Tips to save money as an international student in France

The question on everyone’s mind is how can you save money as an international student living and studying in France? We all know that living on your own while studying is not the easiest thing in the world… Between going out, public transport, shopping, managing a budget at such a young age is more complicated than you might think.

Compare prices

When we go shopping, we tend to grab the first thing we notice… Except, when you think about it, looking at prices can make you save more money than you think. “First-price” products are perceived to have a less good quality, but if you look closely the difference isn’t very big. Not the same brand, of course, but the item is still very similar to the higher-priced one. Another mini-tips in a tip, go and recuperate unsold food that hasn't expired thanks to Too Good to go! A simple way to save money and avoid food waste.

Make the most of your student status

As a student in France, you can benefit from many advantages. For example, when you eat out, remember to ask for the “student price”. If the restaurant you are in have it, it will be more profitable for you, otherwise go elsewhere, many restaurant offers those reductions, you'll always find one that suits you... It also helps you get reduced fares on public transport, museums, and even shows. This status doesn’t last forever, so make the most of it!

Plan your meals!

It goes without saying that eating at home is more cost-effective than eating out. Try simple recipes and make large quantities so that you have several meals already prepared for the week. Buy a reusable coffee mug, and you will save 3 euros every day (better than nothing, don’t you think?). The normal price of a meal in a restaurant can already be high, and if you add the cost of drinks and desserts on top (I can see you with your “fondant au chocolat”),

Second-hand shopping

If you want to furnish your flat or find some second-hand clothes, download the Vinted app, where you can sell old clothes, make a small fortune and then buy new ones, or even thrift shops (look on Google Maps, there should be some around). There are also a lot of occasional thrift shops events, such as "Vente au Kilo" in France. Basically, those events are organized by vintages clothes sellers or thrift shop managers. There, you can buy anything you want (every item is second handed) and you will pay depending on the weight of the clothes you purchase. Most of the time, 1 kilo costs between 15 and 20 euros. Adding to that, you’re doing something good for the environment. It’s possible to consume better and at a cheaper scale!

So are you convinced by these little techniques? There is still a long list, but we are taking things one step at a time here! Starting with these could help you save money as an international student and more importantly avoiding spending money you need on other things.