Start Tracking Your Spending With a Budgeting App
Working out exactly how much your outgoings are every month takes the guesswork and the surprises out of the equation. It lets you know exactly how much you need every month without fail, and what is left over to enjoy the month with. Budgeting apps can make things quicker by splitting all your bills, expenses, savings and more to give you a near-exact amount each month. This is quicker than spreadsheets and a calculator after an expensive weekend.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts and Freebies
Almost every chain restaurant, cinema, coffee shop or clothing shop will offer a student discount. Most places only require your student ID as proof, meaning it’s easy to get discounts and save money. Check with your University to see if they have any schemes or discounts with specific businesses.
Plan Your Weekly Meals Instead of Buying On The Go
Meal prep might not seem like the most exciting way to spend your Sunday, but in the long run, it can save you potentially hundreds of pounds in grocery bills every month, as well as time in your week. By bulk buying and cooking, you reduce the time spent in the evenings figuring out what you want for dinner. You also reduce the chance of wasting money when you’re hungry on unnecessary items or takeaways.
Split Bills With Housemates Using The Student Energy Group
The Student Energy Group makes student bill splitting simple by allowing you to bundle all your household utilities into one easy payment. By combining your household bills, everyone only has to pay their share in a single transaction, reducing late fees and stress. It also makes budgeting easier, since you’ll know exactly what your payment is each month rather than having to guess.
Buy Second-Hand Whenever You Can
Charity shops, upcycling and flea markets have become all the rage over the last decade and for good reason. Getting high-end items at a fraction of the price is a benefit for everyone and can make all the difference. Second hand means you don’t have to dig out last year’s outfits just to save money.
Use Cashback and Reward Apps for Everyday Purchases
Store cards and points apps are often designed to encourage you to spend more, but if you’re smart with them, they can save you serious money. If you have regular stores that you often buy from, take advantage of their reward schemes to help save you money on your purchases. Whether it’s a free coffee from a store you regularly visit, Clubcard prices on your groceries, or bogof deals, doing research ahead of time can make all the difference.
Cut Down on Energy Bills With a Few Small Changes
Turn the lights off when you’re leaving a room, unplug your charger when you’re finished with it, and turn the tap off whilst brushing your teeth. They may all seem like small, unimportant changes, but they can actually make all the difference when used by the entire household.
Swap Nights Out for Cheaper Nights In (Once in a While
Not every social event has to be a massive night out. For under a tenner, a few shop-bought pizzas and a movie can make a perfect quiet night with friends. There are plenty of ways to enjoy good company without draining your account, such as Board game nights, binging a new series, or just hanging out on the sofa. You still get to socialise and meet people, just without the expensive beer and taxi fares.
Learn The Art of Cheap Travel and Student Railcards
Can you walk rather than take the train? Ask for a lift? Or even pick up a second-hand bike cheaply and cycle? There are plenty of ways to get from point A to B without breaking the bank. If you don’t fancy racking up your steps, most transport providers will have student schemes you can take advantage of to save money on your journey.
Sell Old Clothes and Textbooks to Make Extra Cash
Websites like eBay, Depop and Vinted can be a gold mine for your unused items and clothing. Rather than letting them gather dust or throwing them in the bin, you can put them up for sale and make money on items you no longer need. Dig through your old things (both at your student accommodation and your home) and see what you can get rid of. You never know what could be a serious money maker.
