5 Ways to Save Money When Furnishing Your College Dorm

So, you are moving out of your parents’ house and moving into a dorm this summer. Not only is it an exciting time, but you are probably ready to be living on your own. Before you move, it is important that you sit down and think about all of the items you need for your dorm room as the bill for furnishing your space will start to add up quickly.

For example, you cannot move into your dorm room without a couple of sheet sets, a comforter, and pillow cases. These expenses are not usually covered by student loans and you will have to foot the bill for it, thus making it a struggle for some new college students.

Below, we will go over some ways that you can save money while still furnishing your dorm room.

1. Skip the High-End Expensive Items

While it would be nice to have the top of the line 4K HDTV with smart capabilities, do you really need it? Think about how much time you will realistically spend in your dorm room watching TV in the first place.

Some students opt out of having a TV altogether while others make do with the old box televisions. In addition, you do not necessarily want to have an expensive TV looming in your dorm room as you may have to worry about the security of it.

2. Find Out What You Can and Cannot Have

You will find that many universities and colleges do not allow you to have certain items in your dorm room. It is important for you to check with them first as you may find that many of the items you thought you needed are actually not allowed.

For instance, you may have been planning on buying a mini fridge, but the college may not allow you to have one in your room. This will save you upwards of a hundred dollars or so depending on the type you wanted to buy.

3. Find Used Items

Before you go spend your money on items at full retail price, consider looking at online trading and selling groups. You can find good deals on furniture and other items you need.

Of course, you should inspect the items before you purchase them to ensure that they are not dingy or overly used, but you will find quite a few bargains to help you save money.

4. Ask Your Friends and Family

Your friends and family will be a great resource when it comes time to decorate your dorm room. Ask them if they have any lamps, extra bedding, or other items they no longer want that you can have.

You will find that your relatives and friends are more than willing to give you some things to help you decorate.

5. Check Advertisements and Shop Deals

Stores often run sales and heavily discount their items when it gets closer to summer and time for students to do their dorm room shopping. You should scour the local ads to find out exactly what is on sale and what you can get for a discounted price.

You can save a lot of money by purchasing items that are on sale over those that are not. While you may have to wait closer to move in day to start seeing sales, at least you will keep more of your money in your pocket.

If you are going to be moving in to your dorm room soon, it is important that you gather all of the stuff you need. It can be expensive to start purchasing all of the items individually so it is wise to plan ahead and make a list of what you need.

Asking friends and family to help out with some of the things you need will save you a huge chunk of change. Remember, always shop deals at your local retail stores and consider purchasing some gently used items as well.