How to save as students head back to college

CHARLOTTE — Students are continuing to get ready to head back to school, including those who are back to college.

However, tuition is just the start when it comes to the cost of higher education.

College student Janie Spiller said she started shopping months ago.

“So I need to buy sheets, a comforter, and pillows,” Janie Spiller said. “Instead of one large expense right before I leave with everything at once, we decided to break it up throughout the summer.”

Janie’s mother, Kelly Spiller said comparison shopping is an absolute must.

“I’m looking at Amazon. I’m looking at Wayfair. I’m looking at Target, Walmart, and places like that. So when I see a deal, I grab them and we just stash them away,” Kelly Spiller explained.

Using apps like Honey and CamelCamelCamel can also help you save money.

The Honey app is designed to find coupons, as well as deals. The CamelCamelCamel app is designed to keep track of Amazon prices, so you’ll know when it’s the best time to buy. It also sorts items by what you need, as well as what you want.

Janie Spiller said future students should start saving as early as they can.

“You don’t want to be a victim of last-minute impulse purchases. Just like, okay, we’re here, we need it, let’s just buy it. And then you see it on sale weeks later,” Janie Spiller said.

The best thing to do when you are trying to save money while sending your kid off the college is to start by shopping in your closet first.

Avoid buying new stuff whenever possible because all it’s going to do is get beaten up at college anyway.

Remember, you will be paying enough for your kid’s college education so don’t spend money on things you don’t need.

VIDEO: Rock Hill teachers receive classroom makeovers before school year begins

Rock Hill teachers receive classroom makeovers before school year begins

©2023 Cox Media Group