20 simple ways to save money
Being a student, budgets can be tight and student loans often don’t fully cover the cost of living and studying at uni… So what are some simple ways to save some extra money as a student?
Have one no-spend day per week
It’s often easier said than done! Pick one day a week to commit to not spending a penny! Whether that’s by walking into university instead of the bus, cooking leftovers, or making coffee at home before heading out for the day, it can be helpful to save a few pennies here and there!
Search for discounts before buying
Student discounts are popular but you won’t be eligible for them forever! So use them whilst you can… Shop around online to find the best deals and offer codes using sites like Honey and cash back apps too.
Deposit part of your loan into savings
If it’s not all going on your rent as soon as it enters your account, or if you have some leftover at the end of term, why not pop some of your loan into a savings account? Having one with high interest can be good to gather some extra cash for a longer term savings goal like a holiday or emergency fund.
Buy an annual student bus pass
A great way to save some cash- especially if you regularly take public transport! It often covers additional journeys too so make the most of the deal!
Use student cinema discounts
Whether that’s covering food/drink or ticket costs, you can get student discounts at most local and chain cinema locations!
Skip the TV licence (if eligible)
Be sure to check if you actually need one! Often students that don’t watch iPlayer or Live TV don’t need a licence so check online to see if you actually need to pay for one and let them know so they can stop pestering you!
Use free workout videos
Whether that’s free apps or on YouTube, you can find plenty of great home workout videos to save on a gym membership or spending on leisure centre access.
Shop at discount supermarkets
Aldi and Lidl are often best value for students and budget friendly. Alternatively, try supermarket own-brand items for a better value deal.
Shop during markdown times
At the end of the day or during sales can be a good time to find a great deal or a few yellow stickers!
Use meal discount vouchers
Whether that’s a TasteCard or student discounts, you can get plenty of money off eating out at restaurants, cafés, and outlets. Even better if you can make food from home more often!
Up-cycle furniture
You can often make new items from furniture you already have with a bit of light DIY, or you can search Facebook Marketplace, Ebay, and Vinted for good second-hand deals and finds for your student home.
Bring cash on nights out
A good way to watch your spending, budget more easily, and stop yourself from dipping into your savings, loan, or overdraft! Just be mindful when venues are card only!
Pack lunches
If you’re not already doing it, it can save so much money when compared to how expensive university cafés or even meal deals are when you add up the costs over the week! We have plenty of meal ideas for you.
Plan weekly meals
Meal planning can save money, time, and effort! Either plan what you’ll have in advance by buying specific ingredients from the supermarket or even prepare meals in advance to save some time in the week around a busy timetable!
Avoid shopping while hungry
This can definitely lead to higher spending and impulse buys so try not to where possible!
Track spending
Use budgeting tools, weekly limits, or supermarket shopping lists to track your spending more efficiently.
Use click and collect
This could reduce the amount of impulse buys you spot around the store and save you some time too!
Take cash for food shopping
Similar to when going out, taking cash (where accepted) can make budgeting for food shops much easier…
Look for part-time hustles
Whether that’s working as a university ambassador or doing online influencing, you can definitely earn some extra bonus cash alongside your studies…
Split subscriptions with friends
Instead of having 6 separate Netflix or Spotify accounts, why not get one for the household and share a family account to save some cash!
