What students spend their money on vs what their parents think they spend their money on

Whether you study at home, interstate or overseas, there is probably a parent worrying about you and your spending habits. Here are some things you’re both on the same page about - however, you’re probably going to prioritise some things more than others!

1. Alcohol - Fair enough, I mean, you’re probably lapping up that uni life and partying with your new pals, why wouldn’t you be spending money on alcohol? Particularly in Australia, alcohol is a large aspect of student culture. There are loads of parties and events that are basically taking place JUST to have a drink with mates. It’s important to consider one thing if this is what you’re spending your money on - don’t waste your hard earned coin on expensive alcohol. Cask wine exists, and so does cheap spirits. Mix that up with your favourite juice and you’ve made yourself a cocktail that won’t cost $18 a pop.
   

2. Food - You’re probably spending A LOT of money on food. Especially if you are partaking in the whole drinking experience. Hangovers are HARD, especially if you want to save money. That's why cheeky ubereats and deliveroo always go down a treat - tasty food that you didn’t have to prepare (but paid $20 more for because you couldn’t crawl out of bed to pick it up from the shop.

3. Rent - It’s expensive to live in Australia, that’s for sure. Your family is probably right in saying that all of your money goes towards your rent, but honestly, you would spend more on alcohol and food in a week than you would on rent!

4. Activities - Depending on where you are in Australia and what you’re interested in, activities can vary dramatically in price. It’s pretty cheap to explore australia whether that be doing tours, pub crawls or even road trips. However, when you start going to do jetski tours, snorkelling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef or going for a 4WD camping trip - these can bring your costs up. Luckily, ISIC has great travel deals available for you to maintain your travel budget while still seeing and experiencing the best parts of Australia. 

So, your family is probably right about your spending. But, that’s not to say you’re doing it wrong! It’s important to keep to your budget and enjoy the ride because you’ll only do it once - so do it right!