Student Discounts for Semester 2!

One of the things I encourage most students to explore is student discounts at a variety of stores, online and IRL. Sites like HerCampus.com often dedicate many posts to student discounts from a variety of stores - from tech to fashion.

Running Out of Space?

Think efficiency! You don't need to be a hoarder to accumulate a lot of baggage at home. Sometimes it's hard to create new ways to store items, so hopefully this video might inspire you.

INDUSTRIAL DECOR TREND

Some trends are hard to follow either because they're too expensive, or they're too time-consuming. Nothing quite captures the essence of what The Student Budget stands for like the industrial home decor trend: environmentally friendly (recycling), cheap (through thrift/op shops), times-saving (no need for elaborate planning - odd, unusual combinations make super authentic pieces). 

I have to admit, this may not be the most objective stance on a decor trend... minimal industrial makes my knees weak. I find it gritty and grungy, with a unique sophisticated twist. It can look like you've put a lot of effort when in reality, they're just random buys you've made at a variety of secondhand or thrift shops. You could always head over to something like Bunnings for specific items you need, but the beauty of this trend is the ease with which you can decorate....

PUBLIC SPEAKING: HOW TO SQUASH NERVES & ANXIETY

If you've managed to get this far in life without doing any public speaking, spill. What is your secret??? Chances are you’ve had to do some sort of presentation at least once, whether at school or work. There are very few people who revel in the idea of speaking before an audience, and the general consensus is that it sucks. There are countless more pleasant things to do. Like epilating your back or getting chilli in your eye. Hobbies, yo!

"Do you give any student discounts?"

As a student, you're bound to have used that line some where. I'd be surprised if it's not a common question on your lips. It should be. There are countless places that provide student discounts, online and in real life. They may not advertise student discounts, so don't be shy about asking for them. Many places are quite understanding and charitable to students, with many students either working or frequenting there. Other places may introduce student discounts due to a high number of requests. The benefits of asking far outweigh the embarrassment you may feel, so give it a go and ask.

CRAVINGS: WHAT YOUR BODY ACTUALLY NEEDS

Food cravings can be hard to fight. Especially when we misinterpret the signals our bodies are sending and consume the wrong foods.

SUPER CHEAP, QUICK & EASY WAYS TO DECOR

Creating items for home decor can be fun if they're quick and cheap. I guess some people can find them fun even if they're not. I gravitate towards the simpler DIYs. Here are some photos that might inspire or motivate you to add your special touch to you living quarters. 

50 BEST USES OF COCONUT OIL

...it was a struggle to pick the top 50, considering how many there are. I challenge someone to find me a product, natural or man-made, that can provide more uses than coconut oil.

FLATMATES.COM.AU

Thinking of moving out and are struggling to find shared accommodation? Or perhaps you need someone to move in with you? If you're in Australia, check out Flatemates.com.au. If you don't already know about it, then shame on you. They've been online since 1997 (I didn't realise the internet existed that far back). Accounts are protected against scammers, so you shouldn't worry about kidnapping or human trafficking. This isn't sponsored. The Student Budget hasn't even reached that level of audience yet. 

GOT A GRIDDLE?

If every time you use the griddle pan your meat and vegetables are smoking up a storm, then you're probably using it wrong. Avoiding using too much seasoning, sauces or oil when cooking on a griddle. Check out this super-quick, 1-minute guide:

HOW TO: MAKE YOUR HAIR GROW FASTER

Humans are such strange creatures. We're trying to both find easier ways to remove it and increase it. Promoting hair growth is cheaper and simpler than you might expect. "Vitamins" and other bottled promises of hair growth can create adverse reactions. It's always a little bit of a gamble when experimenting with those types of products. There are many sites (countless, really) that provide tips on promoting hair growth, but who has time and patience to sit and read through pages and pages of information? I've found the most talked about natural alternatives to promote hair growth. They're simple, easy, and will 100% give you results. 

CLOTHING CARE SYMBOLS & MEASURING EQUIVALENTS

If you struggle to understand the care symbols on the tags of your clothing items, don't worry - you're not alone. Sometimes giving it to your mother or someone else just isn't an option. And running it through Google isn't that easy... How would you even describe some of them?! Luckily, some caring individual out in the internet world (Primer Magazine) put together an invaluable list of these symbols and their meanings. I've also found a picture with measuring equivalents, because we aren't all experienced in the kitchen and need some guidance.

VITAMINS & THEIR USES

If you're borderline useless when it comes to knowledge on nutrition, then this might come in handy for you... 

