There is no need to break the bank in the process of sending your student back to college at the end of summer. With a little forethought, there are many ways to cut back on expenses.

Rent Texts Whenever Possible
Within the last couple of years, a number of college text rental options have opened up on the Internet. These services rent most texts that are required for the major universities for a fraction of their retail or even used costs. Most are willing to order texts if they can’t be found in their catalogs.

Buy Personal Items in Bulk
College students go through an abundance of toiletry items during the course of a term. Shopping for certain items in bulk will ensure that your student will stay supplied for the entire term and save money in the process. Items such as extra toothpaste, hair products, deodorant, shaving supplies, toilet paper and other things can be found in bulk quantities at warehouse-type discount stores.

Layer the Linens
Most dorms require students to provide their own linens. Two sets of extra-long, all-cotton sheets and pillowcases should be enough for the bed. If the student winters in a cold climate, make one set flannel. A light blanket and a heavier bedspread or comforter that allows for layering is the best way to stay warm on cold winter nights without having to buy expensive wool blankets.

Eat on the Cheap
Send your college student back to campus with an ample supply of dried and instant foods such as ramen noodles that do not require refrigeration. When students spend their food money on just a few fresh fruits and vegetables each day to go with the dried or instant foods, they will end up saving hundreds of dollars per semester.

Avoid Fancy Coffee Houses
If your student is a coffee drinker, providing him or her with an electric coffee pot can also save a lot of money. Fancy coffee house drinks can run between $2.50 and $3.50 per day. That adds up to around $280 per semester or $560 per year!

Use Prepaid Cell Phones
Provide college students with prepaid cell phones to avoid expensive overage charges on minutes and text messages.

Shop for Student Specials on Computers
It is hard to get by without a computer in college. However, many stores offer student specials in the form of discounted computers. Begin with your college’s bookstore or computer lab. They usually keep tabs on these types of resources.

Lower Your Recreation and Entertainment Costs
Most colleges and universities offer a plethora of free entertainment. Urge your student to take advantage of these events when possible. Also, rather than paying for a cable subscription for television or to go to the movie, they can rent movies or watch many television programs online.

Take Public Transportation
Public transportation is the way to go for college students. Forget about the upkeep and gas expenses of having a car on campus. Public transportation is cheaper, safe, and better for the environment.

Seek Out Student Discounts
Many college towns offer student discounts for an array of services. Students should inquire at restaurants, fitness centers, and so forth to take advantage of student discounts whenever possible.

With a few changes to their daily routine, college students can save hundreds of even thousands per year!