Each person has their own reasons for always trying to save money, but the bankrupt college student is one of the most prominent stereotypes and would likely benefit from some good budgeting advice. If you’re paying for college on your own or just have less money to spend than you used to have while in school, keeping these budgeting tips in mind can help you save a little or a lot, depending on how tight you are with finances. In any case, these are great tips for anyone going to school.

It’s inevitable: your teachers require you to have access to one or three textbooks to pass the course. If you’ve ever made the mistake of buying directly from the university bookstore, and if you’ve ever bought a new textbook from the aforementioned bookstore, you know how you can increase the cost. Being in a bookstore that suits your college also includes trying very hard to resist the urge to buy a journal with the printed mascot for each of your classes, as well as a pen to match your school’s colors and logo. It’s much better to search for your textbooks through a textbook rental service that will allow you to keep the books until after your final exams, or search the internet for forums where students sell their old textbooks cheaply. money. If you made the mistake of buying a very expensive textbook in the past, those forums are also a great way to ditch an unnecessary book and get some money. Some students might even be willing to swap textbooks.

If you live on campus, you probably better plan to be car-free. Car care can get expensive if you have very low cash flow, and the price of gas these days is outrageous anyway. Walking or biking around campus is healthier for you and cheap (if you have to buy a bike) or free. You can also avoid the expensive parking passes that your university probably requires. If you don’t have a bike, can’t afford one, and walking is a hassle on campus, learn about public transportation systems. They are relatively cheap and sometimes free if they are on campus.

Are you the type of person who feels the need to be entertained all the time? Saving money doesn’t mean you have to give up entertainment. Take advantage of campus activities like music concerts and student plays. Many of these activities are cheap or free, and in turn, you are supporting your classmates. Getting involved with an organization on campus can also guarantee inexpensive entertainment and sometimes even food!

Knowing how to get a penny here and there will help you avoid an empty wallet while in school, but these tips can also become best practices for life after college. If you are having trouble finding money to pay for college, read about the financial options you can have as a college student.