We know that money and budgeting while you’re at University can be stressful, and by this point in the term your bank account might be struggling a little. A great way to save some money is to make sure you’re making the most of the discounts on offer to you – there’s probably more than you think!
There’s so many different ways you can get student discount, on everything from fashion, to food, and days out – so we’ve rounded up some of the best.
UNiDAYS & Student Beans
Creating an account on UNiDAYS is completely free – all you need to do is verify your student status when you sign up. Through UNiDAYS, you can get discounts on most big brands – Topshop, ASOS, Adidas… the list goes on. This will normally give you 10% off, however they have deals throughout the year that will give you more – so keep your eyes peeled!
Student Beans is similar, but has a few discounts that UNiDAYS doesn’t, such as The Perfume Shop and Iceland.
TOTUM card
A TOTUM card (which used to be called an NUS card) gives you access to a load of discounts, including places like Co-Op, Boots, and even CrossCountry trains – and you can keep it in your pocket rather than on your phone!
You’ll also get an ISIC (International Student Identity Card) with it, meaning you can also access student discounts while you’re abroad. You’ll need to pay for a TOTUM card, but the discounts will be worth it. One year will cost you £14.99, or you can get a three year card for £34.99.
Tastecard
A Tastecard will give you discounts to hundreds of restaurants – you can get either 50% off or 2-for-1 at 116 restaurants in Manchester alone!
You will need to pay for a Tastecard, but with TOTUM or Student Beans, you can get a 2 month free trial, and then £30 off an annual membership if you decide to carry on.
If you’d like to cut down on the amount you’re spending on food, there are hundreds of discounts and ways to cut your costs.
Olio – One of the best ways to save money on food whilst reducing waste is through apps like Olio. Not only can you eat for free, you’re also doing your bit for the environment by reducing food waste!
The app connects local retailers and cafes (including Pret and Friska), with people living locally so that food is given out to others rather than going to landfill. You can also share food with your neighbours through the app – either see what they’re giving away, or share the food that you’re not going to eat yourself.
Shop after 6pm: if you’re spending too much on your food shop, try going to the supermarket after 6pm. Most supermarkets will begin heavily reducing any food items that they need to get rid of by the end of the day – you can find food that’s reduced by up to 75%.
Reusable cups: if you buy hot drinks from cafes, another way to save money whilst also helping the environment is to always bring a reusable coffee cup with you. You can normally get about 25p off each drink you buy if you use your own cup.
If you fancy eating out instead, you can save using your UNiDAYS and Student Beans accounts, as well as your TOTUM card! Here are some of the best deals…
Bella Italia – up to 50% off Monday-Thursday, and after 5pm Sunday
Pizza Express – 30% off Food and Drink, Sunday – Thursday
Zizzi – 30% off, Sunday – Thursday
Byron Burger – 30% off every day
ASK Italian – 30% off, Sunday – Thursday
Prezzo – 25% off Sunday – Thursday
Frankie & Benny’s – 25% off every day
Chiquito – 25% off food, every day
Tapas Revolution – 50% off food every Monday
Las Iguanas – 40% off food Sunday – Thursday
Carluccio’s – 25% off food Sunday – Thursday