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So, you’re new to uni and it’s the first time you’ve had to think about managing your finances? We hear you! Budgeting is hard, no matter your age or situation, so arming yourself with a few tips on how to cut costs and save money is always a bonus.
Below are five simple ways to curb spending and stick to your budget now you’ve got settled into your brand-new student accommodation in Leeds…
Preparing food at home is so much cheaper than eating out or relying on takeouts. Try to plan your meals for the week, make a shopping list, and buy ingredients in bulk to save at the checkout.
You can batch-make pasta dishes, curries and casseroles, store them in the freezer until you need them, and then pop them in the microwave when it’s time to eat. Bringing your own lunch and snacks to campus can also prevent you from spending money on expensive food options throughout the day. Don’t get me wrong, we all love a treat from time to time, so plan a takeout night or a pub meal with friends - as long as you’ve planned and budgeted for it, you can enjoy a guilt-free night of delicious food.
A large majority of Leeds-based stores, restaurants, gyms, cafes and entertainment outlets offer discounts for students, but you often have to ask for them. Keep your student ID handy and don’t be shy about inquiring when it comes to getting the bill, even if the discount is not promoted on the menu or anywhere in the store.
There are also a few student websites and apps that specialise in student discounts, like UNiDAYS and Student Beans, where you can find deals on everything from clothing to tech goods.
According to a recent survey, the average person is spending around £530 on takeout coffee each year - this equates to 3 takeout coffees per week! If this sounds like you, then it’s time to purchase an insulated flask and start making your own.
Whether you’re a tea, coffee or hot chocolate drinker, making your own brew is quicker, cheaper and likely to stay warmer for longer too! Just think of what you could spend that extra £500 on!
You know the old saying that there’s no such thing as a free lunch? Well, that’s not entirely true. When you’re a student in Leeds, there are lots of things you can do that require no investment whatsoever. Look for free events on campus, like movie nights, concerts, or club activities. And, also look out for free exhibitions at local museums such as Leeds Art Gallery, The Royal Armouries Museum and Leeds City Museum. They often host events specifically for students, which can be a fun and affordable way to socialise.
Websites such as Trash Nothing and Facebook Marketplace are great for seeking out free stuff that people no longer want, and you can search by your local Leeds area to make sure you don’t have far to go to pick things up. You can also enter competitions to win things like restaurant vouchers, clothing, beauty and travel packages on social media channels such as Instagram. Way more competitions are popping up on the feeds nowadays and someone’s got to win after all!
Also, be sure to use free campus resources like libraries, gyms, and computer labs instead of paying for off-campus services and borrow textbooks from the library or look for free online versions to aid your studies.
When you do really need to buy something, look for second-hand or pre-loved items instead of new, full-priced options.
There are some great stores in Leeds that are championing the pre-loved revolution, such as Revive/Reuse, Blue Rinse, Second Time Around and Slate Furniture to name just a few. From clothing to furniture, there are second-hand options for most things on your shopping list.
Instead of buying new textbooks, which can be costly, you can also consider buying used ones from online platforms or local bookstores. You can even rent textbooks and share them with classmates can save you a significant amount of money.
Hopefully, you’ve picked up a few tips to help you save money this term. Remember to now check out our other blog articles for more help and advice on being a student in Leeds.