WORK HOURS & VACATION TIME AROUND THE WORLD

Reckon you work too much? Think your boss is pushing you too hard? Is your health suffering as a result? Are you wondering whether the grass is greener on the other side of the world? Could I ask any more questions? Probably. Here are some interesting statistics on numbers of hours worked (and vacation time) across many different countries (I wish we could see China's stats). 

THE ULTIMATE GREEN SMOOTHIE FORMULA

If you're not a fan of smoothies yet, you need to get your act together. They're so ridiculously delicious and give you an amazing energy boost. There's no better way to give your body the nutrients it so desperately needs. You can even get your daily dose of fruits and veggies from one blend! I won't even begin to tell you how quick they are to make - they're perfect for if you've got little time in the morning for food prep!

TRAVEL TIP # 003: HOW TO TIP AROUND THE WORLD

Tipping can be really tricky, and often illegal. Don't get caught out! Check out this guide to avoid unwanted situations.  

TRAVEL TIP # 002: HOW TO PACK

If you're not a frequent traveller, then packing will be a pain in your glutes. Packing depends on many things: 

• the culture of the destination
• weather
• length of time you're travelling
• what you plan to do
• how accessible washing machines are, etc. 

The biggest rule is to wear your heaviest or bulkiest clothing while you travel. That way you'll have more space in your suitcase. If you're travelling for pleasure, try to remember to leave some space in your suitcase/s for your purchases. Avoid the option of leaving behind half of your belongings. Here are several combinations for women and men that might help with your decisions when packing. Also remember to check whether your destination will have things like hairdryers, towels, bedding, etc. You don't want to be buying those basics while you're on holiday. 

TRAVEL TIP # 001: WHEN TO BUY AIRLINE TICKETS

You don't need to rely on a travel agent to organise your flights. They will almost always charge extra (everyone has to make a living). There are some awesome tips and tricks hanging around online about when the best time to buy airline tickets is.

37 QUOTES THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO TRAVEL

LAUNDRY STAIN CHEAT SHEET

Not many of us have the luxury of having others do our laundry. And when we butt heads with stubborn stains, we can be at a loss for how to remove them. Until now! Hazaa! This might be one of the handiest posts I've ever submitted for this blog. These are awesome tips on how to get rid of stains from chocolate to blood using ingredients you should be able to find around your house.

10 DIY CLEANING SOLUTIONS

Super easy, inexpensive ways to clean anything from stains on clothes to showers and dishwashers.

MASTER THE ART OF NAPPING

I don't know about you, but I'm a serial napper. I love naps almost as much as I love food and furries. I look forward to naps for a variety of reason. They're how I take a break, they're how I relax, they're my hobby and they're my escape. I imagine a lot of people have similar reasons. But there are incorrect ways to nap. If your naps are affecting your night sleep or even daytime performance, you're doing something wrong. Perhaps they're too long, or at the wrong time of day. 

Here is a breakdown the types of naps you can take, and how to make the most of them...

The Her Campus Guide to College Life - Pre-Order!

Hold off from sending that text, stop your microwave, pause that game - and get ready for this awesome announcement from Her Campus: Their first ever BOOK: The Her Campus Guide to College Life! The book is available for pre-order now! If you're a fan of the site, then you will fall in love with the book.

HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT YOUR COFFEE?

Do you see yourself as a bit of a coffee expert? Do you know the difference between a Long Black and an Americano? What about a Dry Cappuccino and a Black Eye? This Field Guide will give you the low-down on what's what in the coffee universe. 

THE 7-DAY SMARTPHONE DETOX

Do you check your phone first thing in the morning? Do you constantly take photos of food? Is your only form of communication with your friends and the outside world through social media? You may have a problem. Luckily, it won't require rehab. Just some easy, week-long detox. This is healthy for the soul, and brilliant for anyone who's phone is attached to their hip. Or hand. Once you get through the week, you'll be surprised how easy it was to detach yourself. Perhaps you'll even make it a permanent move. 

MY EASY-DIY PICKS OF FEB

I've scoured the interwebs for the best (and most useful) DIYs for the month. I'm not a DIYer unless it's very straight forward, requires minimal material, is fast and cheap, or is something that will make my life easier.  In saying that, some of these may not necessarily be as useful as they are pretty. Others may be awesome presents (even more awesome that you've made it yourself!). So I hope you find some inspiration from these. If you've attempted some of these and are pleased/displeased, leave a comment! I'd love to hear from you! Or if you've found other cool DIYs, link them below!

I hope this is a tradition I can continue monthly, but my memory isn't superb. I'll try not to fail you.

