How to budget as a student

Spoiler - budgeting doesn’t have to be hard! The more organised you are, the easier it will be. Budgeting as a student can leave you living your best life: I mean, keeping your costs low gives you more money for fun.

Food and drink

Food and drink can be so spenny! If you give yourself a monthly food budget, you’re less likely to be impulsive when shopping. Don't forget to make the most of your Iceland discount too!

Meal plan

Meal plan before going to the supermarket. There are always discounts, but if they’re on things you don’t need, it’s not a bargain. Also, the first rule in the book - never ever go food shopping hungry. If you want to avoid the shops and food shop admin, why don’t you opt for a Hello Fresh box instead?

Buy in bulk

If you know there is something you always buy, the likelihood is, it’s cheaper to buy more at the same time.

Cook with friends

If you take it in turns to cook with friends, your shopping bill will be much lower. Always consider shopping as a group, it’s more sociable, and will save you money.

Course materials and resources

Books

You don’t have to buy all of the course materials new. Several places offer book swaps, or reduced second-hand books that can save you some serious money. Also, don’t forget that your uni library is likely to have the course materials, get in there first and check before purchasing.

Printing costs

The university may not be the cheapest place to print. Always shop around, and you never know - you may be able to print from a friend’s printer if you supply some £ for ink.

Travel

Pre-booking

If you are planning to travel somewhere, advance tickets are often a little cheaper, so the sooner you book, the more you may save.

Get a railcard

If you use trains often, get yourself a 16-25 or 26-30 Railcard! It saves you ⅓ on train travel, which is also a flex.

Travel for less with UNiDAYS

With discounts on National Express, LNER and FlixBus, travelling couldn’t be cheaper!

Toiletries

Toiletries can be pricey if you leave them til you need it. When you see your fave things on offer, buy two! Don’t forget to use your Boots discount for extra savings too.

Entertainment

Give yourself a budget for entertainment, and before booking, always look on UNiDAYS first. From Virgin Experience Days and Junkyard Golf Club to Sea Life, you can save on big days out.

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