Savings tips for students
University is often the first time students have to deal with budgeting and bills. Here are some tips to help you make your money go further.
Budgeting and paying bills
While budgeting may seem boring, it can go a long way to help make sure you don’t get behind. Make a note of when rent or bill money’s due to come out and set the money aside as soon as you get paid.
You might also like to keep a spending diary to give you a better idea of where your money’s going and where you could cut down.
Compare and switch
Shop around to see if you’re getting the best deal for your phone, utilities and broadband.
Switching to a lower usage plan could help to reduce monthly payments too. Lots of people pay for mobile phone data and minutes that may go unused at the end of every month.
Saving on food and groceries
Money spent on food and drink can quickly add up so it’s good to know what you’re spending and where you could cut down (link to budgeting tips/spending diary). You might want to:
- plan your meals and write a shopping list (try to stick to it!)
- look for home brand products and special offers in-store
- buy in bulk once a fortnight
- make lunch instead of buying it
- have a dinner party and get everyone to bring a dish
- look for deals at local pubs and restaurants. Many of these have student nights or will do two for one on main meals on quieter nights of the week.