Top 5 Money Savings Tips for Students in Manchester

 Although it was only a couple of years ago, it feels like a lifetime ago that I was a student in Manchester. Between visiting my friends in other cities and traveling from uni to home every other weekend, money was tight whilst studying and tightening the purse strings was necessary. However, having always had a love for our hometown and being proud of my Manuncian roots, it became a hobby of mine to find the best deals in and around the city, and tips and tricks for getting by around the local area. Although I’m now working full time, I still use some of these tips and tricks today to keep me on track and help me save up for holidays and big girl life purchases. So, if you’re in the same boat as I was when I was younger, I’ve collated my Top 5 Money Savings Tips for Students in Manchester.

1. Shop around: I have included this top tip in other money saving tips (including my top tips for Christmas shopping), but it really is the one tip I use the most. Whether it’s shoes or food, taking a look in a couple of different shops (or on different websites!) for the best deal won’t take much longer but could save you a good amount of money. For instance, see some shoes you like in Topshop? Have a look in Primark for some similar; they’ll be a third of the price and the fast fashion shops are pretty quick at getting dupes out there for the money-savvy student.
2. Time your social events precisely: no, I don’t mean keep a strict tab on how long you stay out for (heck, that’s half the fun of being a student!) but if you want to pop out for a meal, consider going out for lunch instead of dinner. Most restaurants offer a reduced price lunch menu before 5pm which means you can eat like a Queen on a peasant’s budget. Similarly, fancy a couple of drinks out? Make sure you head out just in time for cocktail hour –buy one get one free, Cosmos? Yes please!
3. Free days out: I know, I know, this one might seem like something your Mum would tell you to do, but trust me, there are tons of free days out to be hand in Manchester! We have a whole host of amazing museums and art galleries here (my favourites are the Museum of Science and Industry and the Whitworth Art Gallery) that are worth explorring. We also have some beautiful outdoor space (including Heaton Park) and the new Library in St Peter’s Square is a beautiful place to visit, even if you’re not keen on reading.
4. Walk: There’s also a lot of places you can get to by foot. As well as the free Metroshuttle buses around the city, most of the main attractions can be reached on your own two feet. Manchester is a big city but Manchester is a big city but it’s totally do-able to walk from side to side across the day (especially when you’ve got your raincoat on – just in case we get a bout of our famous weather)!
5. Enjoy yourself: Finally, don’t let money woes take over your time as a student. I know it can be hard – trust me, I’ve been there – but you don’t have to live life totally on a shoestring and there are things you can do to help yourself. For instance, look for a job in your local Student’s Union; they are pretty flexible with people as they’re totally familiar with student lifestyles and it will help to add a little cash to your pocket – plus, there could be worse places to work!

My Top 5 Money Savings Tips for Students in Manchester have been inspired by Ticketclever who have produced the below handy infographic to help you student readers save money in a variety of ways, including app and website suggestions, life-hacks, and local knowledge.