Now that you’re in college, you’re going to witness how fast higher education cleans out your wallet, forcing you to live on a budget. Why go beyond your limit when you could own your textbooks for a whole lot cheaper?
Below is a list and guide to the top three websites that are guaranteed to give you the cheapest textbook options.
3. Amazon.com
Many professors recommend it, many students use it, so why don’t you? Just simply type in the ISBN number, click the correct edition, then decide whether you want your book new or used. If anything, always browse through the “”used”” tab because there may be textbooks that are “”like new”” or “”very good”” condition for relatively cheap, though not always the cheapest available.
2. Ebay.com
Your textbook may be available on this popular site. If it is, you’ll notice that the listed price may be dirt cheap, but that’s before the bidding war takes place. Unfortunately, the bids may cause you to spend more than what’s available. So, if you don’t want to take the risk, browse through the listings with the “”buy it now”” option. Usually, this action will grant you the cheapest price.
1. Half.com
It’s a shame that many college students aren’t aware of Half.com, a company owned by Ebay. Simply put, it’s similar to Amazon, but more organized and cheaper. You can’t buy from the website itself; rather, it’s an aggregator for other online vendors’ deals. But that ceases to matter when you have the ability to spend less on a new textbook compared to the price of a used textbook at the UofA Bookstore.
Don’t forget to check out these websites toward the end of the semester as well. Like buying, you will score a sweeter deal selling your textbooks through these organizations compared to the UofA Bookstore. Keep in mind, however, that there’s no guarantee that it’ll sell.
With that said, here are a couple tips and tricks that will guarantee a successful textbook-ordering experience.
E-mail the seller before you order. Unlike Ebay, Amazon and Half.com do not detail the listing’s age. E-mailing beforehand can help you determine whether or not the seller is still active, as well as answer any questions regarding the book’s information (i.e. edition).
Check the ratings and reviews before your purchase. This helps you avoid scams, as well as obtain a general idea regarding your potential shopping experience.
If you’re having difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact the website. Just like any business, these sites’ success depends on your shopping experience. So, if you’re having a terrible one because, say, a seller is being uncooperative and hasn’t shipped your book, contact them. They’ll help you get your money back immediately.
And if you just can’t find it online, buy it at the UofA Bookstore. Enough said.
