Money-Saving Tips – Technology

By Studentawards

Compiled from student responses to the Money Saving Tips contest (brought to you by
Studentawards in partnership with Scotiabank, April to June 2011). To learn more about how you can Fund Your Future, visit www.fundyourfuture.ca.

Technology swap! If your friend has the latest video camera and you have a sweet digital camera, switch for a couple days. That way, everyone gets the devices and usage they need without the price tag.
I use a pay-as-you go cell phone. This way I can keep exactly in my budget. I know I don't need a phone that texts and has internet, as I can just use email or the courtesy phone at school for free! Saves me lots of money!
Before you spend money on repair or other technological services, try and ask friends or family who may know a bit about computers to help you out first. They may offer their help at a much lower cost or even help out for free! Also try to buy technology around cheaper times such as boxing day or back to school season. And always shop around first!
I would suggest buying either used or refurbished technology. Apple has a great program where they give you a one year warranty and full certification that the product is in working order before they resell it. Also, taking your time to look around and find a good deal is always beneficial!
A lot of colleges and universities, especially those who specialize in using computers (design schools or technical schools) have to keep updated with computers and softwares. They often sell their old computers (sometimes they are only a few years or even just one year old) to students. Not only are these computers and laptops in great condition, they often come equipped with expensive software that can save you a bundle! If you can't find a school selling their computer, many companies such as Dell or Apple give students a discount already! You can save so much by just waiting until the first day of school to buy a computer and using your student I.D number!
Your parents want you to call home every once in a while, but that can get pretty expensive. So use Skype instead - it's FREE, easy to use and there's the option of talking to them face-to-face.
We all have at least one friend who has to have the latest technology whenever it comes out. Next time they're thinking about an update see if you can get hold of their old phone, laptop, ipod etc. Chances are it works perfectly fine, it just isn't quite as shiny or fast as the latest model.
Use websites like eBay and Kijiji to sell and buy your electronic devices online.
Comparison shop. This can take up a lot of time but is completely worth it when you find the perfect laptop and a long warranty for super cheap.
If you're usually on your laptop 24/7, why not just use it as your tv? You can watch your favourite tv shows on the official site of the channel it's on. That way, you don't have to pay for cable!

Information, advice and tips provided as part of the Money Saving Tips Contest are intended for entertainment only and should be taken with one or two somewhat large grains of salt.

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