UH Student News

With living costs continuing to rise across the UK, University of Hertfordshire students are actively looking for new strategies to manage their day-to-day expenses. From discounted travel choices to budget-friendly shopping habits, many students need essential, and practical choices to stay afloat during the cost-of-living crisis.

Here are some hacks to help you cut down on your spending habits:

Walking as an alternative to rising bus fares

As bus prices increase, one of the quickest ways to save money is simply walking short distances, rather than talking public transport. Trips between College Lane, de Havilland and most nearby accommodations are totally walkable.

Although, there are days when walking seems like the last option or the distance is just way too far. In these circumstances, the best way to save money is to check Uno’s discounted options and caps: https://www.unobus.info/

Switch to budget supermarkets (and shop at the best time)

Aldi and Asda are your best options for cheap weekly food shops. Going for own-brand items and by checking out the yellow-sticker reductions in the evenings, will make a dramatic difference to your weekly expenses.

Aldi Hatfield – https://stores.aldi.co.uk/hertfordshire/hatfield

Asda Hatfield – https://storelocator.asda.com/hertfordshire/hatfield

Use Campus facilities to cut energy bills

Heating your accommodation is a habit that drains your budget each week, my advice is to make use of campus spaces. UH libraries have free heating, charging points and hot water. UH students can make use of this by staying here when they’re studying, whilst also saving money.

Library access:https://www.herts.ac.uk/study/learning-facilities/learning-resources-centres/visitors

Grab every single student discount you can

Apps like UNIDAYS and Student Beans are lifesavers when making essential purchases on a budget. Both apps offer discounts on almost everything from food, clothes, tech, stationary. The Galleria often has student deals, so keep an eye out for them too!

Download here:

UNIDAYS – https://www.myunidays.com/

Student Beans – https://www.studentbeans.com/

Local deals at the Galleria – https://thegalleria.co.uk/blogs/offers

Do not buy textbooks new, go second-hand or digital

We all know that textbooks are expensive, but you almost never need to buy them brand new. Check the UH library’s e-books or buy second-hand from older students on apps such as Ebay.

Library search: https://library.herts.ac.uk

Ebay – https://www.ebay.co.uk

If you are struggling, turn to UH’s support funds

Lots of students don’t realise the university has financial help at your fingertips. If you’re facing difficulties with food, rent, travel, or essentials, the Financial Assistance Fund or Short-term Assistance Grant can help.

Here’s where to access them:  https://www.herts.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/financial-support