10 top tips to help students save money
1. Be bills savvy
Take meter readings to ensure you're paying the right rates. Next, set the heating on a timer so the gas bill stays small. And don't forget to turn electric appliances and lights off when you're not using them - it might not seem like a big deal but it's dangerous for your purse...and the planet!
2. Get sharing
Share the cost of food that's cheaper in bulk, such as tea, crisps and pasta. Also consider sharing things like milk and salad that spoil quickly, to avoid excess waste.
3. Discover your inner child
Instead of spending money on clubbing, try digging out your old board games and set up that Monopoly or Game of Life tournament! Alternatively, pick up your old favourites from Argos.
4. Work for your attire
If your student loan always ends up inside your wardrobe, consider getting a part time job in your favourite clothes shop. You'll get a hefty discount, a wage, and about 75% off every three months to buy uniform.
5. Look after the pennies...
Get a piggy bank (Totally Funky have a good selection) and start saving. When it's full, head to a Coinstar machine and watch your pennies turn into pounds! Find your nearest machine here.
Even if you can't see a 'student discount' sign, it's worth askingRebecca Gould
6. Do the trade off
Bored of your old CDs, DVDs and video games? Trade them in at www.cex.co.uk where you can exchange your old trash for someone else's hidden treasures!
7. Get a railcard
£20 might seem like a lot but a Young Person's Railcard will pay for itself in one trip to see your mum, and you'll find it invaluable for keeping in touch with your mates in different cities.
8. Join the local library
Not only full of dreaded study guides, you'll also find your local library packed with DVDs, novels and CDs which you can borrow for a measly sum.
9. Max out your student card
Make sure you're getting all the student discounts available. Loads of high street stores offer money off, like Topshop, HMV and Subway. Even if you can't see a 'student discount' sign it's worth asking wherever you go as many places just don't publicise it.
10. And....join studentbeans.com!
Student Beans is the best place to save money as a student with country-wide offers and cool discounts. Register now!
