College students are finding innovative ways to stretch their dollars further, from textbook swaps to meal planning, ensuring budgets last as long as the semester does.

Graduation is coming up for all of the seniors, and for those who are going to college, it can be stressful to think about money and what you’re going to be saving and spending.

Brandes Gress, a writer for the website Degree Choices writes, “Befriending students who have already taken your classes is always a good idea as they might be willing to swap their books with you.”  Fortunately, there are ways to get around paying for all of the textbooks. Student Unions or advisers can also help you with community textbook exchanges. Textbooks can be expensive and if you are already paying for housing or even your education itself, swapping can be very useful.

Healthline says “Although it may not be exactly 15 pounds (7 kg), studies suggest many first-year college students gain around 7.5 pounds (3.5 kg) on average during their first year.” Most of this is due to eating out because there is less time to make your food during the day. It is helpful to have a meal plan and or prep that is ready by the beginning of the week so that there are fewer chances of spending money on breakfast or lunch at expensive cafes on the go. Meal planning and prepping saves money because you are not spending 20 to 40 dollars a day on food or doordash.

In most cases, buying a meal plan for the year is cheaper than paying in cash every time you go out or want a meal.

There are many more ways to be aware of your budget and how much you are spending, and in college, there is always room for more money.