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Most college students arrive at college with no idea just how broke they will spend the next 4 years and no idea just how expensive furniture is, even the small amount of furniture needed to furnish the 12 x 13-foot cubicle they will call home for the next 5 months.

With a little planning ahead and some creativity, dorm rooms can be furnished in ways that are both practical and economical.

First, there are the beds. Some colleges have bunk beds, some have stackable single beds, some have normal beds, and still others have nothing. If one roommate does not mind sleeping above the other, it is advisable to try to loft one or both beds, either as bunk beds, or in an "L" shape, or even in two separate lofts. This creates more space in the room for other furnishings. But lofts can be expensive. The key here is to plan ahead. Around move-out time, look on Craigslist, Facebook marketplace, campus bulletin boards, etc. Somebody is likely moving out and has no way to take their loft with them.

Next is seating. Again, with limited space and limited funds, practicality is a foremost concern. Futons were a gift to college students. They are comfortable, cheap, compact, and multi-purpose. A futon can be found new for only a few hundred dollars. Although it will probably not be the most comfortable bed in the world, when the student moves on and has more resources, they can always buy a more comfortable mattress. This also doubles as both a couch and a convenient bed for friends or family visiting from home. Again, by keeping an eye on move-out time, one can often find futons for under $100. The best part is that it is easy enough to replace the mattress that a new student can keep the frame and still get a great deal.

Chairs are a fun project. Many large-box retailers like Walmart, Target and Shopko, have chairs designed for dorm room use. Most are compact, modern looking, and not too expensive. Bean bags are always a popular choice. Also useful though, are the "camp chairs" that can be found in the outdoor aisle. They are usually under $20, and they fold up and can be moved out of the way when more space is needed, which is always a plus in a dorm room. They can also be taken outside to study in the sun, or to sporting event tailgates. If even $20 seems like too much, try walking around the campus at the beginning of the semester. Many banks give out these chairs as "free" gifts when new students sign up for a checking account or credit card.

Many people like to have a coffee table. This is one item where planning ahead is key. When moving from home to college, students likely will have a lot to bring with them. That translates to a lot of luggage, which must later be stored in the already-tight dorm room quarters. A smart student can invest in a foot locker or trunk. They are durable, provide a lot of extra space, and can double as a coffee table.

With a little creativity and planning, any dorm room can be stylishly outfitted on a budget.

Learn more about this author, Zach F.
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