Summer on a budget when you’re a student

Save for summer

One of the best things about being a student is the long summer holidays. It’s often said you should make the most of the time but it can be difficult when you don’t have lots of surplus cash to do so. We’ve created a little guide / series of tips to help you make the most of the summer break on a small budget.

What’s on guides or things to do near me

You will be surprised by how many free events take place during the summer. From pop-up markets to cultural activities and lots more. Local what’s on guides are a great place to start to find out what is happening in your city or locations close to you.

Summer Staycations

If a holiday abroad isn’t doable for you and your bank balance this summer, don’t worry. You may be able to get some last minute deals, with group bookings working out cheaper for you and your friends. Alternatively you can enjoy a staycation in a number of UK cities, including:  London, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Exeter, Newcastle, Coventry and Cambridge.  

Visit your uni friends

Bond with your university friends this summer by  making plans to meet up. Take a road trip to their home time and make some of the best memories! There are various travel options available even offering student discounts.

Camping- Most campsites charge somewhere between £5 and £20 per night. If you already have a tent or can borrow one, great, but if not, a £50 tent will more than do!

Glamping-  If you’re not a fan of pitching tents, there are loads of glamping sites or cabins across the country too. Take a look on Air BnB for some great deals.

Set a weekly budget!

To manage your spending, a good idea is to set yourself a weekly budget. This way you can manage your money all whilst enjoying a well-deserved summer break. Take advantage of student discount to help minimise your spending and don’t forget some of the best money hacks to help you.

GAIN VALUABLE WORK EXPERIENCE AND Earn some extra cash this Summer

Earning some extra cash during the summer break may be on your to do list. There are plenty of options available that can boost your CV and fund your summer plans. So, here are a few ideas to give you some inspiration.

JOOBLE 

Check out Jooble for full-time, part-time and even remote opportunities during the summer break.

Barcats 

If you are staying in London or Leeds this summer, Barcats is the go to hospitality platform that helps finds you the perfect role by matching your skills and interests.

Paid summer internships

They might not be easy to come by, but if you can bag yourself a summer internship, you will not only earn some extra cash for the summer, but valuable skills and experience. Focus on the companies you’d love to work for after uni. Have a look at their websites to see if they advertise summer internships. If they do, check whether there’s still time to apply. If not, contact them directly!

Work at a festival

If you are the type of person who loves festivals, working at one could be for you.  Handing out wristbands and cleaning up litter may not be ideal, but worth the free ticket that you would otherwise pay for.

become a downing students’ Content Creator 

Staying with Downing Students’ next year? Earn yourself rewards by documenting your favourite summer activities, day in the life routines and more!

Make money online

 De-clutter your wardrobe ahead of next term and earn cash in the process by selling your unwanted clothes. Thrift Plus does all the work for you by sending you a Thrift+ bag to fill, post and resell your items.

Summer Activities on a budget

Not sure what to do this summer? Try these activities!

Volunteering

Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities that can be a great way to give back to your community while also gaining valuable experience.

Learn a new skill

Use your free time to develop a new skill or hobby. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available for free. Whether that is coding, cooking, painting- you can learn something new without spending a lot.

Artisan Markets

There are so many artisan markets around that provide a unique opportunity to explore local arts, crafts and culture. They are free to attend and you can help support local communities by supporting their independent businesses.

Visit museums and art galleries

Many museums and art galleries offer discounted or free entry for students, especially on specific days or during certain hours. Take advantage to explore art, history and culture.

 Whatever you are up to this summer, share you summer hot spots with us by tagging @downing_students