With spring break coming up in less than two weeks, many USC students will be scrambling to save every dollar possible. In order to enjoy a well-deserved week of fun and relaxation in March, use these tips to cut down on spending and maximize your budget for this spring break.
Skip Starbucks
Despite the common stereotype, this tip doesn’t just apply to basic white girls. Starbucks is easy and conveniently located on campus — thus, a highly popular stop for students daily. Convenience aside, Starbucks is extremely expensive, especially if it is an addiction one succumbs to on a daily basis. Students can save money this spring by skipping Starbucks and brewing their coffee at home. Investing in a cheap but sturdy to-go mug and store brand coffee can and will save you a bundle.
Dine in
Whether you’re a Chipotle addict or a Cookout lover, the cost of dining out adds up. Skipping a late-night fast food trip will save you both money and calories. The food might be delicious, but spending your money on a burger by the beach on spring break definitely sounds a lot better. Cooking at home can be a fun, cheap and healthy option for students and if you’re an underclassmen, it’s a good way to finally get some cooking skills. If you can’t fight the urge to dine out, spare your credit card by eating at a place that takes Carolina Cash such as Moe’s or Domino’s.
Utilize your student I.D.
If you have to buy new clothes this spring for an interview or other formal event, ask a store employee if they provide a student discount. This is an easy way to save that people often forget to take advantage of. Some retailers might take anywhere from 10 to 20 percent off the price of something if you present your CarolinaCard at checkout. J.Crew, Goodwill and H&M are just a few of the many places which offer student discounts.
Sell your designer clothes
Donating one’s old clothes is always a nice thing to do, but if you’re strapped for cash this spring, you can make some extra money by selling gently used designer clothing. Sites like eBay, Poshmark and Tradesy are all popular and secure ways to sell possessions online. If you need cash quick and you have access to transportation, Plato’s Closet on Two Notch Road is a popular store that will pay you for gently used designer items.
Carpool or walk to class
Between paying for parking tickets and paying for gas, driving to class can be pricey. Take advantage of Columbia’s gorgeous spring weather by walking to class. If you live far from campus, carpool with a friend or make use of the shuttle system to save yourself the hassle of parking as well as some cash.