As each semester rolls around, new classes always make for an exciting time. Beyond being back with your friends and returning to your college campus, your academic life seems electrifying for a while until it comes to the one thing we all dread: buying textbooks. Outrageously priced and often unused, the textbooks often put a damper both your wallet and your semester outlook. But if you are smart about this setback and utilize the following places, you’ll save hundreds that you will be able to use on a night out with friends or fall/spring break trip.

1. Chegg.com

My personal favorite, Chegg is an online textbook rental site that has generally given me the cheapest option on books. But that’s not all. It also has homework solutions, online tutors and internship opportunities available as well. However, I mostly look forward to the box full of freebies that Chegg sends along each semester. Keep the box and shipping is free when you return them at the end of the semester!

2. Amazon.com

If you have an Amazon Prime membership, Amazon may be the most useful site when it comes to saving money on shipping. Free two-day shipping is hard to beat, especially when you are already two weeks into the semester and three chapters behind.

3. Bigwords.com

The structure of BigWords is a really helpful starting point, as it provides you with price comparisons for many textbook rental places. Whether renting, buying or selling, BigWords allows you to utilize every single dollar.

4. Bookbyte.com

For those courses that are either short or a series of two or more classes, Bookbyte is the site for you. In addition to the great savings, Bookbyte allows you to choose how long you would like to rent (30, 60, 90, or 150 days – with an option to extend). Shipping is free for orders over $49, with the option to expedite your books for only an added $2.

5. BookFinder4u

Though not a place to purchase your textbooks, BookFinder4u can help you quickly compare prices across many stores. Using this site from the start will save you both time and money, and who doesn’t love that?

While all of these textbook sites are extremely useful, don’t forget to shop around. Sure, it’s easier to buy your books from one place to save the hassle of shopping around, but just think of the new outfit, video game, or concert ticket you can buy because you were a thrifty college student. Also, consider how long you'll need the book for and whether you'll need an access code for online homework. Sometimes, though not the happiest for your wallet, it is more efficient and ultimately cost-saving to buy a book, selling it back after you are done. No matter what you choose, do your research wisely. Happy searching!