6 Hacky Ways to Save Big During Rush Season (Yes, Even on a Free iPhone)
Rush season is here - which means events, outfits, travel, and a *lot* of spending if you’re not careful. Whether you’re pledging, recruiting, or just trying to survive the chaos, here are six Frich-approved ways to keep your bank account intact.
<div class="frich-tip">Spoiler alert: one of them gets you a free iPhone 13.</div>
1️⃣ Get a Free iPhone When You Switch to Total Wireless 5G Unlimited+
If you’re paying $70+ a month for a phone plan, you’re overpaying. Sorry, but that's the truth.
<div class="frich-tip">Total Wireless lets you switch carriers and get a free iPhone 13 (128GB!) when you bring your number over and sign up for their no-contract 5G Unlimited plan.</div>
Why it’s rush-perfect: New phone + you’ll cut your monthly bill without a credit check or surprise fees.
2️⃣ Free AirPods When You Buy an iPad or MacBook at Apple
If you’ve been eyeing a newMacBook, Apple’s annual back-to-school promo gets you a free pair of AirPods when you buy a MacBook or iPad with your student discount.
<div class="frich-tip"> Frich tip: Finance your device with Apple’s $0 down monthly plan - no credit check required for Apple Card Monthly Installments if you qualify - and you’re walking away with a new laptop and free AirPods.</div>
3️⃣ Score 20% Off, Plus Half-Price Delivery at Target with Your Student ID
Sign up for Target Circle Student and you’ll get 20% off one entire purchase (yes, storewide) plus 50% off your Target Circle membership. That unlocks same-day delivery, app-only deals, and late-night “oh no I forgot” runs for snacks, decor, or last-minute rush outfits.
4️⃣ Save Up to 91% on Textbooks with BiggerBooks Rentals
Buying textbooks new just isn't the move. BiggerBooks lets you rent them for up to 91% off list price, and shipping is free if you spend $59+.
5️⃣ The Sephora Free Mini-Makeover Trick
Before a big event, book a **complimentary mini-makeover** at Sephora. The catch? You have to spend \$50 — but you can use that on skincare or makeup you’d buy anyway. That means free glam before bid day without actually paying for a stylist.
6️⃣ Snag Student-Only Discounts with UNiDAYS
From half-off at Urban Outfitters to 20% off Glossier makeup, UNiDAYS is basically a cheat code for rush prep. Sign up free with your student email, show your code at checkout, and watch your money go further on clothes, beauty, tech, and more.
Why This Matters
Switching to a no-contract phone plan like Total Wireless can be one of the *fastest* ways to free up cash — and in this case, it also upgrades your phone for free. We’ve tested prepaid vs postpaid plans, compared hidden fees, and even ranked the Top 5 No-Contract Cell-Phone Plans for Heavy Data Users.
Spoiler: the free iPhone 13 deal from Total Wireless is unbeatable for 2025.
