During the festive season, one event catches the eye of smart shoppers and money-conscious students: Black Friday. London, known for its lively vibe, eagerly embraces this retail event. For students, it's not just about deals; it's about making every pound count. Remember to set a budget and be mindful of your finances - determine how much you can comfortably spend without denting your wallet. As a student, prioritising essentials like tech gadgets, textbooks, and clothing might top your list. Research in advance to uncover which stores or online platforms offer the best bargains for your needs.
How to budget amidst the excitement
While the allure of discounts can be overwhelming, it's vital to stick to your budget. Consider using apps or budgeting tools that can help track your expenses and ensure you're staying within limits. We recommend ‘Emma’, an app that analyses your savings and current accounts as well as credit cards and categorises your spending so you can easily see where your money is going each month. It lists your subscriptions, allowing you to see if there are things you are paying for and not using, and any bank fees you have been charged. Remember, Black Friday is just the beginning of the holiday shopping season, so managing your funds wisely now can save you from post-shopping regret later.
Beyond Material Purchases
Black Friday isn't solely about material possessions. Many experiences and services also offer enticing discounts. From discounted gym memberships to meal deals at restaurants, exploring these offers can add value to your student life without straining your finances. It is a great time to book a west-end show, with many companies offering cheap tickets. Similarly, British Airways always has great Black Friday deals, especially for travelling around Europe.
Black Friday at KCLSU
From the 24th of November to the 27th of November, KCLSU’s The Union Shop will be offering numerous discounts as well as additional marked-down items available online.
Here’s a glimpse of the exclusive offers to look out for:
- T-shirt: £12
- Hoodie: £26
- Sweatshirt: £22
- Tote: £5
- Hoodie Multi-pack Bundle Deal: £48
- Hoodie and Sweatshirt Bundle Deal: £44
- Hoodie, Sweatshirt and T-shirt Bundle Deal: £54
- Hoodies, Sweatshirt, T-shirt, and Tote Bundle Deal: £58
Implementing strategic planning and budgeting lays the groundwork for a financially stable and fulfilling holiday season ahead. This is a friendly reminder to secure essential items but also maintain a balanced budget, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the festive period.