How to live student life in Sheffield on a student budget: FOMO edition

Navigating student life on a strict budget can be tough. You’ve got lectures, labs, all-nighters, and the constant battle with your bank balance. Being a student isn’t cheap: between rent, food and the occasional coffee, it all adds up much faster than we’d like.

But the worst enemy? FOMO—the fear of missing out! In a city like Sheffield, where the nightlife is vibrant, your flatmates are always doing something, and there’s always a new event popping up, FOMO can hit hard. The good news? Sheffield is full of affordable nights out, amazing nature and great student deals.

So, don’t let FOMO and finances keep you from enjoying uni life to the fullest. Here’s how to live your best student life without burning through your student loan.

Maximising student deals

First things first, if you haven’t already signed up to Unidays, get on it. Think of it as your golden ticket to discounts everywhere. Whether it’s 10 per cent off on ASOS, 50 per cent off at Domino’s, or cheeky discounts at your favourite food spots, Unidays is a student’s best friend. When it comes to going out, this little app can help cut your costs on clothes, food, and even tech.

Student Beans is another student saviour, offering tons of discounts for places such as Caffè Nero, All Bar One and KFC. And the best part is that they’re both free to download! Something we students love to hear.

Free money in your app store

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Calling all coffee lovers, what if I told you there was a way to get free hot drinks just by walking? Well, you are missing out if you don’t have Betterpoints downloaded. You might have seen it advertised on road signs coming into Sheffield. The genius app converts your journeys, whether by walking or public transport, into points that can be redeemed on so many free things! With 500 points you can secure a hot drink at any of the university cafes for free. And students living in Sheffield won’t have any trouble racking up the points with all these hills.

Nights out for less 

Sheffield has an awesome nightlife, but no need to splash out to have a great time. If you’re strategic, you can enjoy nights out without sacrificing next week’s meal budget and not feel that dreaded FOMO.

Every student and their mum have heard of the infamous “Leadmill Fridays”. This iconic venue offers clubgoers a regulars card for £5 that secures you cheap discounts on drinks every visit. It’s definitely a popular investment amongst students. 

image via @steelcitysnaps on Instagram

Didn’t manage to secure a club ticket? West Street is the place to be for a budget-friendly night out. West Street Live is the go-to bar for cheap thrills. £2.50 triples? Yes, please. 

Affordable eats

Sheffield has no shortage of cheap eats that fit a student budget. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something a bit different, the city’s student-friendly cafés, street food spots, and pubs have got you covered.

In the trendier pocket of Sheffield, the Peddler Night Market turns Kelham Island into a foody’s dream with culinary talent, craft beers and live music once a month. Student-friendly prices are guaranteed so grab a bite and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere without splurging.

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Nestled just off Division Street, you will find Steam Yard, best known for its coffee and delicious doughnuts. This place is a hotspot for students with its cosy atmosphere and is perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.

Activities on a budget

As much as clubbing and drinking are embedded in university culture, there are so many activities you can do solo or with your flatmates that don’t require much money.

 The Peak District is practically on our doorstep as residents of Sheffield. Hop on a bus for £2 with your friends, explore and don’t forget to Instagram the views. Pack a lunch and escape FOMO while breathing in that fresh countryside air. Your future self will thank you for the weekend memories that didn’t cost a fortune.

Uni of Sheffield students can enjoy the Students’ Union’s very own independent cinema, Film Unit. Run by volunteers, the group post their film screenings in advance on their Instagram and tickets are only £3. It’s brilliant for the whole flat and doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.