Wherever possible buy second hand. Use charity shops, car boot or jumble sales. Course books are often available second hand but you will need to be careful when buying DVDs and CDs or electrical goods as it is often difficult to assess the quality or safety of these items.
If you can't buy course books second hand don't forget to use the library. Don't be tempted to buy every book on your course booklist - ask other students or your tutors which books they found most useful. You could always ask for the more expensive items to be bought for you as a Christmas or birthday present.
Share the costs of food with friends. Alternatively, for food or household items, buy bulk or check out supermarket own brands which usually cost less overall. Make your own sandwiches for lunch - you'll be surprised at how much you save!
Cut your travel costs to a minimum. Many students feel they need to run a car but this is often a big drain on their limited resources and not always as essential as might be believed. Consider whether you really need a car - is the cost really worth the additional convenience? Walk or use a bike if possible - Aberystwyth is very compact so you don't have to travel far to get to lectures etc. and the exercise will also be good for you and will be environmentally friendly!
If you use public transport buy a student rail or bus card. Buy an AHA card for bus travel to and from University and the local area. Further details are available from the Students' Union.
Take advantage of student discount offers. Many shops offer discounts on production of an NUS card.
Don't exceed your overdraft without prior agreement and steer clear of store cards as the interest rates are often high. Limit credit card use. Shop around for the best student bank account for your needs (see our top tips guide to choosing a bank).
Save on insurance costs by checking whether your possessions will be covered by your parents home contents insurance or by insurance cover provided as part of your University accommodation. Make sure you have sufficient cover for larger, more expensive items such as laptops.