Looking to save money in the UK as an expat? Budgeting can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re adapting to a new country, but with the right strategies, you can save up to £500 a month—without giving up on life’s little pleasures, like your daily coffee.
As a Brazilian expat, I’ve experienced the challenges of living on a budget while building a life in the UK. Growing up in a working-class family, I learned early how to manage money. From tutoring kids at 15 to pay for small personal treats, to working during university to cover tuition and living expenses, I developed habits that still help me today.
In this post, I’ll share my best tips for budgeting smarter as an expat and how small changes can make a big difference in your savings.
1. Master Meal Prep: Save £150+ Monthly with Easy Recipes and Lunch Ideas
One of the easiest ways to save money in the UK is by preparing your own meals. As an expat, this can also be a great opportunity to bring a taste of home into your routine. For me, as a Brazilian, cooking dishes like tutu de feijão (ask me in the comments if you want the recipe!) makes lunch feel extra special.
I also enjoy exploring cuisines from other cultures, like Japanese sushi and onigiri, hearty curries, or classic pasta dishes. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to control the quality of ingredients, which is perfect if you prioritise healthy eating.
Pro Tip: Make your meal prep enjoyable by using aesthetically pleasing containers and lunch bags. Here are some of my favourites:
By preparing your meals in advance, you could save up to £150–£200 per month, compared to eating out or buying ready-made lunches.
2. Save Money on Groceries: Tesco, Lidl, and Clubcard Strategies
Grocery shopping is a major expense, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. While Aldi is known for its low prices, I personally stick to Tesco and Lidl. With the Tesco Clubcard and an additional 4% employee discount from my workplace, I maximise savings on my weekly shop.
Pro Tip:
- Always check the Clubcard app for deals and discounts.
- Compare prices between Tesco and Lidl to get the best value.
- Opt for store-brand products—they’re often just as good as the branded options but significantly cheaper.
A strategic grocery plan can help you save around £100 a month, especially if you avoid impulse buys.
3. Free Entertainment in the UK: Museums, Parks, and Local Events
You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy life in the UK. Cities like Cambridge, where I live, offer free access to amazing museums, and London is filled with free galleries like the British Museum and Tate Modern.
Local parks are also a great option for a relaxing day out, especially if the weather is nice. Many councils organise free or low-cost events, such as outdoor cinemas, festivals, and workshops.
Pro Tip: Use apps like Eventbrite or Skiddle to find free or affordable activities in your area.
By replacing costly outings with free entertainment, you could save £50–£100 per month.
4. Utility Bills: Use Monzo Pots and Compare Providers to Save Big
Managing utility bills can be tricky, but with the right tools, you can cut costs. Start by comparing providers on platforms like Uswitch to find the best deals on energy, broadband, and mobile plans. Lesser-known providers like giffgaff for mobile and Now Broadband for internet often offer cheaper options.
Banking Tip: Digital banks like Monzo and Starling allow you to create budgeting “pots” for specific expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries. This helps you stay organised and ensures you never overspend.
By switching providers and managing your budget smartly, you can save around £50–£80 per month.
5. How to Cut Transport Costs and Still Get Around Comfortably
Transport can be one of the biggest drains on your budget, but there are ways to save. In Cambridge, I cycle or walk whenever possible—it’s free and great exercise! For public transport, consider getting an Oyster card or monthly travel pass to reduce daily expenses.
For longer journeys, book train tickets in advance through platforms like Trainline, where you can find significant discounts.
Pro Tip: Check if your workplace offers a commuter scheme or discounts on travel cards.
With these strategies, you could save £50–£70 per month on transport.
6. Enjoy Coffee Without the Guilt: Save Money and Brew at Home
Buying coffee from cafés is a lovely experience, and I still treat myself to a cup when I meet friends. However, brewing coffee at home has become one of my favourite rituals. I use a coffee maker like this one to make my mornings easier. Paired with a reusable thermos, it’s a budget-friendly and sustainable option.
By replacing daily café visits with home-brewed coffee, you could save £20–£30 a month, while still enjoying the occasional coffee shop outing.
7. Minimalism and Mindful Spending: Save Money by Owning Less
Living in the UK taught me to embrace minimalism. Before making any purchase, I ask myself: Do I really need this? This habit has saved me from countless impulse buys.
Pro Tip:
- Use the “30-day rule” for non-essential purchases.
- Shop second-hand on apps like Vinted or Depop for great deals.
This mindset can help you save £50–£100 a month by reducing unnecessary spending.
8. Monthly Savings Breakdown: How to Save £500+ as an Expat in the UK
Here’s a breakdown of how these tips can add up:
| Category | Savings |
|---|---|
| Meal Prep | £150–£200 |
| Grocery Savings | £100 |
| Free Entertainment | £50–£100 |
| Utilities | £50–£80 |
| Transport | £50–£70 |
| Coffee Savings | £20–£30 |
| Total Potential Savings | £420–£580 |
Why This Matters: Budget Example for Solo Living
Let’s consider the average UK salary: £37,430/year. After taxes and student loan repayments, the net monthly income is approximately £2,494 (source: Income Tax Calculator).
For a single person renting a one-bedroom flat in Cambridge:
- Rent: £1,000
- Council Tax: £120
- Utilities: £120
- Groceries: £250
- Transport: £150
That leaves £854 for savings and discretionary spending. By implementing these tips and saving an average of £500/month, you could save up to £6,000/year, which could go toward travel, a house deposit, or even an emergency fund.
Final Thoughts: Start Saving Money in the UK Today
Saving money in the UK as an expat doesn’t mean giving up on the things you love. It’s about finding balance, being resourceful, and making small adjustments that add up. If I could make it work—coming from Brazil, juggling studies and work—I believe anyone can do it too.
If you have any other money-saving tips or want recipes like my tutu de feijão, let me know in the comments! Let’s keep the conversation going.