Written by Vijay (India), MSc Strategic Marketing
Living in London is like handing a toddler a credit card in a toy shop – thrilling but it can be easy to overspend. London can feel intimidating at first but it’s absolutely possible to live well and within budget here. Let’s dive in and explore how you can make the most of London without breaking the bank.
First impressions: overwhelm to opportunity
When you first arrive, London’s size, buzz and diversity can feel a little overwhelming. But give it two weeks and you’ll find yourself falling for the city’s charm. Its connectivity is exceptional: the Tube, buses and trains will take you across London and beyond, while the sheer variety of cultures, food and experiences means no matter where you’re from, London will have something to make you feel at home.
Accommodation: your biggest expense, handled smartly
Accommodation will likely be your largest monthly cost. Student accommodation which is convenient can be expensive and fill up fast, so booking early is the key to getting the best deal.
However, if you’re looking to save, consider private rentals. Platforms like SpareRoom, AmberStudent and University Living are popular choices. Team up with like-minded friends to rent a flat as it cuts costs and means you’ll have some company! Always prioritise three things: safety, comfort and easy access to public transport. Imperial also provide lots of resources and support for finding private accommodation, so I’d recommend checking these out and making use of them during your search.
If you prefer having your own space and fewer responsibilities, purpose-built student accommodation might be a better fit, but they can be a bit more expensive so make sure you adapt your budget accordingly!
Student discounts: your secret weapon
One of London’s best-kept secrets? Student discounts are everywhere. Almost every chain and even many local shops offer them. A great deal is Honest Burgers in South Kensington who give a generous 20% off to students, making it perfect for those campus lunch breaks.
Before you even board your flight, get on the train or hop in a car to London, make sure you download the student discount apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans. These platforms unlock discounts on everything from clothing, electronics and restaurants to subscriptions like Spotify and Amazon Prime. Also, always carry your student ID – you’ll be surprised how many savings opportunities pop up once you start asking!
How to get cheaper Tube fares with a railcard
As a student, you can grab a 16–25 Railcard for discounted national rail travel and a student Oyster card for commutes within the city. Then, ask staff at any Tube station to link your railcard to your Oyster card to knock 30% off your off-peak Tube fares! Personally, I save around £50 every month on travel with this little trick, and it’s a hack I wish I’d known about earlier.
Cycling is also becoming increasingly popular with many Imperial students opting to get second-hand bikes and using London’s expanding cycle lanes to save even more on their commutes.
Final thoughts: experiencing London on your terms
Living in London doesn’t mean you have to compromise your budget or experiences. Plan smart, use your discounts and stay connected with the student community and you’ll soon realise that London is one of the most rewarding places to live!
To find out more about my experiences, read my Imperial story.
