Your 2021 College Freshman Shopping List
The fall semester is just around the corner, and so are college expenses. Even if you've got tuition, fees, and housing covered, there are other costs to consider to ensure your college freshman is ready for their first year away from home. Figuring out how to pay for these expenses now could help you avoid overpaying for them later.
Here are six items first-year college students might need to add to their school shopping list:
1. Technology
Laptops, printers, and software are just a few technology-related items your college freshman will likely need before they start school this fall. Depending on their housing situation, they may also need to pay for internet services. You can keep costs down by buying student versions of software, selecting a lower-speed Wi-Fi service, and taking advantage of student discounts on other technology purchases.
2. Personal Expenses
It's easy to forget that your college freshman will need funds to pay for clothing, toiletries, medications, and other expenses when they're away from home. If they're moving to a different climate, they'll need an updated wardrobe sooner rather than later. Stock up on other items, like toothpaste and deodorant, whenever you come across a sale. Or save money by buying in bulk and sharing costs with another college-bound student.
3. Travel Costs
How will you get your student and their belongings to school before the first day of class? Will your child come home for the holidays or during scheduled breaks? How much will it cost? Factor these estimates into your list of school expenses. Browse online travel sites now so you'll know how much to budget for roundtrip tickets.
4. Dorm Room Essentials
Most dorm rooms come with built-in beds, desks, shelves, and mirrors. Your college freshman will likely want to put their stamp on this blank slate. This might include bringing items from home or buying a few things from a decor store. Either way, you must budget for sheets, blankets, pillows, and possibly a mini-fridge and microwave. Keeping easy meals on hand could help keep dining hall costs down.
5. Transportation
Your student may need a vehicle to get around town, especially if they plan to work part-time. While they could use some of their earnings to cover the car insurance, maintenance expenses, and parking permits, what about the initial cost of the vehicle itself? Even if you decide against purchasing a car, you might need to budget for bus passes or ride share expenses.
6. Entertainment
Just like when they were living at home, your college freshman will need money to pay for movies, eating out, or occasional splurges, like a vanilla latte. Budgeting for fun now could help you avoid arguments later about overspending.
There's no need to stress about college expenses when you have a plan to pay for them. Consider using a low-interest rate personal loan, like Together Credit Union's Any Reason, Any Season Loan or Line of Credit. Unlike private student loans, these financing options offer better terms and are available through a financial institution you trust.
Stop by any Together Credit Union location to speak a Personal Service Counselor and determine which loan option is the best fit for your finances!
