Life Hacks For The Frugal-minded College Student

College is one of the most expensive purchases you will make in your life. According to Forbes magazine, college costs could total as much as $334,000 for the class of 2021.

In addition to finding [affordable student auto insurance](https://coverhound.com/insurance-learning-center/faqs-about-car-insurance-for-college-students) with CoverHound, save money whenever and wherever you can with these great money-saving life hacks:

**Free goodies**
*Samples*
There are several companies that will send you free full-size sample products as long as you use your social media presence to review them. Stock up on cosmetics, snacks, beverages, and more!

*Organization*
Save space in that tiny dorm room closet by hanging multiple garments with soda can tabs. You can decorate and use the rest of the soda cans as small accessory holders when organizing your bathroom or desk. [Toilet paper rolls](http://tiphero.com/reuse-paper-towel-rolls/) are also a wonderful, free way to maintain a clean and organzed desk (including sorting and storing computer cables and chords neatly) and is great for DIY home décor.

Keeping your schedule organized can also help. Instead of using a planner, make use of the thousands of free apps for your phone. Take a picture of your class schedule so you’ll remember where to go without looking lost. Plus, if someone finds your phone, they’ll know exactly where to bring it to you.

*Studying*
The free SelfControl app for Mac works on a timer to block distracting web browsing. You can choose which sites to block (like social media or online streaming sites), so you can focus on your homework.

Let’s face it, campus Wi-Fi is not always the best; if you’re going to be studying somewhere, check that establishment’s Foursquare page for the Wi-Fi password, which can often be found in the comments.

**Cheap goodies**
*Thrift shopping*
Thrift stores are wonderful places to get school supplies and home furnishings, in addition to super affordable and stylish clothes.

*Multi-purpose investments*
[Binder clips](http://lifehacker.com/5927857/top-10-diy-miracles-you-can-accomplish-with-a-1-binder-clip) are a frugal-minded student’s best friend! Clip them to your desk to keep computer cables separated and prevent them from tangling; clip them to your keyboard to get the right angle; clip them to your fridge for easy stacking of bottles and other cylindrical containers.

Coffee makers are another versatile purchase; not only can you brew a pot of much-needed caffeine, but also boil hot dogs or cook pasta. What more could you need?

**Student discounts**
Always ask if a business offers a student discount; you’re working hard to get an education and many businesses want to reward you for, or at least support you in, that.

*Public Transit*
Many cities, like Chicago and Miami, offer discounted public transportation rates for full-time college students. Be sure to ask your school or local transit authority about your transit options.

*Automakers*
[General Motors](http://www.chevrolet.com/college-student-discounts.html) (Chevrolet/Buick/GMC) offers discounts to students. Even better, you can combine them with any current offer, so shop the major sales around Labor Day, Black Friday, Memorial Day, and the 4th of July.

*Insurance Providers*
Parents of college students may get a discount on auto, health, and other forms of insurance if their child is in school. Young people also can benefit from getting an education. Student auto insurance is definitely another expense that’s stressful to think about. The good news is that insurers offer discounts to students who are performing well in school.

*Food*
Lots of restaurants offer 10-20 percent off or free items for students, which may not help you lose that pesky freshman 15, but your wallet will certainly thank you.

*Entertainment*
Spotify, the music streaming service that is likely the soundtrack to your study and party sessions, offers Spotify Student for half the cost of their regular premium membership. You can also score discounted movie tickets and museum admission by flashing your student ID at the box office.

*Technology*
Tech companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Dell offer students and teachers special deals on their products, so you’ll be armed with the latest gear at a more affordable price.

Find even more [student discounts here](https://www.giftcardgranny.com/blog/student-discounts/).

It never hurts to save, especially when it’s your time, money, and stress. Keep the above tricks in mind and enjoy a little room in that wallet or purse.