Between campus dining halls, ramen noodles, and late night chip binges, it is no mystery why some college students pack on that “freshman 15.” Eating healthy is hard. Eating healthy on a tight budget is even harder, especially with the stress of college work.

The best way to avoid bad eating habits is to stock your shelves with nutritious food that is easy to prepare. Believe it or not, this can be done with around $30 a week! Here are five tips that will help you become the master of your fridge and the captain of your wallet.

Buy Produce That Is In Season
Not only will this ensure that the produce you are buying tastes better, it’s also more affordable. It is worth it to see which grocery stores are offering deals on certain produce items; the cost for fruit and vegetables can vary greatly from store to store. When it is farmer’s market season, try buying fresh and local.

Don't Shop When You're Hungry
This is a recipe for disaster. If you shop when you are hungry, you will want to buy everything in sight or items which are not healthy. Avoid it if you can.

Look At Cost per Volume
The cost per volume can generally be found on the price tag on the shelf in small text under the total cost. Compare between brands and sizes to see where you can get the best price. This will give you a definitive look at what is really the best bang for your buck. Buying in bulk goes right along with this. Buy things like flour, sugar, potatoes, and toilet paper in bulk. It is almost always cheaper in the long run.

Buy Store Brands
Do you really need “name brand” canned beans? Yeah, me neither. Store brands are usually 20%-40% cheaper, and for most things, I doubt you’ll be able to tell the difference.

Make a List
Write a list. Plan exactly what you need and what you’re going to buy. Find coupons for the things you have on your list. Pay attention to weekly specials at your local grocery store. If you don’t make a list you’ll find you will spend more money than you planned even if you only went to the store to purchase a few items.

Do you have tips to add to the list? Send them to us on Facebook or Twitter or email it to us at social@gwcu.org. Follow our MoneySmart blog for more financial tips.

Author: Kelsey Olsen

Kelsey is a Marketing Assistant at the USU Credit Union division of Goldenwest and a Utah State University Student.