With spring break approaching fast, it’s time to start saving up money. I’ll be the first to admit, I haven’t exactly been the best at saving money in the past (I was a big impulse shopper), but lately, I’ve been learning to budget my money and earn extra cash in easy ways. Like many college students, I’m on a budget and have important things to save up for (ahem, study abroad). But that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy myself every once in a while.
Spring break is the time to relax and treat yourself for a week. Whether that be a shopping spree, a vacation, or a day trip with friends, you’re going to want to save up so you can enjoy yourself come spring break and do something you normally wouldn’t. I’ve compiled a list of the best ways to save up for spring break, so you can treat yourself to a fun time without worrying about money.
- Set up direct deposit.
-
If you know yourself and want to avoid the temptation of having excess funds available, set up your paycheck to have a portion directly deposited into your savings each week. This way, the money is automatically saved and you don’t even have to think about it.
Another great option is to download a savings app, like Digit, that automatically transfers a set amount of money to your savings when you can afford it. This is great for out of sight out of mind; if the money isn’t in your checking account, you won’t be tempted to spend it.
- Cut out the unnecessary expenses.
-
That $6 venti latte you get every morning? Maybe try cutting it down to once or twice a week, or only when you really need it. Or better yet, make your own coffee at home. This small change may not seem like it’ll help much, but as the weeks go by, you’ll find yourself with extra money you didn’t even realize you were missing out on before!
The same logic can be applied to other areas of your life. Cancel your expensive gym membership and take advantage of the free options many colleges offer or hit the trails and run outside instead. Skip the fancy dinner and cook at home instead. When you cut back on these unnecessary expenses, it’s amazing how much you realize you didn’t really need them in the first place.
- Shop smarter.
-
If you’re a fellow shopaholic, you know the struggle of wanting to buy new clothes but also wanting to save money. You don’t have to stop shopping completely, you just have to shop smarter.
Check the sale section first when shopping or visit off-price retailers like Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Nordstrom Rack. You can save so much money on amazing finds that you would’ve spent a fortune on otherwise (real talk: I found $100 Free People jeans at Marshall’s for $16 last week). If you’re lucky enough to be in a city, another great option is to visit sample sales that sell excess merchandise from designer brands at a fraction of the cost. Thrift shops are also a great place to find good-quality, discounted clothes.
However, be careful when shopping for these discounted items. It can be easy to get caught up in the amazing price and buy tons of things you don’t actually need or want. Be sure to ask yourself if you would buy still want to buy this item even if it were full price. If the answer is no, your best bet is to hold off.
- Sell your old stuff.
-
Spend an afternoon sorting through your closet and chances are you’ll find some pieces you haven’t worn in years and probably never will again. These are perfect for reselling on websites like eBay or Poshmark. You can also take these items to a local secondhand store. The resale industry is a great way to make some extra cash you didn’t even know you had.
- Take on a side hustle.
-
Side hustles are not only a great resume builder; they’re also a great way to rake in some extra funds. Whether it’s dog-walking, babysitting, or tutoring, fill your extra time with a side hustle for an easy way to earn some extra money.
If you have a passion, try and incorporate it into your side hustle to make it a lot more fun. Start that Etsy shop you’ve always wanted to or launch your own blog. No matter what it is, finding a way to combine your passion with an income will leave you making money while loving what you’re doing. What’s that old saying again? If you love your job you’ll never work a day in your life. Something like that.
With these simple tips, you’re well on your way to saving up for spring break. No matter what you choose to do, it’s all about making small changes that add up to significant change, not about overthrowing your entire life. Use the tips that work for you.