The right tools can take some of the hard work out of managing your money. Whether you're keeping track of your spending, finding discounts, planning your food shop or making the most of university resources, there are simple tools that can save you both time and money.

1. Apps that help you stay organised

Money management apps can help take some of the effort out of staying organised. They can help you see your spending clearly, spot patterns, and build better money habits without having to track everything manually.

Depending on the app you choose, you may be able to:

• Track your spending in one place
• Categorise your purchases automatically
• Monitor subscriptions and regular payments
• Set spending alerts and reminders
• Set savings goals or spending limits
• View multiple accounts together if you choose to connect them

Different apps offer different features, so it's worth exploring a few to find one that suits the way you like to manage your money. Some apps can connect to your bank account using Open Banking, while others let you record your spending manually. Before using any app, make sure you understand how it works and what information you'll be sharing.

Try this: Explore a money management app, or make use of the spending insights already available in your banking app.

2. Get more from your banking app

Modern banking apps come with tools designed to help you stay in control — but a lot of students don’t use them.

Look out for:

• Spending categories that show where your money goes
• Pots or spaces to separate rent, food, and spending money
• Round‑up savings, which put small amounts aside automatically
• Instant notifications so you always know your balance

These features can make budgeting feel much less complicated. By separating money for essentials and tracking spending as it happens, you're less likely to be caught off guard later in the month.

Try this: Create one pot or savings space for rent or essentials and move the money across as soon as it comes in.

3. Discount platforms that save you money

Student discounts can make a noticeable difference over the course of a term, especially when used on the things you buy regularly.

Useful options include:

• UNiDAYS – discounts on fashion, tech, food, and more
• Student Beans – similar range with exclusive offers
• TOTUM – paid membership offering additional discounts
• Railcards – 16–25 or 26–30 Railcard for cheaper train travel
• Too Good to Go – discounted food from local cafés and supermarkets

Many students think about discounts when buying clothes or technology, but some of the biggest savings can come from everyday spending on food, travel, and household essentials.

Try this: Download one discount app and use it for your next food or travel purchase.

4. Tools that help you shop smarter

Grocery shopping is one of the biggest regular expenses for students, but a little planning can make a significant difference to your budget.

Helpful tools include:

• Supermarket loyalty apps – check offers, collect points, and make the most of discounts on things you already buy
• Price comparison tools – compare prices and find where everyday items are cheapest
• Recipe and meal planning tools – find affordable meals and plan your shopping list before you go
• Cost-sharing tools – make it easier to split shared food or household costs with flatmates

The right tools can help you avoid impulse purchases, make the most of supermarket offers, and reduce the number of expensive top-up shops during the week.

Try this: Check your supermarket's loyalty app before your next shop and build your meal plan around any offers available.

5. University tools you might not know about

As a University of Chester student, you will already have access to a range of free tools and services that could save you money.

You may already have access to:

• Microsoft 365
• Adobe Creative Cloud or other specialist software
• Free printing allowances or discounted printing services
• Study spaces and laptop loans
• Careers platforms that advertise part-time jobs and paid opportunities

Making use of these resources can reduce costs and help you avoid paying for services you already have access to.

Try this: Check Portal or speak with a member of staff in the library to find out what might be available.

You don't need to use every tool on this list to make a difference. Finding one or two that fit into your routine can help you stay organised, avoid unnecessary spending and feel more in control of your money throughout the year.

Next step: Choose one new tool to try this week and see if it makes managing your money easier.