Being a university student comes with a whole host of new responsibilities you might not be used to – including doing your own food shopping and preparing your own meals. The average student grocery cost per month is £144, which is the second biggest expenditure after rent, according to the Save the Student Survey 2025.
We’ve put together a guide to food shopping as a student, with some top tips on how to food shop for one person.
1. Meal Plan
By planning your meals, you can buy only what you actually need, ensuring you don’t waste money on food that will end up in the bin or left uneaten.
Meal planning helps you stick to a specific shopping list, so you can focus on the essentials rather than aimlessly browsing the aisles and picking up unnecessary items. This way, you're less likely to make impulse buys, which can quickly add up and drive up the cost of your shop. Plus, you’ll reduce food waste, save time, and feel more in control of your grocery budget.
2. Opt for Non-branded
Most supermarkets now offer their own brand or cheaper versions of essential items like tinned tomatoes, beans, rice, and pasta. While it can be tempting to reach for well-known brands like Kellogg’s, Nutella, or Tropicana, you’ll often find that the non-brand alternatives are just as good. For example, a 1kg pack of Tesco own-brand macaroni costs just 95p, while a pack of Barilla can cost around £1.50 for a smaller size. Opting for the store brand can help you save money while still getting the same quantity and quality.
Treat yourself now and then but buying all-brand everything can really add up in the long run!
Tesco Pasta
3. Consider Batch Cooking
As a busy student, there will inevitably be days when you just don’t feel like cooking—whether it's due to a workload, exam season or simply being too tired. This is where batch cooking becomes a lifesaver.
By preparing meals in larger portions and freezing them, you save time on busy days, reduce food waste, and always have a homemade meal ready to go, so you’re not tempted to splurge on expensive takeaways or unhealthy convenience foods. Dishes like pasta bakes, curries, stews, and soups are perfect for batch cooking, as they store well and often taste even better after a day or two.
Simply cook in bulk, divide the meals into individual portions, and freeze them for later use. Then, when you're in a rush or just too exhausted to cook, all you need to do is reheat one of your pre-made meals, and you've got a satisfying, homemade dish in minutes. It’s an efficient and budget-friendly way to ensure you’re always eating well, even when life gets hectic.
4. Take Advantage of Loyalty Schemes
Most supermarkets offer loyalty cards that provide discounts and special offers, which can help you save money on groceries over time. The Tesco Clubcard is a perfect example, it lets you earn points on your purchases which can be redeemed for vouchers to use on future shopping trips, or even for discounts on selected brands. Similarly, the Sainsbury’s Nectar Card lets you collect points that can be converted into rewards or discounts, helping you reduce your grocery costs. Some local chains, such as SuperValu and Lidl, also have their own loyalty schemes or offer special promotions, so it's worth checking out what each store offers.
In addition, student discount apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans occasionally feature grocery discounts or partner with stores to provide extra savings. It’s always a good idea to check these apps before heading to the store, as you could access exclusive deals for students that help you save even more on your grocery bill.
5. Save Money with Seasonal Produce
A great way to save money while grocery shopping is by focusing on buying seasonal produce. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are usually more affordable and fresher than those out of season. Not only does this help you stay within your budget, but it also gives you the opportunity to enjoy a variety of flavourful, nutrient-rich foods. So, check what's in season and plan your meals around those items to get the best value for your money.
fruit and veg
By using these tips, you can save money on groceries without sacrificing quality. Smart shopping goes a long way in keeping your budget in check while enjoying tasty, nutritious meals.