5 ways to save money and still have a social life

I'm sure we've all heard the "poor starving college student" bit before, but it hits a little closer to home for some of us than others. For a lot of low income college students, it can be a fine line between saving your precious money for the necessities and having this social life that you want.

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But, saving money doesn't have to mean you can't have that social life. Here are 5 ways you can hold on to your cash and still have a good time with friends:

1. Meet friends for lunch, not dinner. Lunch is almost always a cheaper option than dinner. If you can suggest a place with great lunch specials.


2. Eat before you go out and order light. If you have a full stomach from stuff you already ate at home, you're less likely to splurge on food and drinks when you go out. And when you do order, stick to ordering water instead of a soda or other drink and consider getting an appetizer, side dish, salad, or dessert only as your entree.

3. Offer to be the DD. If alcohol is going to be involved in a night of going out, offer to be the designated sober driver. You'll save money by not buying drinks and your party-hearty friends will love you. Some bars will even give the DD free non-alcoholic drinks! Don't have a car? Offer to drive someone else's car for the night.

4. Fake it. Instead of ordering a $6 cocktail, order a cheaper soft drink or virgin option that still looks like it could be an alcoholic beverage. A Roy Rogers (cherry Coke) is a good option. You can also ask for a glass of water.

5. Stay in instead. A social life doesn't always mean going out. Try hosting a small get together like a potluck or movie night rather than going out.

See, saving money is not the end of fun! If you party hard, party safely--and save a few buck in the process.

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.