Managing money as a student isn’t always easy - especially when everyday costs seem to add up so quickly. Whether it’s learning to stretch your student loan or just avoiding those end-of-month panic moments, most of us are figuring it out as we go. 

This month, we asked some of our Student Experience Assistants to share what really works for them - the small, realistic habits that help make their money go further without feeling like they’re missing out.  

Plan ahead and shop smart 

"I usually try to make my lunches and coffees at home whenever I can. Those £4 coffees and £7 lunches really add up, and snacks and meals are always going to be cheaper when you buy the ingredients at a supermarket - plus they’ll usually do you multiple days too!” - Cara Morgan, BSc Psychology (Year 2)  

"Pack lunch, snacks or bring coffee made at home in a travel mug - it can help save a few pounds each day, which really adds up.” - Emma Johnston 

“Plan ahead for groceries to encourage cooking instead of buying takeout. Likewise, planning lunches helps avoid meal deals, and using Tesco Clubcard or Nectar cards gets regular groceries at a discount.” - Shona McMahon, BSc Business Information Technology (Year 3) 

"One thing that helps me is using food waste or discount apps like Olio, and supermarket loyalty apps like Lidl Plus and Tesco Clubcard - they cut down my weekly food costs without much effort.” - Pinar Özdemir, MSc Marketing

Track your spending  

"I use Revolut to budget my ‘fun’ money each week since I have problems with impulse buying. It helps me visualise my spending while still keeping money aside for essentials.” - Cara 

"Try to stick to a weekly budget and avoid spontaneous purchases. I separate my rent and other expenses from my fun spending money to make sure all bills are covered.” - Shona 

“I use Monzo pots - allocating amounts of money and sticking to my allowance. I also try to set aside a small amount for emergencies.” - Emma

 

Enjoy Belfast on a budget 

"For food, I really like Boojum and Umi Falafel on Botanic Avenue - both are great value for the portion sizes. Belfast also has great charity shops, especially around Botanic and Lisburn Road, where you can find second-hand clothes for much cheaper than buying new.” - Pinar 

"For a night out, Union Bar is really good — especially on a Friday when they have discounted prices on some drinks and food. For free outings, Belfast Castle, Ulster Museum and Shaw’s Bridge are great options.” - Priyal Patel, BSc Biomedical Science (Final Year) 

Save without missing out 

"It’s worth it to be social and not feel bad about spending money, but it’s always worth having a conversation with friends if activities are too expensive. Everyone’s financial situation is different - and if they’re a good friend, they’ll understand that.” - Cara 

"For me, it’s about choosing what actually matters instead of feeling like I need to spend on everything. Enjoying uni life doesn’t always require spending - a lot of the good moments come from being with people or exploring the city.” - Pinar 

"I try to find places that accept student discounts - like dinner or drinks at Post House. Cooking at home means I can still afford the things I want to do.” - Emma 

 

Final thoughts 

It’s easy to assume budgeting means cutting back, but as these students show, it’s more about finding what works for you. Planning ahead, spending mindfully, and using the tools already available - from loyalty cards to budgeting apps - can make student life a little easier (and a lot less stressful). 

If you’d like more support or resources, check out: 

• • The Pantry: Free Refill Station 
  • Money Advice 
  • Student Living Costs 

Remember - it’s not about having everything figured out. It’s about finding the small things that make your everyday life work a little better.