(HELENA BOLOGNA/The Daily Campus)

Spring break is right around the corner. While it may be too late to get the best deals on airfare or hotels, it’s time to save for smaller expenditures. Everyone could use a little play money come March 12. Dinner out on the town or beachside beveragaes can get pricey, so save up.

Over the next two weeks take note of purchases you could go without and modify your spending patterns. Think of it as bikini season for your checkbook. It’s time to whip it into shape. Save now and you’ll appreciate the extra cushion in your bank account. It would be a pity to be on vacation, of all places, anxious about money.

Every day the line for bagels and coffee on campus is stacked solid. Try investing in a coffee pot. Better yet, drink water. It’s better for your teeth.

Need caffeine to stay awake? Try vitamins or working out to boost your energy. You’ll save some cash skimping on the brew.

Wake up 15 minutes earlier and avoid breakfast costs. Cereal and milk can work wonders for your financial health. Oatmeal is easy as well. Cutting down on the take-out and making your breakfast is an easy way to trim your cash outflows.

Are you planning on going out this weekend? Don’t. Invite friends over to cook dinner and enjoy their company. Watch a movie. Go outside and enjoy the weather – Hit the Katy Trail or White Rock Lake. By not blowing your entertainment funds now, you will be sure to have sufficient reserves to do whatever you’d like in just a few weeks.