Whether you have a meal plan or not, having a stash of food in your room is absolutely necessary. Here are some essential items to add to your grocery list, all for under $50.
Popcorn
It takes three minutes to make and is the perfect snack for studying or just hanging out and watching a movie. ($5.89 for 10 bags)
Chips and salsa
For when you’re feeling festive and don’t have a lot of time to cook something. Get a couple of different salsa heats and dips for extra fun! ($2.39 for one bag tortilla chips; $3.29 for a jar of salsa)
Hot chocolate
Granted, it’s not a food, but who doesn’t love curling up in a blanket with a hot cup of cocoa when it’s cold outside? ($2.99 for 10 packets)
Peanut butter
Eat it plain, with apples or on a slice of toast for a delicious boost of protein. ($4.19 for 18-ounce jar)
Salt and pepper
At some point, you’ll need them. ($1.79 for both shakers)
Top Ramen
It’s a little cliché, but there’s a reason for that: ramen is cheap and tasty at any time of the day or night. (49 cents per pack)
Baby carrots
Amongst loads of inexpensive, easily accessible junk food, it’s nice to have some veggies around, and carrots are mess- and hassle-free. ($1.99 for a one-pound bag)
Trail mix
Tons of variety! But if you’re sharing it, don’t just pick out the M&Ms. That’s mean.($2.85 for six-ounce bag)
Pasta
Whether it’s mac ‘n’ cheese or fettuccine alfredo, pasta is relatively quick to make and tastes gourmet. ($1.19 pack spaghetti; $1.59 per macaroni box)
Popcorn
Seriously, did you add it to your shopping list? Add it again.
Cereal
A quick breakfast and a simple snack to pack for class. ($3.99 average per box)
Instant mashed potatoes
For when you’re feeling homesick. Add some veggies, stovetop stuffing and chicken for a feast to share with the neighbors. ($4-5 for two-cup bags)
Apples
They take longer to go bad than other fruits and are packed with vitamins! ($1.49 for one pound)
Pop Tarts
“Oooh, Pop Tarts sound really good right now. I wish I had some…” Now you do.($2.49 for eight pastries)
Candy
Go pick out your favorite candy, because you’re bound to have a bad day once in a while. (79 cents–$5 for bars or bags, respectively)
Total: $49.61