Budget friendly meal planning: eating well on a student budget

• Author: Serena Ajiginni

Hello everyone! My name is Serena, and I am here to share with you my tried and tested advice for eating good food on a student budget. 

Shopping – budget supermarkets are your bestie 

Eating well on a student budget can be challenging, but with a bit of planning and smart shopping, it becomes much more manageable. 

I swear by budget supermarkets, and my personal favourite is ALDI. The prices are unbeatable, and in my opinion, the quality is just as good as pricier options. Give it a shot if you haven’t already, you can create some really lovely meals with just £5.  

Embrace the weekly shop 

To keep things organised and waste-free, I opt for weekly shopping. It’s a game-changer in tracking expenses and minimising food waste. Knowing exactly what I need helps me stick to my budget and ensures I only buy what I’ll use. 

Create a list of meals  

Having a meal list for breakfast, lunch, and dinner is my secret weapon. From chicken oily pasta to classic spaghetti bolognese, I jot down my favourite meals and refer to this list before every shopping trip. Planning ahead not only prevents overspending but also stops me wandering aimlessly through supermarket aisles. 

I take it a step further by pre-planning my weekly meals and listing the needed ingredients. Checking my kitchen beforehand helps me avoid any unnecessary purchases and keeps me on track with my budget. 

Don’t forget the snacks and deserts  

Do not and I repeat do not forget to add snacks and deserts! We deserve it! It is also a really good way to avoid spontaneous trips to the shop for snacks, paying more than you would at the supermarket. So spending a little more by adding treats to your main shop, is a good way to save money in the long run. 

Buy in bulk and forget the brands 

Consider buying non-perishable items in bulk to save on costs, this is a good way to save money in the long run. Generic brands are often just as good as the pricey ones, so give them a try. They can make a significant difference in your overall expenses, and shops like Aldi are great for own brands. 

We’ve got this! Eating well on a budget is all about smart choices and a positive mindset. I hope these tips make your food journey a little easier. Stay healthy and enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly meals!