Here’s exactly how KCL students are making the most of uni while commuting

As someone who commutes to London for university, it can often be a pretty difficult experience. The multiple, long train journeys and early wake-up times make for very exhausting days. Sometimes it’s hard to actually feel involved in student life when you don’t live in accommodation.

So, The King’s Tab took to Instagram to ask our followers what tips they had for commuters. Whether you’re a fresher, or in your final year, their advice shows that commuting doesn’t have to mean missing out.

Use your commute time to your advantage

Your commute can become an asset rather than a setback. Many students use the time to catch up on missed work. It is comforting to know you’ll have guaranteed time in the morning to finish off what you missed the night before (assuming the train wifi is working that day). Using your commute wisely means you can save your evenings for friends and fun.

Some students suggested setting aside the commute time to wind down, with one person saying they “love commuting as it gives me the time to do whatever I want without feeling guilty”. Read for leisure, listen to music, or watch a film/tv show to relax after a long day.

Being prepared is a must

Trains delays and cancellations are incredibly frustrating, but are, unfortunately, part of the experience. Make sure to check before you travel, and be aware of any upcoming maintenance that could affect your travel plans. Apps like Trainline provide updates on any delays or cancellations on national rail trains.

Most Read

I went on a night out with Bonnie Blue – it was uncomfortable and she’s dead behind the eyes

This 19-year-old is going to be the next Bonnie Blue, and she’s already planning extreme stunts

Lily Phillips shares utterly disgusting ‘before and after’ video and now I’m traumatised

Plus, the TFL app has saved me many times from delayed or suspended tube services (and all those times when your usual line is busier than normal). Having alternate routes where possible is also a good idea. A “commuter kit” with snacks, water, a charger, and headphones makes long days easier and cheaper.

Sadly, there’s not a lot you can do if your train gets cancelled while you’re on it because it’s driven through a tree (which definitely did not happen to me last year). It is all part of the fun I guess.

Save money on your travels

A 16-25 railcard is a godsend if you’re constantly paying for train tickets, as you can get 1/3 off the cost. A one year railcard is £35, or a three year railcard is £80. However, if you open up a Santander student current account, you can get a free rail card valid for four years.

If you’re not needed in early, try to get to university a little later in the day, as off-peak and super off-peak travel is much cheaper. Seasonal tickets are useful as well, depending on how often you travel into London.

If you have to go in early a lot, a monthly travel pass can be a cheaper alternative to buying daily tickets. Buying tickets on the day of travel also helps you to avoid booking fees.

An 18+ student Oyster card allows you to save 30 per cent on travelcards. And, if you link your Oyster to your railcard, you can save 1/3 on pay as you go off-peak travel for the tube, London Overground, Elizabeth line and most National Rail services in London.

One student suggested that, where possible, you should try spending the money you save on treating yourself, getting lunches and doing cute activities.

Don’t avoid socials and societies

One of the biggest worries for commuting students is missing out on the social side of university. While you may not be able to stay out late all the time, you can still build a great social life on campus. So, join in in societies and events, even if you can’t stay for the whole time. Not all social events at uni go on into the depths of the night.

As well as societies, talk to people on your course. It’s basically impossible to avoid group projects at uni, so these are the perfect opportunity to try chatting to someone new.

Because you won’t always be around campus, it helps to be proactive. Suggest grabbing a coffee between lectures, or set up a study date in the library. It doesn’t have to be party all the time. Small, regular catchups add up and make friendships stronger, even if you’re not living in halls.

Explore London

One of the biggest advantages of commuting is access to both London’s opportunities and the comfort of home. Take advantage of the city! Use gaps in your day to venture out, especially at christmas.

It also helps to find a campus base. Pick somewhere like a library spot, coffee shop, or study space where you feel comfortable and can recharge between classes. I’ve spent a lot of time in Maughan and often survive purely off Tesco meal deals and Greggs. Think of London as your extended campus.