Being a student is hard work!!
According to latest figures, students in the UK sleep for an average of 18 hours a day – which is hardly surprising considering around 93% of all alcohol consumed in this country is downed by thirsty undergraduates.
Exhausting endeavours, I’m sure you’ll agree.
Of course, the above statements are fabricated. I’ve lied to you, and I apologise. However, the actual realities of modern student life – especially financially – can begin to bite quickly if you’re not properly prepared.
Read on to discover some top tips for keeping a few extra quid in your wallet, while still experiencing all the excitement that student life has to offer.
Don’t blow your load too quickly
The day your student loan hits your bank account is a joyous occasion, and your plans to live like a rockstar suddenly come to fruition – for a few days at least. Yep, it’s tempting to go bananas with a big wad of cash, but blowing it now means you’ll be living on stereotypical student meals until your next payment. Save your big celebrations for the end of term.
Get your hands on a student discount card
Save yourself a small fortune and invest in an NUS Extra discount card, attractively priced at just £12. The card offers student discounts with over 140 retailers, online and in store, and can save you 10-20% on some items. Popular stores such as Miss Selfridge, Warehouse, Superdrug and Pizza Hut are all part of the scheme. Get involved.
Cut your insurance costs
Whatever method of transport you use to get to university and back, when the day comes to find affordable car or moped insurance, it can be a living nightmare. After all, the average insurance cost for a 17-22 year old male is an eye-watering £2800. That’s why it pays to use a site with a built-in comparison tool, which ensures you always receive the best deal. Otherwise, it’ll be a few years of public transport for you, my friend.
Bring down your mobile bill
We live in a mobile world, that much is obvious – but being a student means it’s crucial to keep an eye on your phone bill to avoid a trek to the telephone box to call your parents for a cash injection. Fear not, though, there are numerous ways you can find the cheapest tariffs and leading handsets. Check out comparison sites such as Billmonitor and MobilePhoneChecker to find a deal to suit your budget.
Happy saving – and if you have any other moneysaving suggestions for new or existing students, please leave a comment in the box below.