One small step closer to being able to afford to turn on the heating.
Budgeting as a student is already humbling enough as it is, never mind the cost of living crisis. With some of these tips and tricks, you can hopefully save yourself some extra money, even though you’ll probably end up spending it on a meal deal anyway.
- Entry fees
The sly stealer of your precious money. In my opinion, the simplest thing you can do is buy your club entry tickets in advance. The average ticket costs around £6 for an average night out in Newcastle. This cost can easily be halved if you keep an eye on ticket releases and get in there early. Many popular clubs in the Toon tend to promote their biggest nights on Instagram, usually by linking discounted tickets to their stories, so this is something to keep an eye out for.
On the other hand, if you’re more prone to a spontaneous night out, then this one might not quite apply to you. However, it’s worth considering, and I have definitely noticed a benefit in my bank account since being more aware of ticket sale days.
2. Join a society
Not only are they a great way to socialise, but you can reap many other benefits from joining a society when it comes to partying too. The most anticipated night out of the week is Wednesday Sports Night anyway, so why not just join in?
Cheaper tickets and cheaper drinks, you would be silly to (sometimes free) tickets. You can even get yourself a discount card, especially useful if you’re in your second or third year, for Spy in Jesmond. It will save you up to 40% off all day on Wednesdays!
3. Squadka
Affordable and tasty – what more could you ask for? Squadka, aka Vodka mixed with squash, is personally one of the most popular and effective penny-saving tips that I’ve come across whilst enduring my second year of university. Particularly favourable amongst the freshers, this concoction will rescue you from uncontrollably tapping your Apple Pay at the bar. Are you more of a blackcurrant or orange squash person?
4. Take advantage of the Metro
I mean, it exists for a reason. Fortunately, the last Metro runs until around 11:30pm, which is perfect timing if you’re starting your night off at Big Market (the best way to do it). It’s a much quicker and more inexpensive alternative for travelling through the city, rather than sobering up while you wait for an overpriced XL uber, and you will most likely find yourself joining in with some form of drunken acapella.
5. Socialise with local reps
Don’t be scared; they won’t bite. With the vibrant nightlife of Newcastle being a huge reason for people deciding to study here, many people often choose to rep for club events in order to earn some extra cash. TupTup, Greys, and The Social Club are typically student favourites in 2023, just to name a few. Since Newcastle isn’t such a big city, you’re probably already friends with promoters and haven’t even realised it, so utilise the connections you likely already have and save some pennies!
If you feel as though you need support or guidance through the cost of living crisis the Student Union are offering information here.
Even though nightlife is stereotypically central to the experience of most university students, inflation is demonstrating a significant impact on all aspects of student life so far in 2023. A student, aged 19 years, at Newcastle University stated, “It’s impacting me both mentally and physically. Instead of making the most of my time at university, I’m stressed about having to choose between fun social activities and affording heating for that week.”
A survey by Save the Student highlighted that the cost of living for students has surged by 17% since 2022. Although maintenance loans have increased for this academic year, as a result of the ongoing cost of living crisis, students are still finding themselves in unfair financial positions.
How does Emily Coggins advise students on stretching their budget for nightlife in Newcastle?
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