How to Live Cheaply Off-Campus

Some College students prefer living outside the campus. For one, it offers a feeling of independence since you are not bounded by the rules enforced in campus dorms.  You can go out, invite your friends, stay late without any curfew and practically do whatever you want when you want it. 

But of course, this does not go without any trade. Freedom does not come cheap. Living outside campus can be expensive as you need to worry about your daily expenses. Unlike living in a campus dorm wherein you don’t have to worry about where to get your basic necessities.

But like anything else, there are always life hacks that can help you live off-campus without spending too much money.

Create A Proper Plan

The first thing you need to do is create a budget plan. Try allocating a specific amount for every payable you have. For example, indicate how much you will spend for your groceries, transportation, and all your other necessity. It will allow you to know if you are spending too much on something and make the necessary adjustments.

Get Your Legs Moving

Now, if you plan on living outside your university, then as much as possible, try to find a place closer to campus. Instead of riding an Uber every day, you can try and walk it out and also use it as your time to exercise. It is suitable, especially when the season is perfect for walking. You can save at least half of your travel expenses in doing this and keep your body in shape at the same time.

Don’t Splurge On Your Furniture

There is no point in spending too much money on furniture since most of your time would be spent at school than your apartment. Instead of buying brand new ones, opt for other alternatives such as those from thrift stores that sell furniture at a fraction of the cost. 

You don’t need to spend too much to make your place your own. It would be better if you try and get multifunctional furniture that can give you the functionality of two pieces of furniture for the price of one.

Cook Your Own Meal

It is very tempting to order takeouts and dine outside, but doing it every day is expensive. Instead, try cooking your meal. You can do bigger portions that can last you days using the same amount of money you pay when you eat outside. Cook a meal that can last you two days at the most.

Having the same dinner for a week can get monotonous, so it is better to try having variations. If cooking is not your forte, then there is always instant ramen to the rescue.

Coupons Are Not Just Your Aunt’s Best Friend

Getting groceries is a normal routine when you try to leave off-campus. Unfortunately, the cost could skyrocket if you don’t monitor it properly.  That is why you need to create a list of what you will be buying and use coupons to lessen the amount you have to pay. You can then allocate the money you saved to pay for other things you need.

Maximize Your Time Going To The Grocery Store

When you are getting your groceries, then it is better to stockpile and buy in bulk. It would eliminate the time needed to go to the store, saving you precious time. Time is money, so time saved is money saved as well.

Minimize Your Unnecessary Expenses

Choose only the important services you need like an internet connection. Other expenses such as cable tv are unnecessary since you’ll be spending more time studying than watching television. Also, if you have the internet, then there is no need to add another service as you can use your mobile devices to watch a movie or get the latest news.

Keep in mind that living outside your campus might sound fun, but you must be disciplined to pull it off. But what is good about doing this is that you can train yourself as early as now on how you will live your life after graduation. In addition, living off-campus would give you a sense of responsibility that can help you become a better person.