7 tips for college students to save money on food

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There are ways to eat well while saving money.

Key Point

• Planning ahead gives you freedom and saves you money.
• Incorporate store-brand foods when possible. Often better than expected.
• Take advantage of free meals at school events and clubs when possible.

The rising cost of living is affecting everyone, including college students. A summary of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ consumer price index noted that in September 2022, the cost of overall food rose 11.4% year-on-year, while the cost of groceries rose 13.5%. . and a digital education blog, my e-learning world, According to recent calculations, college students are expected to spend an average of $294.06 a month on groceries and an average of $369.36 on dining out during the 2022-2023 school year. This is an average monthly total of $663.42. That’s a lot of money, but the good news is that there are ways to save on food costs that don’t involve living on ramen alone.

1. Plan ahead and don’t shop hungry

It’s usually not a good idea to go to the grocery store without a list. Twenty years ago when I was in college, I relied on paper grocery lists (in fact, I still do; I’m old and stuck in my ways). But these days, there are a variety of grocery list apps available. The notes app on your phone is also a great place to create a list.

Also, do not go shopping when you are hungry. Eat something first so you don’t go off your list to chase every mouthwatering thing that crosses the road. (I’m speaking from experience here.) By avoiding impulse purchases, you can keep some of your hard-earned cash in the bank.

2. Sign up for a savings card and check out our weekly store flyers

Nearly every grocery store offers discount cards, and it’s worth signing up to save extra money. You can also see it on the website or in the app.

3. Consider a cashback credit card

Some of the best credit cards for students offer cash back, all of which help build credit and help you reach your future financial goals. There are also credit cards that offer higher percentages on grocery spending, but many of these are aimed at people with high credit scores.

4. Try store brands

If you haven’t lived alone for a long time, you may be looking for the same food brands you grew up with. It’s a little embarrassing.It’s just not as good as the big brands I bought growing up. many years, it is about 50% cheaper. This switch may require trial and error. I had a few store branded items that were in terrible condition, but most were fine. And all are generally cheaper than the big brands.

5. Be vegetarian (at least sometimes)

Meat is expensive and the methods of its production are often terrible for the environment. I can do it.

These days, there are plenty of high-protein, meatless options out there.I hate to mention peanut butter anymore, but there’s a reason peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a staple. Another important staple to keep on hand is frozen edamame, or soybeans. They can be microwaved and are delicious, making them the perfect addition to a college staple, ramen. (I never said to avoid them completely.

6. Rely on technology

There are some great and useful food apps that can help you get cheap groceries and other groceries. A bonus here is that some of these apps partner with stores and restaurants to ensure that extra food is sold, so it may also help prevent food waste. According to the organization Feeding America, 108 billion pounds of food is wasted each year. So this is a win not only for your personal finances, but also for reducing waste.

7. Find free food on campus

OK, this is not a practical everyday tip. Unless you’re roaming the college campus looking for cold pizza leftovers from a faculty gathering. However, a great many campus events offer free meals. For example, at my school, we had semi-regular barbecues on our quads where we could win a free hot dog or cheeseburger.

You may also be able to join clubs and academic programs that occasionally offer free meals. One of the best free meals I had as an undergraduate was the annual Honors Program dinner with free Chinese takeout. tonsso we all had to take leftovers home.

Being alone for the first time can be scary and exciting, but feeding yourself is one of those adult responsibilities that makes you miss a free (for you) dinner at your parent’s house, at least sometimes. This is also a good time to learn how to budget and account for your spending in your life. .