Starting university is exciting, but let’s be honest – it can also get pretty expensive. Between accommodation, textbooks, and kitting out your new place, costs can pile up fast. For many students, this is the first time living independently and managing a budget, which can be overwhelming. Luckily, there are smart ways to cut down on spending – without sacrificing what you need. Here’s how to find the best Uni deals.
1. Tap Into Student Discount Platforms
First things first – make the most of your student status. Sites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans offer discounts on everything from tech and clothes to food and fitness. Many retailers also offer their own student deals, so always ask at checkout or check online before you buy.
💡 Tip: Websites like Money Saving Expert are great places to keep up with the latest discounts and student freebies.
2. Earn While You Spend with Cashback
Cashback websites let you earn a small percentage of your spend back every time you shop online. It might only be pennies at first, but over the course of a term, it can really add up.
🛍️ Use sites like TopCashback or Quidco to find cashback offers before making your next online purchase.
3. Shop Second-Hand and Save Big
When money’s tight, second-hand shopping is a student’s best friend. Gumtree offers thousands of pre-loved items for a fraction of the original price – and many of them are right in your local area. Some of the most popular searches on Gumtree? You guessed it: “free” and “freebies.” That’s because so many students and locals are giving away great stuff they no longer need. “Second-hand doesn’t mean second-best,” says Kim Faura, Consumer Expert at Gumtree. “Whether it’s furniture, textbooks, or electronics, these items still have a lot of life left in them – and they help your budget go further.”
4. Affordable Tech for Less
A laptop is essential for most Uni courses – but they don’t come cheap. A brand-new model can easily cost between £500–£1,000. But on Gumtree, you can find second-hand laptops for around £160–£300, often with barely any wear. With the UK sitting on an estimated 30 unused tech items per household, it’s worth checking Gumtree before you buy new.
5. Cut the Cost of Course Textbooks
Textbooks can be expensive – and library copies disappear fast. Gumtree is a goldmine for second-hand course books, many in great condition and at a fraction of retail price. Once you’re done with the book or module? Sell it on Gumtree and recoup your costs. It’s a win-win.
6. Deck Out Your Uni Flat for Less
Furnishing a student flat doesn’t need to drain your loan. On Gumtree, you can pick up:
Not only are these often far cheaper than buying new, but buying locally can save on delivery costs too.
Stay Smart: Tips for Safe Second-Hand Shopping
If you’re new to second-hand marketplaces, keep these simple safety tips in mind:
🔎 Do your research
Check the retail price of an item so you know what a good deal looks like.
⚠️ Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true
If something feels off, trust your gut.
📦 Ask about the condition
Especially for tech or appliances—ask about any wear, missing parts or faults.
🔐 Protect your info
Keep conversations on the Gumtree platform to avoid scams and stay protected.
🤝 Meet in person if possible
Seeing the item for yourself ensures it matches the listing.
💳 Use secure payment methods
Cash is king, but if not, use trusted platforms like PayPal. Be cautious of sellers pushing for online-only payment links or deposits.
Ready to Save?
Whether you’re moving into halls, getting set up in a shared flat, or just starting to gather your Uni must-haves, Gumtree has your back. With a little know-how, you can score incredible deals on the essentials – and maybe even a few extras – without blowing your budget.
👉 Start browsing student deals on Gumtree → here
