We know food shopping whilst at university can be expensive and can eat into your student budget, so we’ve put together a list of some essential top tips for saving money whilst still enjoying your food.
1. Swap fresh for frozen!
Frozen food is a student’s best friend, it’s both cheaper and has a longer self-life so it’s a double bonus. Did you know that frozen chicken is half the price of fresh chicken? Imagine how much you could save in a year. Don’t forget about frozen fruit and vegetables as well.
2. Plan Plan Plan!
Always take a shopping list with you to the shops, this will keep you on track and stop you being tempted by things you don’t need. Also, it’s a good idea to plan meals in advance so you only need to do one food shop a week, making budgeting a lot easier.
3. Don’t shop on an empty stomach!
Shopping when hungry never ends well. Shop after a meal and you’ll be less likely to impulse buy food.
4. Shop in the evening!
Supermarkets reduced food daily but it’s all about knowing when to go. For most supermarkets around 7pm is a good time to look for reduced items but if you’re really serious about getting some good bargains then speak to a staff member at your nearest store.
5. Membership!
Signing up to store membership is a great way of hearing about the latest offers whilst gaining points that can be used for store discounts.
6. Batch cooking!
Cook in large batches, for example make a spaghetti bolognese and then divide it into portions and freeze, then all you have to do is defrost and enjoy. Easy, simple and cheap.
7. Never buy a 5p plastic bag
It may seem like a small amount but buying bags every time you go shopping soon adds up. Take a reusable bag to the shops and you’ll not only save the planet you’ll save money too.
8. Brands!
Try to avoid brands they usually offer exactly the same product as a supermarket own brand for triple the cost. Don’t waste money on branded products shop smart and avoid big brands.
9. Price match!
Lots of supermarkets now price match one another, so you never need to worry about spending more because if you do they will give you the difference in store vouchers.
Why not also check out our blogs for more food ideas and recipes?