How to win the balance
It’s that time of year again. The clocks have gone back, the winter wardrobe has returned and our summer blues have well and truly kicked in.
And what a summer it was. You lit up Instagram, smashed the ‘gap yah’ and freshers was…..an experience. But now you just can’t bare to face the bank balance. Sound familiar? Let’s face it, you’re not alone.
Just because the dark evenings are arriving a little too early now, doesn’t mean you have to give up on an active social life. Putting money worries aside, here are some of the events we’ve got our eye on this winter…
WINTER EVENT HIGHLIGHTS: WHY YOU DON’T HAVE TO MISS OUT
Burn Down the Disco - An old school party, with a twist. Every Saturday night at 02 Academy Islington. Open until 18th December
Bogan Bingo – Think Bingo is boring? Think again! Bogan Bingo. A unique night of entertainment delivered by two trailer trash bingo callers with a passion for 80’s and 90’s anthems. Head on over to The Slug at Fulham to get involved.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year – Professional & amateur photographers display work for the 52nd year. One not to miss! Adult £10.50 – £13.50.
The Royale – Six rounds of gripping boxing theatre production. 4 – 26th November, Westbourne. From £12.50.
Winter Wonderland – Opens 18th November until January. Free to enter so expect queues! Once you’re in though you’ll be sure to get that Christmas spirit boost you’ve been waiting for!
Christmas Market – The Urban Makers East Christmas Market bring over 50 local designers to the masses. 10th & 11th December, Ecology Pavilion Mile End Park.
TOP SAVING TIPS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
Okay, so you now have a very packed social calendar. Work hard and play harder is how it should be! It’s not just the parties, in the run up to Christmas there are all sorts of costs that rack up for…
Meals out or after - work drinks, nights out or Christmas parties, buying Christmas presents, secret Santa’s and treat for yourself. All whilst having enough money for the weekly basics of course!
But do not fear – here are some top-saving tips to give you a helping hand:
Limit the Coffee Spend.
Contactless is bliss…tap-tap-tap-tap. Too easy! Before you know it your bank statement shows nothing but a long list of skinny latte’s and caramel cookies. Where did all the money go?! If like us, you’re prone to life’s little treats, then the best tip is to budget for this. Withdraw it in cash at the start of each week and stay disciplined!
Shop wisely
If you don’t know it yet, student discount websites should be your shopping bible. Sites like UNIDAYS & Student Beans offer great online discounts and the likes of Taste Card or Hot UK Deals, can get you and your friends a cheap bite in a tasty place.
De-clutter
Are your wardrobes filled to the brim? Perhaps it’s time to de-clutter prior to Christmas. Not only will you get some wardrobe space back, but you could also earn some money through selling on sites like eBay or the new Facebook shop.
Apps. Apps. Apps.
There’s an app for everything these days, and of course there’s more than plenty to help you manage your money. Take Monzo for example. This app enables you to update your balance instantly, gives intelligent notifications, and is actually easy to use!
But no matter how much budgeting you do, how much scrimping and saving, it’s always nice to have a little extra pocket money. And this is where GIG comes in…
Download on the App Store or Google Play and begin your search. Now, get out there and enjoy yourself!