College costs are rising at an alarming pace. In order to make sure your kids will have the benefit of higher education, you need to start saving right now. Luckily, there are several investment options that can help you send your kids to college — without sacrificing your retirement. You can invest in state-sponsored plans, like a 529 plan, or you can set up your own plan, similar to an IRA. In fact, you can even do both. Whatever you decide, though, your best bet is to start right away.