Socialising on a budget: A blog by Charlotte, Student Money Assistant

It is no secret that socialising is key to a fulfilling university experience, but balancing a vibrant social life with a student budget can be challenging—but it doesn’t have to be. This article is going to outline some creative ways you can maintain your social life without breaking the bank.

The university offers events for students at little to no cost, and this is a great way to have fun on a budget. Keep an eye on the Student Union’s event calendarto find affordable activities and keep up to date with what is taking place on campus.

Another way to stretch your budget and socialise is student discounts! These are frequently available from nearby cafes, cinemas, and retail stores. Keep your student ID with you at all times as it may come in handy for potential social opportunities.

For a creative and low-cost way to socialise, consider organising DIY projects or hobby-based gatherings. You could host craft nights where everyone brings their own materials or encourage skill swaps where friends share hobbies such as painting, knitting, or playing instruments. Hosting gatherings centred around these skills can be a fun and inexpensive way to spend time with others. An added tip is to keep an eye on the Art Society webpage as they often host their own events that are inexpensive to attend with materials provided!

Consider giving back to the community and making new friends in your spare time by volunteering, and you can find more details on voluntary roles on the volunteering opportunities page on the Warwick Website. Another productive option is forming study groups, which can combine socialising with learning and help you stay motivated.

Don't forget to embrace the outdoors—activities like going on walks, outings, or bike rides are free and offer a great way to socialise while enjoying nature. Public parks are also perfect for casual gatherings or picnics with friends, and there are parks in Leamington that are a quick bus ride away from campus! Another fun and affordable way to connect with others is by hosting cooking parties. Have everyone bring one ingredient and prepare a meal together. You can also swap recipes with friends to keep your meals exciting and budget-friendly.

By incorporating these ideas into your routine, you’ll find that saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing your social life—there are plenty of ways to have fun on a budget!

For further money-related support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window), phone (024 7615 0096), or come to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).