If you think you’re the only one with a tight budget, think again! In a recent Student Health 101 survey, 50 percent of respondents said their approximate weekly budget for social activities is 20 dollars or less, and more than 20 percent set aside 10 dollars or less. Here are some tips to keep your weekends full but cheap.
According to the survey, nearly 50 percent of students feel social pressure to spend money. Benjamin S., a sophomore at Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage, says, “I end up spending more than I intended to.”
Brielle M., a senior at University of Maryland in College Park, says, “I leave my money home. This way I don’t buy food or coffee between classes.”
For Ishaan J., a sophomore at Utah State University in Logan, coffee every morning feels like a necessity, but getting one at an upscale café isn’t. “I bought a coffee maker. It’s not the best coffee in the world but it costs a lot less,” he explains.
Here are some ideas for saving on entertainment and social activities:
Krista Lewis, a former financial aid officer at Brock University in Ontario, Canada, says, “Living on a budget can be rewarding and give you a sense of accomplishment.” Remember, not everything has a price tag, and often the most satisfying things don’t involve money at all.
Shiv is a graduate student pursuing his master’s in business administration at Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Bring a reusable bottle.
Fill it with your own drink, or take advantage of discounts for using one.
Pack your own snacks.
They’ll be cheaper and healthier than what’s available at concession stands. Just check venue policies beforehand.
