Student Budget & Shopping

Living in Europe on a student budget requires some smart hacks. From scoring free furniture to slashing your subscription bills, here is how to save money.

1. eBay Kleinanzeigen (Now just "Kleinanzeigen")

When you move into a new student apartment (WG), you might need to buy a bed, desk, or wardrobe. Do not buy everything new from IKEA!

  • Second-Hand Goldmine: Kleinanzeigen is the German equivalent of Craigslist or OLX. It is incredibly popular and completely safe if you pick up items in person. You can find high-quality used IKEA furniture for 70-80% off the original price.
  • "Zu Verschenken" (For Free!): This is the ultimate student hack. People who are moving out often give away perfectly good furniture, microwaves, or bikes completely for free—as long as you are willing to come and carry it away. Always search for the "Zu Verschenken" filter in your city.

2. Student Discounts (Studentenrabatt)

Your university ID card is essentially a VIP discount card. Always ask, *"Haben Sie Studentenrabatt?"* (Do you have a student discount?).

Essential Digital Discounts:

  • UNiDAYS & StudentBeans: Download these apps immediately. You verify your university email and unlock 10% to 20% discounts on major brands like Apple, Adidas, ASOS, and H&M.
  • Spotify Premium & Apple Music: Both offer heavily discounted student plans (usually half price).
  • Amazon Prime Student: You get the first 6 months of Amazon Prime completely free, and after that, it is 50% off.
  • Museums & Cinemas: Almost all cultural institutions in Europe offer a student ticket. A €15 museum ticket might only cost you €5.