Save Money With A Student ID Card

Many college students forget that their student ID card does more than get them into their dorms or dining hall.  Student ID cards also help get student discounts on food, travel and entertainment in the cities you live and go to school in.  Business owners have discovered that giving students discounts is the best way to get students to come back with their friends which means repeat business and more profit for them even though they are providing  discount!

Since college students tend to be short on cash as a general rule, the idea that your student ID card offers up cheap and free options for a number of activities is a good one.  Here are a number of options where you can save money using your ID card – and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for advertisements in your area that offer discounts and free experiences just for showing your ID:

Buses And Trains

Most public transportation providers located in and around college towns will provide substantial discounts to students having a student ID card.  Whether you’re traveling to and from college for holidays and school breaks; or using the public transportation system to move between school, work, and home on a daily basis – your student ID can help you save money on these costs.  Some airlines will even offer a discount to student ID holders – check the airline website or make a few phone calls to see if you can score discounts before you book a flight.  Further reading:  How To Save Money On Airline Tickets.

Shopping

In college towns, the grocery stores and supermarkets may offer a discount if you show your student ID.  This is less likely in a major retailer like Walmart for example – but smaller, locally owned shops tend to give discounts to college students.

Movies

Most movie theaters will take a few dollars off the price of admission for students carrying an ID card.  If you’re not sure which theaters in your area participate, call them before arriving to find out.

Live Theater

If your college town offers a venue for plays and shows, chances are the venue will offer discounted ticket prices if you show off your student ID when buying tickets.

Restaurants

From fast food to casual dining and upscale restaurants – there is a good chance your college town is surrounded by eateries that will accept your student ID card for a discount.  Sometimes you can only use your ID card on certain nights or during the lunch time hour to get a discount – so call ahead to find out the details – but the savings are substantial and give you a way to skip out on the cafeteria food in exchange for something better once in awhile!