Sometimes finding the perfect gift for your family and friends can be a hassle, but the real hassle is saving money on these gifts. As a college student, it’s almost second-nature for us to scope out the best deals, so when it comes to gift giving, we really need to keep our eyes out for super savings. MOVE’s got your back for tips and tricks on how to save this holiday season. Let us save, let us save, let us save…

**Online deals near you**
To find a deal this holiday season, look no further than Groupon. Create an account and browse their wide range of selections. From spa savings to food freebies and even destination discounts, Groupon allows all the fun for half the price. Treat your friend to a massage or a luxurious lunch. Groupon even sells actual gifts, so you can grab the perfect present for everyone on your list. And get this: Groupon also has a clearance section on its site, so hold onto your wallet or things might get a little out of control. Not only will these presents bring smiles to your friends’ faces, you’ll also save quite a bit of dough while you’re at it.

**Hitting up the malls? Try this**
Checking out the sale rack is an obvious tip, but don’t stop there at the savings. Ask the store employees if they offer student discounts. For example, stores like J. Crew, Banana Republic, Madewell and Charlotte Russe offer discounts 24/7 for students with their student ID. When the malls start to overwhelm you, check out TJ Maxx or Marshalls for chic, high-quality gifts for the people you care about. You can always find a stupendous deal at these stores, and they are especially perfect places for finding cute little trinkets and treats.

**DIY (lasts) 4EVER**
Take a trip to Hobby Lobby or Michaels and go wild. Handmade gifts aren’t only cheap; they are meaningful as well. Whether it’s making a necklace or painting a picture, you can’t go wrong with DIY projects. One special idea to consider is making collages for your friends and family. Old and new magazines and newspapers just lay around nowadays, so grab some glue and get going on your masterpiece. Personalize each gift by pasting the recipient’s favorite foods, animals, and sports on a piece of cardboard. This DIY gift is one of the easiest and cheapest gifts out there and is even more meaningful than just buying something. You are giving a gift that won’t only be extraordinary but also treasured.

**Goodwill: A student’s gifting Godsend**
Good ol’ Goodwill, you have been by my side through DIY jean shorts and Homecoming theme outfits, but now it’s time to step up. Get thrifty! Buy a unique item from Goodwill. You can try to revamp a T-shirt for your best friend or even style up some sucky sunglasses for your Aunt Sally. Everyone appreciates a handmade gift, and there’s no better way than to pay pennies for these painless DIY projects. Maybe even find an ordinary yet retro item, requiring no DIY skills, like an oversized AC/DC tour tee for your hipster sis. Don’t forget, Goodwill gives students a 10 percent discount, so there’s another reason to hit up this thrifty and college-student-friendly store.