By Hannah Parker, BA (Hons) Business and Enterprise Management.
A large part of being at university is budgeting and learning how to manage your money – it can be so hard to keep on top of things! So here are a few of the ways I manage my money to help you out.
- Try not to go into your overdraft
If I can avoid it then I don’t go into my overdraft. The repayments and interest aren’t worth it! You can always get a job in your spare time to earn some extra cash (there’s plenty of spare time at uni!!)
- Keep a budget
I find that an easy way to keep track of my budget is on my notes on my phone as I always have my phone on me, so I put it in as soon as I spend it. Or you could try a budgeting app – there are loads to choose from. For some people, a budget book can be really beneficial as long as you make sure to keep on top of it!
- Create a meal plan
Having a meal plan makes it easier to know what food to buy, and I don’t buy food that goes to waste. Being able to meal plan will help you to keep organised and stay healthy too.
- Take cash on nights out
When I have night out – whether that’s in a bar or a club or even the cinema – I leave my bank card at home and disable Apple Pay as it stops me from overspending. I budget in advance for how much I want to spend and just take cash out, then when it’s gone – it’s gone!
- Divide up your maintenance loan
A good way to plan what you’re spending is to split up your loan and give yourself a certain amount to spend each week. This way you won’t find yourself short of cash a month down the line.
I hope this helps you to budget a bit better and save some money! I know this has helped me.
If you enjoyed this post, then be sure to check out my personal blog all about my student life in Sheffield and lots of tips and tricks to student life. Find it at www.myunilife.co.uk
You can also follow my Instagram – @myunilifeinsheffield
