January on a Student Budget

You've been chanting “January! I start stronger than Mike Tyson” but you're suffering from financial hangover after obleeing all through the festive season.

Don't worry, we listen, we don't judge, we proffer solutions. January doesn’t have to be all about indomie noodles and empty pockets. With a few smart tricks, we'll show you how to survive January on a student budget.

1. Stick to a Realistic Budget (Seriously)

The first rule of surviving January is creating a budget you can actually stick to. It’s tempting to make big promises about cutting out all non-essential spending, but let’s be real, you're probably going to need that occasional treat. Instead of cancelling out on fun, make a list of your non-negotiable expenses (rent, bills, groceries) and then decide how much you can allocate to things like food delivery, or online shopping. Remember, it’s about balance, not deprivation.

2. Cook Like a Pro (or at Least Try)

Eating and ordering out every day is a luxury, not a student lifestyle. But January is the perfect month to embrace your inner chef. Opt for budget-friendly meals that go a long way. Things like pasta, rice, and beans, can be transformed into a week’s worth of meals. If you need some extra help, read our blog post on cooking on a budget. This will fill your stomach without draining your wallet.

3. Find Free or Cheap Entertainment

January can feel a little scratch that very  slow after the excitement of the holidays, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money to stay entertained. Check out free events happening around campus, like movie nights, talks, or live performances.  In other words, fall in love with cheap thrills.

4. Avoid the Post-Holiday Shopping Trap

We get it, the post-holiday sales are tempting. Those discounts on everything from clothes to gadgets can make you feel like you're getting a steal. But here’s the thing: just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean you need it. If you’re truly looking to cut costs this month, avoid buying things just because they’re cheap. Make a list of what you need for the next few months, and stick to it. It’s about smart shopping, not impulse buys.

5. Make Some Extra Cash

If you’re looking to bring in a little more cash this month (without sacrificing your studies), try picking up a side gig or freelancing. From tutoring to writing, there are plenty of ways to make some extra cash without committing to a full-time job. You can also check out online platforms where you can earn by sharing your skills, like writing, editing, or graphic design. Every bit of extra income can help you get through the month with a bit more comfort.

6. Reevaluate Your Daily Habits

Small changes can add up in a big way. Evaluate your daily spending habits and see where you can make adjustments. Can you cut back on how often you order food? Maybe it’s time to use your legs a little bit more. Think about the little things you do every day that cost more than you realize, and see if you can make more affordable alternatives.

7. Keep Track of Your Spending

The key to surviving January on a student budget is keeping track of every little expense. You don’t have to go overboard with spreadsheets (unless you want to), but at least take a moment to log your daily spending so you can see where your money is going. There are plenty of apps out there that can help you keep track of your budget, or you can go old school with a notebook. The more you know about your spending habits, the better you can adjust to stay on track.

Yes, January might feel like a financial tightrope walk, but with a bit of planning and some small sacrifices, you can make it through the month without feeling broke or deprived. Stick to your budget, and embrace some creative cooking. Before you know it, you’ll be back on your feet and ready to take on the rest of the year, without breaking the bank.