As a student, you know that money can be tight. That student loan is a lifesaver, but it is likely to disappear if you’re not careful. Saving is a real challenge in today’s economy.

With the cost of everything seemingly on the rise, how do you hold onto those precious pounds before day-to-day expenses gobble them up?

Check out our quick guide to managing your wallet and your lifestyle, in order to make that loan last right through till the end of 2019…

5. Budgeting
Are you looking after your money properly? Do you splash out on unnecessary items more than you should, or do you always get the rounds in at the union bar?

Here’s the thing. You can’t be a monk when it comes to spending. But learning to budget is a crucial first step toward getting that loan to last.

There is a range of apps available to help you balance the books if numbers aren’t your strong suit. Money Dashboard for example gives you a great financial overview.

Knowing about your ingoings and outgoings means you can make better decisions, when doing everything from buying a coffee to opening a bill!

4. Income
The reality for many students is a loan on its own isn’t enough to survive on. You need a part time job in order to top up your income.

This is a no brainer. If you haven’t already, look into the various options you have for employment. These could include agency work, or working on campus.

It’s never been easier to do part time work from home, should you have the right skills. Platforms such as Upwork provide access to lots of career-focused jobs.

Spare cash is always welcome. For instance, you can pick up bits and pieces of income by completing online surveys, which reward you for offering your opinions.

3. Check out how you shop
Unless you’re living on value brand beans on toast day after day, you’ve no doubt noticed the escalating price of the daily or weekly shop.

Shop smarter. Price comparison sites show you where the cheapest items are being sold and where. Keeping on top of the latest deals is a must. There is a comparison site for everything these days, even fitness gear!

A quick tip is to shop later, preferably at night. Essentials such as bread are vastly reduced. Also frozen or tinned fruit and veg are a cost effective alternative to fresh.

Cashback is a great way of being paid to purchase. Simply click on the links for companies like TopCashback and Quidco as you check out and wait for your reward.

2. Friends and finance
A big part of student life is socialising, and with that comes a hefty price tag. Studying in a major city means nightclubs and takeaways at every turn!

Save money with your mates.Stay in and stream with an entertainment package from Amazon Prime Student. Avoid pricey pizzas by making your own dinner.

When you do go out, pick a cheap-as-chips night that lets you hang out without shelling out big time. A local pub quiz is a good option for this.

You’re all in the same boat, so why not work together to take the strain off your wallet and that rapidly disappearing student loan…?

1. Student discounts
If you haven’t heard, then being a student makes you a target for retailers and companies eager to share a wealth of discounts.

It’s so easy. Start by picking up a TOTUM card, which gives you access to deals on things like nights out and fashionable gear.

Travel can take chunks out of your finances on a regular basis. Get a 16-25 Railcard to knock a third off fares, or walk to your destination if possible.

Student discounts are being updated all the time. It’s good to check in daily to see the latest way of protecting your ever-dwindling loan.