The real challenge of the semester: finding textbook prices that will allow you to keep some of that graciously gifted holiday cash. We’ve whipped up a list of the best places online to buy or rent your books that will save you some serious dough.
Chegg.com
With the convenience of getting all of your texts in one beautiful orange box that is delivered quickly, Chegg makes the list. This site allows to rent or buy, but has incredible rental prices. Better yet, Chegg gives you a phone call at the end of your rental period to remind you to return the books. You just pack them all up back into the box, print out the free shipping label and deliver to UPS. Done and done!
Amazon.com
This site is a tried and true source for book prices. Amazon has a great selection of options to ensure you get the best price. Whether you rent, buy used or even get an e-text, Amazon has you covered. The only downfall? Shipping tends to take a considerable amount of time if not priority mailed. Plan ahead if you decide to use Amazon.com.
Textbookrentals.com
Although this site does not allow users to directly buy or rent textbooks, it is the best site to check where you can get the best rental price on a specific title. Just plug in the ISBN or textbook name and textbookrentals.com will bring up various rental options in order of price from lowest to highest.
Half.com
Run by eBay, this site is not limited to books, but does have an extensive textbook section. While shopping for this semester’s titles, you can sell any old ones you have on hand, as half.com has a sellers option. Out with the old, in with the cash.
If all else fails, remember that you can always get the earlier editions of the book for considerably less money. Most professors approve this option, but make sure to ask in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on valuable content.
