Budget-Friendly Dorm Room Essentials Every Student Needs
There are so many things to buy when your kid transitions into college life. Even after all the shopping and moving is done, your young student may notice that a few items are missing as they get settled into dorm life. Certain purchases can make the dorm experience a little more enjoyable, and even enhance your kid’s academic performance.
If you’re looking for affordable ways to support your student, consider some of the following budget-friendly items for their home away from home.
Remember, you can save money on almost everything you buy with the help of coupon codes found online. These coupons can help you cut the costs of anything from basic office supplies to essential tech devices.
Search for coupons before making any purchase, so you can get the most out of your budget. You may even be able to find cash back opportunities at some of your favorite budget-friendly retail stores!
Dependable Tech Devices
Fast, reliable tech devices are essential for campus life. Make sure your student is set up for success with a dependable laptop and a good cell phone. Not only are these devices important for taking notes, studying, and writing papers, they keep students connected to their peers and provide a valuable source of stress relief.
Make sure your student’s phone will be able to handle all of the useful apps they need for organizing their schedule, scanning class notes, studying for exams, and keeping track of homework.
The best phone purchase is one that will last for the next few years, so check out new models within your budget. Some service providers, like Verizon, offer money towards the purchase of a new phone with unlimited data plans. These unlimited plans can help your kid avoid overage charges—and keep in touch with you!
Organizational and Storage Tools
Dorm rooms are tight, so storage space is a luxury that often fills up quickly. Try to think of affordable ways to maximize the storage space in your student’s room. Multi-use furniture, mobile storage carts, vertical organizers, and stacking bins are just a few low-cost room organization solutions.
Bed risers can give your kid access to under-the-bed storage with the addition of a few large plastic tubs for holding seasonal clothing, old textbooks, and extra bedding. You’ll be able to find most of these storage basics at a good price from major retailers like Target and Amazon.
Mini Fridge
A mini-fridge can provide several benefits to dorm residents. Having a small fridge in the dorm room will give your student access to fresh, healthy food whenever they need a nutritious snack.
According to College Life Blog, a mini-fridge can even help your kid save money because they won’t have to rely on the campus dining hall for all of their meals. If your family is on the hook for the dorm utility bills, look for an energy-efficient model and teach your kid how to reduce its energy consumption.
Cleaning Supplies
Dorm rooms harbor all kinds of nasty germs. Keeping a dorm room clean is important for staying healthy and preventing illnesses that can lead to missed classes. Pick up some disinfectant wipes that your kid can use to clean keyboards, doorknobs, light switches, and food prep surfaces. To save money and keep harsh chemicals out of the stuffy space, try making some DIY disinfectant spray!
Sleep-Enhancing Products
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, good quality sleep plays a crucial role in the academic success of college students. A dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment is fundamental to a good night's sleep.
Unfortunately, dorm rooms tend to be the complete opposite! Help turn your student’s dorm room into a sleep sanctuary with comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and cooling fans. You don’t have to splurge on these items—for example, a cheap fan will double as a white noise machine to tune out disruptive sounds.
Remember, you don’t have to spend a fortune to outfit your student’s dorm room with useful essentials. When you shop, look for money-saving opportunities like coupon codes, store discounts, and budget-friendly product alternatives. Steer clear of pricey, space-hogging purchases and gimmicky gadgets. Save your money for the important things that will really make your kid feel at home.
Article Contributed by Laura Pearson