Voice of London

Student life can be expensive, adding Christmas onto this makes it even harder. As students, we’re all looking for different ways to scrimp and save, now more than ever, but without having to compromise on the festivities that come at this time of year. Here’s some way to have a budget friendly Christmas

1. Discount prices

Making the most of sites such as UNiDAYS and Student Beans can be great when buying presents.

They offer discounts in areas such as technology, fashion and lifestyle so there’s something for everyone.

You’re bound to get the best discounts on Black Friday which falls on the 27^th November this year.

Some sites (such as Gymshark and Topshop) allow student discounts on top of Black Friday discounted items allowing you to save that bit extra.

2. The homemade gift

It goes without saying that the personal touch can go a long way when it comes to gift giving.

The thought behind presents often means a lot more than how much it costs.

The list of homemade gifts is endless.

Why not try your hand at knitting, silk screen printing on cushions and other fabrics, or creating a photo album for a loved ones.

These ideas are guaranteed to rack up some brownie points. Click here for inspiration…

3. Bake your own

‘Why not, it’s Christmas’ is hands down the most common phrase used when it comes to food at this time of year.

It’s the one time of year when you can get away with eating just about anything and whenever you fancy.

Chocolate for breakfast? Do as you please. You can bake your own Christmas cake, Christmas cookies, or even create your own gingerbread house if you’re up for the challenge.

Websites such as Amazon have ‘build your own’ ginger bread house kits at very affordable prices.

4. Homemade decorations

Take and trip down memory lane and try your hand at making your own decorations like you used to in the last week of the school term before the Christmas holidays.

Beginner level: twig decorations

Intermediate level: origami shapes

Advanced level: Christmas wreath

5. One to try next year…

Buying little bits throughout the year can minimize the cost when it comes to December.

You won’t be panic-buying or struggling to make the money stretch. Plus, there are sales and discounts throughout different times of the year so you can buy presents whenever and store them until December 25th.

Another trick is to put money aside monthly which is dedicated to Christmas only.

It could be £10 one month or £50 the next, any amount helps when it comes to saving for what can be an expensive time of year.

However you decide to celebrate Christmas this year we’re wishing you a very merry Christmas!

Words by: Ella Webster | Subbing: Grace Staley