Tips & Hacks for Student Living in London, UK

Here, we reveal how to make the most out of this city, from discounts and travel tips to quirky hangout spots.

22:38 25 November 2022

It’s no surprise that London is a renowned destination for international students. Its iconic buildings, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife attract many students. Here, we reveal how to make the most out of this city, from discounts and travel tips to quirky hangout spots.

Walk places, download Uber, or hop on the tube:Walking is free and it is a great exercise. This will help you to get your bearings in London. If you cannot walk for a long time, treat yourself to an Uber. As per the studies, Ubers are much cheaper than black cabs and they are safer as well. For long commutes, you can use the tube. It might seem overwhelming at the first but once you are used to the underground, life in London is much simple and fun. 

Take advantage of loyalty cards:To save money, loyalty cards and student offers are best. You should sign up for the student card from the National Union of Students that will provide you with access to a lot of discounts. With the loyalty card for the local supermarket, you can easily earn points each time you shop there and eventually get the money taken off from the weekly shop. Yes, these are helpful in saving more money. 

Even restaurants and coffee shops in London offer loyalty cards. The National Art Pass will give you free entry to the different museums, galleries, and historic houses. You can enjoy 50% off on the exhibitions too which loyalty cards. 

Look for a part-time job:You will learn about saving the money you already have, but one way to keep ticking yourself over is by getting a part-time job. Part-time jobs can be anything from bar work, barista, receptionist, etc. Ensure to head to job portals like Indeed or LinkedIn to find the latest job opportunities. For future job applications, these part-time jobs always play a great role. In this way, you can show the balance of uni and a part-time job. By earning money, you can lead a great life when in London, as it is a costly city. 

Make the most of lectures:You are moving to London for your studies and that’s why you need to make the most of your lectures. Check the emails before going to a lecture and ensure you have not missed any important information about the lecture ahead. Take a notepad and pen or a laptop to make notes. Though, you do not have to jot down everything. You can always refer back to the PowerPoint presentation that the lecturer went through. If you don’t understand any particular topic, then talk to your lecturer. You can get assistance with ease.

Always carry an umbrella:It’s no secret that UK weather is a little on the drizzly side. In the year 2020, it rained 170 days out of the year. That means you need to come prepared. You can always put a mini umbrella stashed in your bag, as it can be a lifesaver, especially from April to August. A waterproof coat is also a right way to go. But for the winter months, some sturdy shoes are also a great idea. 

Stick to free and cheap attractions:London is teeming with things to do for students, especially when it's Central London. There is a wide range of activities and hidden gems that are dotted on every corner. They are just waiting for you to explore them at your own pace. If this is your first time living in this city, or even visiting, then you are enjoying the culture and immersing yourself in the experience. You get to do university once in your life and you deserve to make the most out of it. So, do not stop exploring the city if you are on a low budget. The attractions which are mentioned below will help you look at the pointers. You will be shocked at just how many different things you can get involved with. Some of the free and cheap attractions in London for students include: 

• Natural History Museum
• British Museum
• Tate Modern
• Victoria and Albert
• Tower Bridge
• Big Ben
• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Hyde Park
• Richmond Park
• Camden Market
• Portobello Road Market
• God’s Own Junkyard 

 

Research your accommodation options properly:Student accommodation will be one of the first things that you think about when you move to London. Having a comfortable home away from home is important for a healthy mind and a positive experience. If you have already done your research, you are guaranteed to have worked out that London prices per week for university and the private accommodations are nearly double sometimes, when in actuality they offer the similar living spaces. The advice is that don’t go with the first accommodation you see. You need to research well to ensure you get the best student accommodation London. Keep a log of one your like in a spreadsheet for later use. What’s the location, is it cheap, or what’s the student vibe like? Is it close to transport so you can get to and from the university or does it have good facilities like a common room or laundry room? Also, ensure that the accommodation is next to a supermarket or a grocery store so that you never run out of your essentials. These were some common things to keep a check on but ask yourself your preference and find accommodation accordingly. 

Wrapping Up 

Moving to London to start your graduation is understandable as it’s a city that attracts like-minded, young individuals with a passion to finish university with the best degree possible. If you are still considering what university you will like to go to, here are a few facts about studying in London. This place attracts like-minded, young individuals with a passion to finish university with the best degree possible. If you are still confused, then don’t be as London is one of the best places to stay.