.
Always ask coffee shops if they have stamp cards! They won’t always ask you up front if you would like to start one. If you have two cards because you forgot you already started one, ask the barista to combine the cards. If you’re a regular, that free drink will surely come sooner rather than later!
6. Buy a large and split it.
Grabbing a cup with a friend? Buy a large together and split it. Whoever gets treated this time will owe the other next time. It’s a good way to save money and ensure another visit with a friend!
7. Ask the barista.
Odds are, someone who works at a coffee shop loves talking about coffee and shares the financial struggles of an addiction! It’s their job to know the drinks and different combinations of flavors. Don’t be shy and ask the barista how you can get the same flavor for a cheaper price!
Use these tips to help you save money this term without sacrificing your love for coffee! Have any other tips? Let us know in the comments!