I came to Germany as a student and since I was from India, the currency exchange rate, for me, was devastatingly high. I came on a strict budget and I did not want to spend a single extra cent unwanted and unplanned. I realized pretty soon that in order for me to make sure that I stay on my budget, if not below it, I have to find of things I cannot splurge or spend money on. After spending a couple of weeks living in Germany and also talking to others from countries like India (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal etc.) I came up with a list of things I should avoid doing/spending money on. Here’s the list for you too.

Online Ordering of Food/Going to Restaurants: Food is really expensive in Germany. If you go to a restaurant or order food online, you will end up paying around 10-15€ for yourself. In the same budget you can add 15€ more and you will get a good amount of vegetarian options for an entire week. Things like tomatoes, potatoes, bread, milk, butter, eggs, cheese, fruits and even a drink or two can be easily bought in this budget. Avoid going to restaurants and try to cook daily for yourself.

Impulsive Buying of Clothes: I can completely understand, as a new student in a new place with a new apartment and new friends, we tend to go with more and more new things, especially clothes. Above that shops know that students are the weakest and easiest people to influence with their summer trends, winter fashion, spring style etc. Do not get into this trap. Use clothes you have and be happy. Always remember, you are not from your clothes, your clothes are from you.

Taking Vehicle (Car): Often when we have friends with cars or motorbikes we tend to go with them to university on sharing fuel basis. This sounds fun, and it is, indeed. There is no doubt in that. However, making this a habit can be really a bummer on the budget on a long run. Using public transport with free student ID is not only budget friendly, but also good for the Environment. 🙂

Getting Out of Budget: It is easier to make a budget, but difficult to follow and stick to it. I have, myself, been in situations where I simply ignored the budget and went out with friends more often than I should’ve, bought clothes and partied even when it could have been postponed to next month or ignored completely. I hated this each time next month started. It is not that sticking to a budget should kill all your fun and social life, but it should never be forgotten that the expenses of this month pile up or can create financial issues the next month. So making a flexible budget and sticking to it is the best thing to do.

No side job: Lastly, a side job is a must. Take it whenever you have an opportunity, but keeping in mind that it does not affect the main goal, which is studies. No job is bad or not worthy. Get yourself a side job to ensure you have enough – flexibility with your finances and you can enjoy your life.