Balik eskwela na ulit! As learners across the country gear up for a new academic year, they are once again faced with the challenge of how to wisely spend their baon. Let’s be real – student life isn’t cheap. Transportation, meals, school supplies, and the occasional cup of coffee keep them company during an all-nighter can all add up. But what if you’re on a strict allowance?
If this situation hits close to home for you, a new school year is a great time to start managing your money better. Luckily, handling your finances doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. With a few simple habits and the right digital tools – like the easy, no-fuss banking offers from CIMB Bank Philippines – you can start exploring ways to stretch your allowance, save smart, and still have enough left for the fun stuff.
Buy in bulk with help from your friends
Whether it’s for snack items or school materials, buying a larger size or in bulk may lower the cost per unit or serving. This can be done for items where students only need a few pieces like index cards or specialty paper, or even when splitting a larger bag of chips or a two-liter bottle of soda. To maximize savings, gather your friends and split these types of purchases with the entire gang. You’ll not only get better value for your money, you’ll also have more funds left over for other needs (or wants) as well.
Make use of student discounts
Never leave your student ID behind! From discounted public transport rides to museum passes and even software subscriptions for schoolwork, student discounts can help stretch your budget.
Maximize free resources
Since your tuition is already paid for – make the most of it! Take advantage of free school Wi-Fi, computer labs, printing credits, libraries, and even academic counseling or workshops. Instead of paying for these services, check what is already available on campus. The money you save from these essentials can go straight to your savings account for future use.
Save first, spend later
Try to strictly adhere to the “ipon before gastos” mindset this year. When you receive your allowance, immediately transfer a small portion – no matter how little – into a digital savings account. This is a timeless tip that Filipinos of all ages and status in life can follow to make sure they slowly but surely build their savings.
When choosing where to store your savings securely, a digital savings account is your best bet. Savings accounts like CIMB Bank PH’s UpSave and FastPlus offer better rates than most banks and are easily accessible via the Bank’s mobile app. This allows you to easily track and manage your savings while helping you earn interest. Until the end of June, you can even earn as much as 10% interest per annum through CIMB Bank PH’s Earn More promo series.
Jumpstart your savings this school year and download the CIMB Bank PH app today via the App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery. For more info about CIMB Bank PH, visit cimbbank.com.ph or follow its Facebook and Instagram pages.