As one of the many broke college students in the world, I have been finding ways to save money this holiday season. I love the idea of giving but the giving truly can be done without the spending. Those four words are true... it's "the thought that counts".
1. Coupon Books
How could you go wrong? I promise your mother will not be sad with a book full of coupons from her child. It's as easy as "I'll dust" or "I'll cook dinner!" Specifically for us college folk, you can even throw in a "free hug" or "movie night" for good measure. True heartfelt things without having to pay much out of pocket.
2. A Scrapbook
Pictures say a thousand words and they don't cost a thousand dollars! Picture prints go for about 32 cents per print. Add the $5 it will cost you to buy a scrapbook and you have created a beautiful handmade sentiment with less than $20. Who's Nana doesn't want a book filled with pictures and memories of her grandkids?
3. Baked Goods
There is not one single person (at least that I know) that would not be a puddle of joy unwrapping a tupperware container filled with brownies or cookies or cupcakes or fudge. Baking is a cheap way to show some love. Although it can be time consuming, the end result is worth it.
4. Mason Cookie Jars
We don't all have time to spend a full day baking. However, we may have a couple of hours to dedicate to measuring dry ingredients into mason jars, and giving someone else the gift of baking, without even turning on the oven!
5. Free Sample Baskets
So many stores and kiosks in shopping malls actually shove free samples in your face. If you literally take them up on their free sample offers, before you know it you have fifteen small items to throw together into a themed gift basket. Thank you persistent kiosk people!
6. Re-gift
I think re-gifting things has a bad reputation. There is nothing wrong with finding a scarf you got for your birthday and didn't like but also didn't return, and giving it to someone else. Re-gifting is a beautiful money saver.
For those of you who do not have the time or energy for making gifts, buying is your only option. Don't worry, I didn't forget about you...
7. Coupons
Coupons are everywhere. College bookstores give out free books full of them for areas around the campus. Googling the word coupon comes up with 397 million results. Coupons people, coupons.
8. Shop at second-hand stores and/or yard sales
Second-hand stores are full of fun! They have everything from art to books to mugs to clothes; yard sales are full of lost treasures from basements. Who doesn't want to unwrap some lost treasure?
9. Check for sales or ask for student discounts
Clearance racks are full of items that are still very much in style. Retail stores get truckloads of clothes every week, and when two things are left on a shelf on Friday, you find them on the clearance rack Monday morning. Many stores also offer discounts to people with a current college ID. They may not advertise it, but when you ask at the front desk, you will
10. Gift Cards
Buy someone their next cup of coffee or a part of their dinner. Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, local restaurants, a small amount of money put out and still putting a smile on someones face.
Keep in mind too this holiday season, a gift can be a visit. Remember to visit and hug your loved ones; life is short.
