Ahh, college. One of the first things you think of when you hear the word "college" (other than stressing over finals and drinking way too much coffee) is being broke. I know, I know: You don't have to be broke in college. People looking from the outside in don't realize that not only is college expensive but there are little things along the way that you HAVE to pay for, like a coffee when you got 2 hours of sleep or doing something to get out of your own head for a while. However, most of us know that it's hard to #TreatYoSelf when your meals for the forseeable future are all instant ramen.
But saving money in college doesn't have to be hard and you don't have to give up that Pumpkin Spice Latte to save a few bucks. Here are some money-saving apps free to download on the App Store that can help you save (or make) a few bucks!
1. Ibotta
This app has literally saved me - I cashed in my return just last week to help put brakes on my boyfriend's car and there was no way we could have managed it without the cumulative savings from this app. Ibotta gives you cash back for things you already buy. Though in small quantities (usually ranging from 25 cents to $2.00), it adds up and gives you access to money you didn't have before. You can transfer money you've saved from the app directly to a PayPal account and then to your bank account. Boom! Instant money. You're welcome.
2. GasBuddy
This app is AWESOME. Though simple, this app lets you plug in your location and view gas prices at gas stations around you so you can discover where the cheapest place to fill up is.
3. RetailMeNot
This app is awesome AND they have an online website, so you don't even have to download the actual app, Quickly and efficiently, this app allows you to view coupons for your favorite stores (online and in-person) and then download them to the app or take screenshots to use them in person!
4. RoverTown
This app shows you where you can score College Student Discounts near you and you can even set it up so that way it will notify you when you're at a location that offers a Student Discount. Technology, amirite?
5. Walmart App
I know what you're thinking: Wait, what? Just hear me out for a sec.
The Walmart Savings Catcher allows you to scan your receipts and get money back in the form of a Walmart gift card if it finds any lower prices among nearby competitors (Dollar General, Kroger, etc..). So, regardless, you get the cheapest price for items you buy every day.
Happy shopping and happy saving!
