How to Stick to an Entertainment Budget at University

One of the most difficult things about being a student is the dilemma of having little spending money but a huge number of options for entertainment — and you want to take advantage of them all! To avoid running out of money before the end of the month, you need to take steps to control your spending. The best way to do this is to create a budget for entertainment (and then make sure you stick to it).

1. Track Your Spending with a Budgeting App

It’s impossible to ensure you stick to a budget unless you monitor your finances. A budgeting app makes it easy to enter every expense to see where your money is going. You can then check that you’re within your budget and make decisions about where to cut costs, if necessary.

2. Head to Free Activities on Campus and in Your Area

Clubs and organizations on campus are always putting on free events to help students have fun and socialize without breaking the bank. Many of these events even come with free food, which will help you stick to your food budget for the month as well.

However, you shouldn’t just look on campus when you’re searching for free events — there are likely activities taking place in your wider community, too. Search for promotions for students as well as activities that are free or discounted for everyone. For instance, walking tours tend to operate on a tip basis and are ideal for when a friend from out of town comes to visit. You may also find discounts for restaurants at certain times, such as early-bird specials and two-for-one offers. Finally, you should find out if museums and art galleries are free on a particular day of the week.

3. Spend More Time in Your Student Apartment

There’s no need to go out to have a great time with friends. Instead of going to a restaurant, you could host a potluck dinner. Rather than heading to the movies, watch something on a streaming service. Other options include playing board games or just chatting.

4. Find Free Games to Play

If your friends are gamers, another option for a night in is to search for free games to play. Check the app store for your console or device on a regular basis to look for new releases and trending games in the free categories. This is also a great option if you’re looking for entertainment just for yourself whenever you’d rather not go out.

To have more nights in with friends, you need to be living in a great apartment. Hanging out in a dorm room is uncomfortable; plus, you need to share the space with your roommate. What you need is off-campus housing — Ottawa students can move into 1Eleven. You’ll receive a spacious apartment that’s ideal for entertaining as well as access to common areas like the games room, where you can meet new people. Contact us now to secure a spot while there are still a few rooms left.