20+ EASY WAYS TO ADD PROTEIN TO EVERY MEAL

You don't have to be a fitness junkie to regularly incorporate protein into your meals. Nor do you have to change you vegetarian or vegan diet. Here is a sample of products that you can use daily in your meals that can substitute chicken or chickpeas. 

BACK TO SCHOOL DIYs

Its here! For some the start-up of school again is gonna mean they get to have purpose once more, for others its gonna mean they have to add more to their already full plate. But whether you're excited for it or not, you've gotta do some prep (if you haven't already). So here are some quick, cheap alternatives to everyday necessities (and luxuries) that will get you ready for this semester... 

3-INGREDIENTS ICE CREAM RECIPE!!

Feel less guilty because you've made it yourself! This guy has some brilliant videos on simple, easy-to-follow recipes. This is probably one of my favourite.

MINIMALIST DECOR

...because sometimes we don't really have much of a choice in terms of how we decorate our home.

"Oh, are you guys doing the minimal thing?" 
"...yep. That's, yes. That's what we're going for. Minimal."

Obviously some actually CHOOSE to go minimal, because its easy. Not always cheap, but definitely easy. To make it cheap, you have to think smart. Think few colours. Think easy-to-maintain. Think long-lasting. It'll make your space look bigger and cleaner. A cluttered home makes for a cluttered mind.

Here are some minimal layouts that might inspire you to keep it simple, stupid...

7 REASONS YOU SHOULD THRIFT FOR HOME DECOR

Op shops or thrift stores are better than vintage shops. Although vintage shops are more concentrated with authentic and unique old items, they're waaaaaay more expensive. Like, way. If you're after something more specific and money isn't an issue for you - stick with vintage. Otherwise, op shops/thrift stores are cheaper and probably more fun (definitely a treasure hunt feel to it). You will need to clean your items before putting them to use, and some might need a polish. Perhaps even a paint job. But it'll still be at least half the price of vintage pieces.

DECOR: MOTIVATION TO THRIFT

Some amazing material to help you feel inspired. 

ROOM HACKS: PREPPING FOR UNI

HerCampus.com is an awesome awesome site for ladies living the student life. It covers a wide variety of topics and is a great place for inspiration. With the new semester approaching fast, getting your crib in order is a smart way to start preparing yourself for hell again. Just kidding. HerCampus has compiled a few awesome hacks and DIYs for dorm rooms (or any rooms, really). Some of these might be gender-specific, but the majority can be used by anyone:

PRINT YOUR OWN CALENDAR

Finding the perfect calendar for when you're busy isn't easy. And it's not necessarily cheap, either. I don't know about you, but as much as I love puppies and other furry baby animals, I like to keep my calendars simple, and with a lot of space for notes and reminders. I can barely rely on my memory to eat, let alone important dates and events. 

Arm Knitting?!

Knitting isn't for everyone. It requires patience. And patience. However its great for stress-relief, promotes healthy brain activity, and has countless other benefits. One knitting trend that's been gaining many followers recently is arm knitting. Don't throw out your knitting needles, though. This is just a somewhat lazier alternative (though inconvenient, if you have to drop what you're doing) that provides a thicker, chunkier end result. This video from Michaels Stores on YouTube takes you through the process of creating an infinity scarf. Something that definitely comes in handy, even in Australia.

International Student Discount Card

This might actually be cooler than sliced bread. Sta Travel offers a number of discount cards for students, youths and teachers. These cards offer a range of big discounts on a huge range of products nationally and internationally. 

How to: Dry Nails Fast

Doing your own manicure is almost like meditating. It's calming, relaxing, and great for unwinding from stressful events. It's also pretty fun once you get the hang of it and master the art of not looking like a 2-year-old attacked you with paint. Sometimes you don't have the luxury of taking your time, and you're in a rush. Waiting for nails to dry can be a pain, and seeing nail polish smeared across your fingers, clothes and walls isn't fun. This YouTube beauty guru has got a neat trick for drying nails fast. 1-minute fast.

Lemons: The Golden Fruit

Lemons these days have become quite pricey here in Queensland. But when you consider the countless benefits they hold, their juicy goodness will seem like the cheapest elixir of life. Here are 16 of the many things lemon water is capable of doing...

Rent Clothes!

Pick up your jaw. This is no time for dramatics. If you're limited on cash or don't want to commit to a permanent purchase, it might be of some benefit to visit online stores that rent out formal/dressy clothing. These sites would probably be for more glamorous occasions than simply a girl's night out, but they do have a large range of variety and prices, so it's up to you on how and when you take advantage of this system.

