4 Ways to Save Money in DC
By Gemma Bush
Being in the nation's capital is an absolute blast, but it can be a little hard on the old wallet. As we all know, the bigger the city, the more expensive the cost of living, and DC is no exception. As Katy says, when we're back in Columbus everything will seem nice and cheap in comparison. But until then, here are four tried and true tips for saving green in DC.
1. Don't go overboard with eating out.
There are SO many amazing restaurants in this city that the temptation to splurge on eating out is near constant. I'd definitely recommend sampling as much of this city's delicious cuisine as possible, as a lot of dining options that aren't as readily available in Columbus are all over here. That said, eating out can be one of the biggest drains on your bank account while in DC, so it makes sense to limit it where possible. Pack your lunch when going to work rather than going out to lunch. Buy groceries and cook at home most week nights. Then, maybe you can treat yourself to brunch with your fellow WAIPers on Saturday.
2. Take the metro.
Generally, taking the metro rather than Ubering or Lyfting can save you a ton of money. However, it does depend on how far you're going, and how many people you're sharing an Uber with. If you're sharing an Uber with like four people, sometimes that can be cheaper per person than taking the metro. So, just be conscious of it. Walking is the cheapest option of all, and it's good exercise, too!
3. Take advantage of free activities
Having a fun and entertaining stay in DC can be very cheap or very expensive, depending on what you decide to do. Sometimes the free activities and sights in this city can be just as much fun as the ones you have to dole out a boatload of cash for. A Saturday spent at the Smithsonians and a night spent walking the monuments costs zero dollars, whereas going to the mall, the movies and a bar for instance on a Saturday might cost $50 or $60.
4. Be smart about going home
If you fly home for the weekend like four times over the course of the semester, that's going to seriously add up in terms of cost. Not to mention, you don't want to waste your WAIP semester by spending too much time back in Ohio. Consider planning visit about half way or three quarters through the semester -- it'll give you something to look forward to.
By Gemma Bush
1. Don't go overboard with eating out.
There are SO many amazing restaurants in this city that the temptation to splurge on eating out is near constant. I'd definitely recommend sampling as much of this city's delicious cuisine as possible, as a lot of dining options that aren't as readily available in Columbus are all over here. That said, eating out can be one of the biggest drains on your bank account while in DC, so it makes sense to limit it where possible. Pack your lunch when going to work rather than going out to lunch. Buy groceries and cook at home most week nights. Then, maybe you can treat yourself to brunch with your fellow WAIPers on Saturday.
2. Take the metro.
Generally, taking the metro rather than Ubering or Lyfting can save you a ton of money. However, it does depend on how far you're going, and how many people you're sharing an Uber with. If you're sharing an Uber with like four people, sometimes that can be cheaper per person than taking the metro. So, just be conscious of it. Walking is the cheapest option of all, and it's good exercise, too!
3. Take advantage of free activities
Having a fun and entertaining stay in DC can be very cheap or very expensive, depending on what you decide to do. Sometimes the free activities and sights in this city can be just as much fun as the ones you have to dole out a boatload of cash for. A Saturday spent at the Smithsonians and a night spent walking the monuments costs zero dollars, whereas going to the mall, the movies and a bar for instance on a Saturday might cost $50 or $60.
4. Be smart about going home
If you fly home for the weekend like four times over the course of the semester, that's going to seriously add up in terms of cost. Not to mention, you don't want to waste your WAIP semester by spending too much time back in Ohio. Consider planning visit about half way or three quarters through the semester -- it'll give you something to look forward to.
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