Blog: How to have a student-friendly Christmas
Hey! I’m Aliyah, a Student Content Shaper and a first-year medical student. Christmas is such an exciting time but sometimes, it can be hard to celebrate when you have upcoming exams, tight schedules and even tighter wallets. But don’t worry- this blog will be your guide to an affordable and memorable Christmas!
Make a Christmas budget early
As students, we have a unique advantage when it comes to budgeting. From student deals to discounted travel, there’s lots of ways to stretch our money this Christmas.
There are several apps, such as StudentBeans, UNiDAYS, and a tastecard from Natwest's student account to help with money management and saving more for gifts.
Secret Santa
Also, instead of buying gifts for all your friends, try doing Secret Santa. Not only does it help save time and money, but it adds excitement and mystery to the holiday season! Everyone can come to an agreement about the budget so that all the gifts are of similar value. Simply write everyone’s name down a piece of paper and each person draws a random name out of a hat. The name you pull out will be the person you’re buying a gift for. But what do you actually get them that’s thoughtful and affordable?
Budget-friendly gift ideas
There’s no need to feel pressured to spend upwards of £100 on a gift. If you can, then by all means! But for those who can’t, here’s a few ideas of gifts on a stricter student budget.
- Experience gifts: these can be something simple such as a Christmas movie night or a Christmas themed sip ‘n’ paint. Rather than spending tons of money on something that may get left aside, experience gifts like these focus on creating new shared memories that last and spending quality time with friends. They’re also more thoughtful and personal as it shows the intention and care put into planning the experience. In a time where we are pressured to buy the latest trending items, an experience gift reminds people of the reason for the season - quality time with your closest friends and family is the most rewarding present of all. There’s also lots of Christmas experiences in Birmingham such as the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market or Ice Skate Birmingham which have a wholesome festive atmosphere!
- Second-hand gifts: there are countless places both online and around Birmingham to get meaningful presents that don’t break the bank. You can go to charity shops like the Birmingham Hospice Shop, which is located in Selly Oak, or the British Heart Foundation for pre-loved books, vintage clothes, and room decor.
- Handmade gifts: if you have a bit more time on your hands, you can make handmade gifts, such as hand-knitted clothing/accessories. As a crocheter, I usually make things ranging from scarves and headphone warmers to crochet flowers for my friends which have been said to be both a practical and thoughtful present! These gifts aren’t just affordable, they’re also sustainable- and nothing beats the feeling of receiving a handmade gift crafted with care or a rare, thrifted find.
At the end of the day, Christmas is not all about how much you spend on particular gifts. It’s possible to have a joyful holiday season as a student without the fear of overspending, or having to limit your weekly food shop to only 6 eggs instead of the usual 12! So, whether it’s handmade gifts, unique second-hand treasures or experience gifts, the thought and intention behind your gift means a whole lot more than the price. Christmas is a time to reflect on love and joy and enjoy it by spending in the presence of the people you love most. Merry Christmas to you all!
For more tips and advice on how to save money this Christmas, check out our 'Budget-friendly Christmas' intranet page.