Best Ways To Save On College Needs

Whether your child is off to college this year or next, you are thinking about the needs. There are a lot of things a new student needs aside from their supplies list for classes. There are tons of commercials and ads on bedding, laptops, and mini-fridges. When is the right time to buy? How do you know if you are saving money? Here are some of my recommendations.

Laptops Are Their Friend

All college students need a laptop. It doesn’t have to be fancy or loaded with features. The need lies in being able to type papers, take notes, and do online course work. Look for laptops that fill their need first. Spring and late summer are usually the best time of year to find good deals. Another tip is to ask if they will sell a floor model. These are the ones that have been on display. They may not include a manual for the laptop, but that is easy to get online. I was able to buy a $300 laptop for $150 because it was a floor model. Do get an extended warranty. All sorts of things can happen during the year and you want that insurance.

Bedding They Will Love

Finding affordable bedding can be difficult. My first recommendation is Goodwill and thrift stores. You can find unique looks at very reasonable prices. Take into consideration where the school is. If your Floridian student is heading to NYU, you will need a heavy blanket. That can be hard to find in Florida and a trip online may be in order. If you have a friend who has a college student, look for package deals that you can split between the kids. Not all kids use the loose sheet and another one can use it as a fitted.

Are Fridges and Microwaves Necessary?

The short answer is yes. What it boils down to is space. College dorms aren’t all that spacious and rarely do you have your own room. If you were able to tour a room, great! It gives you an idea of the space and where they can store it. Spring and summer are great times to look for microwaves and fridges. You may want to get a toaster oven instead of microwave. They are smaller and can heat up food easy.

Always Ask For Help

It never hurts to hit up friends and family for some support. Especially before graduation. Make a list of what your student needs and share it. You never know when someone may have a mini fridge that they can give you. Some people will be kind enough to buy some brand-new bedding in the students’ favorite color. Think of it as a college necessity registry.

The Tried And True

No matter how you’re paying for supplies, look for used and inexpensive. A great time for school supplies needs is during the back to school sales. Textbooks are on all sorts of sites for much less than new prices. Be sure to check the version and make sure it’s the correct one.

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