It’s that time again…back to school! Not only does school time mean more studying, it also requires a little bit of dorm decorating. While many college students fear spending the extra money on dorm décor, there are actually some great ways to save money and still live in style.

1. Look at discount stores.

When shopping for the more expensive items for your room such as bedding, decorative pillows or furniture, don’t forget to bargain hunt at discount stores. Whether it’s a local business or a national chain, discount stores offer quality items at steep discounts. Plus, you’ll sometimes find unique items that will add that special element of “you” to your dorm room.

1. Utilize online shipping specials.

Online shopping is still a big trend, but with this added convenience comes additional cost – often in the form of shipping. Thankfully, various stores have implemented cost-efficient methods for shipping. Prior to shipping that great new desk chair or bookshelf, look and see if the store from which you are purchasing it offers a ship-to-store feature. Some businesses also offer free shipping if your total purchase exceeds a minimum amount. Either option helps save you money while picking up necessary dorm items.

1. Think out of the box when brainstorming decoration ideas.

New picture frames, candles or posters might help decorate your walls and bookshelves, but these items can also get expensive. With a little creative thought, you can come up with some stylish ideas that add personality to your room without breaking the bank. Instead of picture frames, consider clipping pictures to a decorative string and then drape it across a wall. Or, instead of expensive wall art or posters, consider buying 1-2 stencils and then customizing a design that you can easily paint over once you move out of your dorm room. As with many small spaces, keep in mind that less is more.

1. Treasure hunt.

Many households have a storage room that is full of items that are simply collecting dust: it might be an old trunk that you took to camp ten years ago, last year’s curtains or even pictures that have been retired since your parents remodeled. Prior to going on a spending spree for your college dorm room, turn a creative eye to these items in storage and see if they could be any use to you. Perhaps that old trunk could be a great coffee table – plus added storage. Or, maybe you could re-invent the curtains to make them a bit more stylish or simply add a touch of home to your dorm room walls by putting up an old family photo.

1. Plan ahead.

Believe it or not, you won’t be in college forever. Think ahead about what you will need in a future apartment or house once you land that big, post-college job. What type of style do you envision yourself having? If you’re set on one particular look or feel, opt to purchase items – lamps, furniture and even decorations – that compliment that décor. Or, if you’re uncertain, perhaps stick to a neural color scheme or choose items that are versatile and will compliment a number of rooms, no matter their look.

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