Amid the ever-increasing cost of domestic bills, grocery expenses, and toppings for pints at the local pub, one could argue that budgeting has become increasingly sophisticated in the UK—and for good measure.
While British citizens certainly have their fair share of ridiculing the economic crisis gripping the country, they’re also attempting to find solutions. From cashback strategies to money saving tricks, check out the ways people across Britain are conserving without sacrificing on the finer things in life.
🛒 1. The Supermarket Shuffle: Loyalty Cards Return
As the economy worsens while citizens are given little reasoning to retain faith in the system, Tesco Clubcard, Nectar, and myWaitrose have shifted from being lowly praised loyalty cards to bank savers.
Top Tip: Always scan. Clubcard prices can reduce items by 20–50%. If you’re into online shopping, make sure to link your accounts to GreenJinn or Shopmium for extra discounts and cashback.
🍻 2. Engaging in Fun While Sticking to a Budget: ‘Wants’ Can Now be Recategorized to ‘Bits That Keep You Sane’
If you’re into self-sabotage that involves step-based budgeting systems resembling filing taxes, we have just the thing for you.
Rent, bills, food: 50%
Netflix, takeaways, visits to local pubs: 30%
Savings and debt repayment: 20%
In the UK, change wants to bits that keep you sane, which are undoubtedly Greggs and your Spotify subscription.
📱 3. There’s An App For Everything (Most of Them Are Free)
Best Money-Saving Apps in the UK:
Plum: Saves money based on their personalized spending habits.
Emma: Monitors subscriptions you forgot to cancel (you know who you are… gym member).
Monzo/Starling: Receives timely notifications, saving pots, and monthly summaries that are coherent.
Money Mindset: Watching your bank account get charged at every purchase is your reminder to rethink finances after every purchase.
🏠 4. Bills, Brrr.. And Boiler Tricks
Not only do Brits have to battle through the cold winter months, but they are also shelling out quite a bit of money. Smart sovers are becoming self-taught home-efficiency specialists.
By dropping the thermostat by just 1°C, you could save £100+.
Bleed your radiators. (Look it up. Youtube it. You will want to feel like a sell it yourself diety.)
Use Martin Lewis’s tools to switch providers. His tools also allow you to compare energy rates or find out if you can get a smart meter for free.
Cozy Tip: Thick curtains, draught excluders, and putting on layers like you’re in a BBC period drama will help more than you think.
🎟️ 5. Free Fun is the New Night Out
Fun no longer has to be expensive! We now have access to:
- Free days at most UK museums.
- Local events on Facebook or Eventbrite.
- National Trust or English Heritage memberships—great for wandering enthusiasts.
Drinking alternative: Game night with friends—bring your own drinks. Half the price with the same laughs.
🧾 Final Thoughts
In 2025 saving money in the UK isn’t about completely cutting everything. You don’t have to work harder; just spend smarter. A couple strategic changes here and there along with a few freebies and there’s room in the budget for luxuries (or at least a chippy tea).
Always remember: saving a pound earns you that much closer to getting a pint. 💸🍻