University life has big costs — but smart habits can cut spending without missing out on social events.
How Students Are Saving Money
Erin, a psychology and cognitive neuroscience student at the University of Nottingham, manages her spending with real-world habits.
Over two years, she’s earned free event tickets, sold secondhand clothes, and shared discounts with friends to stay within budget.
Volunteering for Free Perks
Erin volunteered at festivals like the Truck festival in Oxfordshire.
Her shift ended just as the support act finished — letting her see the main act in person.
As a brand rep for a racecourse event agency, she earned a free ticket and transport by promoting events through social media and group chats.
Turning Fashion into a Side Hustle
Erin buys quality clothes from charity shops and upcycles them before selling on platforms like Vinted.
She made £200 from selling secondhand clothes in one weekend — showing how small efforts can bring real income.
Using Budgeting and Real-World Comparisons
Before university, Erin worked and saved — giving her a clear sense of how much things cost.
If she goes over her budget, she must use savings from her job.
She says every saved pound is not available for spending — it’s saved for future goals like a college ski trip.
Practical Money-Saving Tips from a Student
- Think in hours, not pounds: Before buying something, calculate how many hours of work it would take to afford it. A few cocktails can equal over an hour’s pay.
- Volunteer for freebies: Many festivals and events hire volunteers. Erin joined Festaff and Wicked Events to gain free access to events and perks.
- Pool rewards with friends: Combine discounts and vouchers with housemates or friends to get better value and reduce daily spending.
- Look for university brand ambassador roles: Many universities offer student roles as brand reps for clubs, venues, and events — often with free access or perks.
- Use student bank accounts with rewards: Erin uses a student account that gives a £10 Just Eat voucher monthly for the first 12 months.
Why This Matters
Research from Nationwide Building Society shows money mistakes are top regrets for students.
Common issues include overspending, poor budgeting, and overreliance on overdrafts — all leading to financial stress.
Erin’s habits show that simple, realistic steps can help students manage money well.
Source: The Guardian — ‘Watch your spending, use free perks’: an insider’s tips on student money
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Featured image: Treasurer Brad Briner Visit Student Money Management Press Conference-16.jpg by Wake Technical Community College, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image source · License
