Money saving tips
Advice from the Money Doctors on how to make your money go further.
Books Cut the costs of books by buying second-hand at the campus bookshop or advertised on bill boards in schools, on eBay, Amazon or by borrowing from the library. You can also share the cost of expensive books with friends on the same course or each buy one book off the reading list.
Budget! Budgeting can make your money last a lot longer through keeping track of your income and expenditure. Our online budget planner will help you download a copy here: link to budget planner
Clothes To cut costs on clothes consider buying from charity shops, street markets factory discount outlets or shop in the sales.
Food It’s cheaper to eat and drink with friends at home than to go out, ask everyone to bring some food and drink to share.
Getting Fit Local authorities often offer access to gyms, sports, swimming that are much cheaper than joining a health club. Check out the Universities Gym located on the Avery Hill Campus, costing as little as 26p a day – www.gre.ac.uk/about/sports
NUS Extra Card Purchase a NUS extra student discount card which can saves you money on books, clothes, travel, gigs, eating out and much more. Always ask whether discounts are given for students with NUS Extra cards. NUS Extra costs just £11 and is available from www.nus.org.uk/NUS-Extra.
Sales Plan ahead to buy expensive items like furniture, duvets and electrical items in sales.
Shop around Some shops/supermarkets are cheaper than others. Take advantage of “3 for the price of 2” and “Buy one get one free” offers. Try own-label products that are cheaper than branded goods. Don’t shop for food when you are hungry as you will end up buying expensive snack items. Take a list and stick to it.
Travel Walk, cycle or share lifts rather than pay for buses, trains and taxis. Buy season tickets for regular journeys and take advantage of off-peak prices. Students 18+ can purchase an Oyster photo card which will entitle them to a 30% discount on adult travel cards.
Utilities Find out if you could save money on your household bill by switching suppliers, get general advice and free price comparisons online.
Watching T.V Student must buy a TV license, even if they are living in halls – it’s cheaper than being caught without one!