How to NOT Be a 'Broke College Kid' | Top 5 Tips

1. Ditch the Dryer - Hang your clothes to dry
Two dollars doesn't seem expensive but when you have to pay that for each load for the washer AND the dryer, that's a huge expense! I know personally, my semesters are 15 weeks each- so 30 weeks of school. Let's just say you do one load of laundry every two weeks; that's at least $60 spent on laundry! Why not instead, buy a clothes drying rack to keep in your room? I bought this one for $15 at Wal-Mart. I do pay for the washer obviously, but this saves me two dollars per load of laundry which means it paid for itself in 8 loads. Can't complain about that!

2. Frequent Flyers & Shop Sales! 
Groceries can get expensive! It seems that no amount of grocery store trips with my mom could prepare me for just how much I would have to spend on groceries. Plus there's those random things you need to buy as an adult that you never really considered (like toilet paper, and batteries, and light bulbs). Save.ca has been super helpful for finding sales near me. You put in your postal code and it delivers the flyers to your email for stores that are near you. Another tip I've learned is to buy in bulk. For things that are freezable (like cheese, veggies etc) or that have extended expiration dates (pasta, canned goods, snacks etc) buying a whack when it's on sale can really save you a pretty penny in the long run! 

3. Free Fun is Still Fun - Find free/cheap events to go to
I think the social aspect of college is definitely the biggest expense that is totally avoidable. Don't be a hermit by any means, but finding cheap or free events to go to can help you save a boat load of cash. Most colleges/universities will have entertainment at a discount or free social events (that aren't as lame as you think they are- think sports games and dirty bingo). Just recently my college had Jus Reign come and tickets were only ten bucks! It was a great night. As a photography student, we love to fool around and take pictures for fun to blow off some steam. For a night out, pre-drink so you only need to spend money on one or two drinks at the bar, it can save you quite a bit of money!

4. Apply for bursaries
There is so much money that colleges and universities have set aside specifically to give to students and yet so many go unclaimed because not enough people apply. Guys, it's literally free money that you don't have to pay back! When the time comes, fill out the bursary application because the worst that could happen is you don't qualify for any. On the other hand, you could get free money. Anything from $50 to $5000 is just extra cash in the bank!

5. Skip Starbucks
This is the big one guys...Starbucks is expensive. Even Tim Hortons is expensive. One coffee everyday, you're looking at over $100 per semester (and that's a conservative estimate). I don't have the time to brew coffee and I don't have the desire to spend a crap ton on a coffee maker when I know I'd probably want to upgrade when I get a more permanent place with a more permanent living partner. Instant coffee has become a great love of mine. Don't squish up your nose! It's actually not bad whatsoever- Folgers makes a really great instant coffee. Save your pennies for the more important things guys- like maybe rent haha. 

I hope these top five tips help some of you out! College is expensive and funds- especially this time of year- are running out quickly. Be smart and responsible with your money. Do you have any tips that help to save money? Please do let me know in a comment!

Thanks for reading & check back to see what KatieDidd, xo

Save or Splurge | Fashion & Style

Knowing where to invest your money can be a difficult thing to navigate. I have definitely been that kinda gal who has spent a ridiculous amount of money on something silly just for a brand name (or another stupid reason haha). Now that I know how to determine good quality and craftsmanship and how to keep a budget, I have laid out my masterplan of save or splurge: fashion edition!

EVERYDAY CLOTHES

Tanks: save

I don't see the need to spend more than about $5-$10 on a plain tank top for layering and such. They're such a basic piece and you can get some really good ones for little money.

Tees: save

I think basic tees are another thing you can save your money on- every store has a decent quality basics line that won't break the bank.

Jeans: splurge

Jeans are one of those things that really show their craft. Getting a nice, good quality pair of jeans may be something you'll have to spend a good amount of money on.

Underwear: save

I'm not saying go buy the 3 packs of Hanes for $5.99 but stores like Victoria's Secret and La Senza put on their 7 for $27 sales so often that there's really no need to pay full price for your panties.

Bras: splurge

If there's one thing you need to spend a pretty penny on it's gotta be a good bra. Wearing cheap bras is so bad for your breasts and back- you'll regret those cheap bras in your future!

Hoodies: save

For something so comfy and casual, who needs it to be expensive? They're mainly for bumming around in anyways.

Sweaters: splurge

Cheap sweaters are just a bad idea- a month down the road when it frays and pulls it really wasn't worth the saved money anyways because it will need to be replaced.

Shoes: splurge

A good pair of shoes is essential, not just for looks but for your body. Wearing a bad pair of shoes puts a strain on your hips, lower back, knees, and feet- not worth the save!

Socks: save

Just an everyday pair of socks? Don't waste your money, odds are you're the only person who's going to see them anyways.

Coats: splurge

If you're in the type of climate where you need to buy a coat then you'll want to spend a little extra money to get something that's well made. Nothing is worse than a cheap coat when its 30C below!

Jackets: save

Something like a denim or leather jacket is an item that can run at a higher price, but finding them for a lower dollar amount is a good idea. They're seasonal so you're only wearing them a few months of the year anyways- they don't wear out that quickly.

Joggers: save

Like the hoodies, odds are you're only going to wear them for bumming about the house, save your money for the nicer things.

Leggings: splurge

We've all witnessed a lady bend over in leggings and seen a little too much for comfort. Spend the few extra bucks for some good quality leggings so you don't have to worry about showing a bit too much.

Pyjamas: save

Just for sleeping? Save your money. Even if you're drawn to the luxurious pyjamas of Victoria's Secret or La Vie En Rose they always go on sale!

Skirts: splurge or save

I think there is definitely a need to splurge on a few nice skirts- a maxi, a pencil, a midi etc. But if you're looking for just a seasonal spring/summer skirt you can definitely save your moolah!

Dresses: splurge or save

Like the skirts, it's important to have a few nice dresses for fancier occasions and of course a gorgeous LBD. However, when it comes to summer dresses there are many on the market that run a little cheaper. 

FITNESS CLOTHES

Sports bra: splurge

Hold those girls close to your body to avoid saggy breasts in your old age!

Yoga pants: splurge

Re: leggings- really for the same reason.

Workout tops: save

If you've got a good sports bra on underneath then there's really no reason to spend an arm and a leg for expensive workout tops. My favourite tops to workout in are actually just old t-shirts and tank tops!

Running shorts: save

As long as you find a pair of running shorts that don't ride up, you're golden!

Trainers: splurge

My tip for buying your trainers is save up a hefty amount of money and go in not even looking at price tags. Your trainers need to fit like a dream and hit your feet in all the right places. If a good pair of trainers is going to cost you $300, it's worth it in the long run.

Breathable socks: splurge

100% cotton workout socks are a must if you're serious about getting fit- avoid that athletes foot! Nike and Under Armour make amazing workout socks. Yes they are pricy for what they are, but your feet with thank you.

I hope you guys found this save or splurge idea interesting and helpful! Please do let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading, xo, Katelyn