Obtain a book list of college textbooks that you need, which unfortunately can be harder than it sounds. Watch for college bookstores battling against the lower prices of online distributors by refusing to hand out book lists. Check with professors or visit the college bookstore to get the necessary information.
Look for the textbook ISBN number before you buy online. The ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a unique number assigned by the publisher. You'll find the 10 to 13-digit number on the back of the title page or the lower right hand corner on the back of the book. An ISBN is the best way to assure that you're getting the correct textbook.
Search at online book websites like Campus Books or Book Byte. Campus Books has access to book lists from a few campuses like UCLA. You can also search books by title or ISBN number. Or browse by textbook category to find everything from Accounting to Zoology.
Compare prices between the various sources of college textbooks. Campus Books includes a price comparison tool. Find an organic chemistry text that retails for $190.95 used on eBay for $9.99 or new at Amazon for $33.49.
Make certain that you figure shipping costs into your final total for all online purchases. You don't have to pay shipping costs at a college bookstore.
Consider buying used textbooks. Just like at college bookstores, used textbooks found online can be significantly cheaper. Make certain you're getting the correct edition by comparing ISBN's.
Check the return policy of any online distributor of college textbooks. Any number of things might occur that require you to ask for a refund: wrong text, damaged used book or the class may simply be dropped.