1. Bring your own lunch and snacks/learn to cook
This is the biggest and probably the most effective tip on the list. Planning your meals, taking in lunch and snacks and having a solid grocery routine can save you a lot of money. Even if you think you’re getting all the best deals when you’re eating out, just going for a meal deal around campus can cost you up to £20 a week!
2. Oyster/travel cards
Getting a student oyster card will allow you to purchase travel cards at discounted prices — you can save 30 per cent on adult-rate travel cards and bus & tram pass season tickets.
3. Live out, out
If you find yourself really struggling to make ends meet, it might be worthwhile considering accommodation further out from campus, and commuting in. Rent always gets cheaper the further out you live from the centre of London, and with a student travel card you may be able to make a real difference to your budget.
4. Try not to buy books
Books will likely be essential for your course, but before you splurge on them, you might want to check out the library’s extensive collection. If you don’t find what you need there, try searching for second-hand options online before buying a brand new copy. Equally, when you no longer need the book, you might want to try re-selling it to next year’s students!
5. Student discounts
If you do eat out (everyone should be able to treat themselves once in a while) register for a TOTUM card (what was the NUS card), UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and any other services offering deals for students. Use them when you shop, eat and socialise as they will also save you money!
6. Budgeting
Planning your expenses is a good practice in general, and university is the perfect time to get really good at it. Find a time at the beginning of each month to sit down and figure out your upcoming spending — it’ll take the stress out of the end of the month if you know you’ve got a planned out budget to stick to.
7. Part-time job
See if you can squeeze some part-time employment into your schedule. Our Student Union – as well as a lot of places not far from campus – are always looking for part time staff during the academic year. If you really want to stay flexible with your time, why not pick up a few shifts from Qtemps?
8. If you really need that iced coffee, why not get it in a reusable cup?
I’m human too and I have my weaknesses, one of them being an iced latte. Whenever this weakness does overcome me, I make sure I have my reusable travel mug with me. Most places will offer you a 20-25 per cent discount if you bring your own container, and you’ll be helping the planet too!