Girl Math for Students: Small Wins, Big Savings

Student life is a balancing act of studying, social life, excitement, opportunity and – let’s be honest – expenses. Between textbooks, coffee runs, nights out and the occasional takeaway, it’s easy for your budget to disappear without a trace.

And that’s where a little creativity, and some clever saving hacks, come in.

At Comhar Linn INTO Credit Union, we know that students are experts at stretching every euro. Some of the smartest strategies come from thinking a little differently about money, what some call a touch of “girl math.” It’s not about complicated formulas; it’s about turning small decisions into big wins. Whether it’s scoring a bargain meal, finding a designer outfit for a fraction of the price, or making sure every euro in your wallet works a little harder, students have mastered the art of clever money moves.

Budgeting as a student isn’t just about restrictions; it’s about smart choices that let you enjoy life without guilt. From sharing subscriptions with friends to hunting for discounts online, there are countless ways to make your money go further while still living your best student life. Creativity, resourcefulness, and a bit of planning can turn everyday spending into a series of wins that add up over time.

So, we reached out to our student members to find out how they stretch their euros, and their tips are as clever as they are practical.

Here are some of their favourite strategies.

1. Too Good To Go

One student shared: "There are plenty of great restaurants and shops around Limerick that use this. Great way to get food that is still good, but just left over at the end of the day!"

Too Good To Go connects you with leftover meals at a fraction of the usual price in most Irish towns and cities. It’s win win, because you save money, reduce food waste and can enjoy a delicious meal without stretching your budget.

2. Vinted: Stylish second-hand finds

Love shopping but can’t justify regular spends? Try Vinted. One student said: "Vinted is a great resource for cheap but high-quality second-hand outfits. I paid €5 for a designer dress to wear as a wedding guest, a great deal for something I’ll probably only wear once."

Shopping second-hand allows you to find high-quality clothing for less, especially for occasions where you might only wear an item once. It’s a smart way to stay stylish without overspending.

3. Always ask for student discounts

Never underestimate the power of a student ID. Cafes, cinemas and shops often offer discounts for students. One member shared that simply asking for a discount saved them more than they expected. Small savings like this add up quickly over time.

4. Plan your meals

Meal planning can make a huge difference for your budget. One savvy student shared: "Plan your meals every week as this avoids overspending on food and also limits the amount of takeaways you get each week."

By mapping out weekly meals, you control spending, reduce waste and make weeknight dinners easier to manage – all while keeping your wallet happy.

5. Use a dedicated student account

Creating a dedicated student account with Comhar Linn INTO Credit Union can help you manage your weekly budget: One student advised: "Set aside a separate spending account so you only have a certain amount you can spend per week.”

With a student account, you can easily allocate money for everyday spending, track your balance and avoid overspending. It’s a simple, secure way to stay on top of your finances while enjoying social outings and treats.

It’s girl math in action.