DIY Distress

Buying distressed jeans tends to be more expensive than buying immaculate jeans. Why? Because someone went through the effort of distressing them for you. And yet the actual process of distressing isn't even remotely hard. This short, straight-to-the-point video covers the basics of DIY distress.

Sweater Weather Prep

We're heading towards the end of summer, but some areas around Australia have been needing to pull out their warmer clothes earlier than might be expected. So with that in mind, it's probably a good idea to keep these sweater tips and tricks at the back of your mind. They'll keep your sweaters lasting, and staying newer for longer. 

P.S. When it comes to DIYs, or tips and tricks, there's nothing more I love than a simple, quick, quality video that's straight to the point and filmed exceptionally. 

Supercook.com

If you haven't heard of Supercook.com, it's basically your fairy godmother. In a way. Sort of. Its a site devoted to helping you help you. When you're stuck on what to cook, have limited ingredients, or want to play chef roulette, hope onto Supercook. You list the ingredients you have or want to use, and Supercook provides you with a list of recipes. If you're feeling picky, you can even specify recipe type. 

There's a reason TIME magazine rated it in their 50 Best Websites of 2014. Which, by the way, you should totally check out.

How to get out of duct tape

Not exactly something you'd find under the DIY section of any site, but a good trick to learn. Especially when fun and games with friends reaches a level you're not prepared to see through. Or perhaps for that date you're about to go on with that weirdo from Tinder with the creepy mustache. This could end up finding that unreasonably large corner of your mind that's dedicated to unusual animal facts and dad jokes. It's simple enough in that if you are in a situation where you actually need to free your duct taped hands, you'd probably remember this. But if you're feet are duct taped... you're on your own there. Now stop reading this and watch the video...

PT 1 SCHOOL SALE OVER! PT II - COMING SOON!!!

HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY

Infused water = easy + cheap + HEALTHY

We've seen millions of photos on Instagram or Pinterest of gym junkies and health-focused individuals and their infused water. They're always smiling, fit, tan, and holding up a rainbow in a bottle/jar. We think, "naw, that's cool", double tap, and keep scrolling. No more! If you haven't tried this at home, it's time that you do. 

Nutella + eggs = GLUTEN-FREE BROWNIES

What you will need: 

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup Nutella

What you need to do:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350° F. Spray an 8″ x 8″ baking pan with cooking spray. Line the pan with baking paper so the ends hang over the sides.

2. Using the whisk attachment, beat the eggs in your mixer on medium-high speed for 8 minutes. The eggs should be tripled in volume and pale yellow in color, YOU MUST do this for 8 minutes to make these brownies work!

STYLING THE BASIC WHITE TEE

I'm rarely one to promote "essential" closet items - I think everyone needs to develop their own style. One person's essentials aren't necessarily another's. However, a basic white t-shirt definitely should be in everyone's closet. 


Styling a white tee sort of comes as a no-brainer, until it actually comes to you styling it (we've all been there). Sometimes the simplest, best and most effortless looks turn out the best. There are plenty of videos on YouTube by beauty gurus who give tips on the best way to style, but this short video by Chriselle Lim might just be my favourite. It's a good place to start. 

BACK TO SCHOOL: Online tutorials

We all struggle every now and then with certain areas in a course. Sometimes things just don't click, no matter how hard we try to understand the content from the lecture notes or the course textbook. Paying for a tutor on/off campus isn't always an option.

DIYs - Gender Specific?

If "DIY" and "men" are two words you don't recognise in the same sentence, then prepared to be learned hard.

I dare say that men DIY more than women, with their focus being on fixing the necessities (no offence, ladies). However, a recent decrease in male-DIYs has been noted, with some attributing it to the brushing aside of fatherly-type behaviours and an uptake of more motherly roles. Whatever the reason for this turning trend, bother genders need to get (or return) on the DIY bandwagon.

StudentVIP.com.au

Have you checked out Australia's biggest student website? If you haven't... why??? Become a member! It's free, and there are only benefits to membership! StudentVIP.com.au offers students discount on a range of products, such as textbooks and electronics, and provides study materials for a wide range of subjects. Its very user-friendly, and also allows you to sell your old textbooks and study notes. YES. STUDY NOTES. Bet you have a few of those. Additionally, there are tutors available for over 7,000 subjects from most universities around Australia. Prices usually hover between $20 - $50.

Scars & Cellulite? Easy DIY Coffee Scrub!

Many people suffer from acne scarring, stretch marks, and cellulite. Some wear these proudly as trophies from battles past, however most of us go out of our way to cover up or seek treatment. 

There are plenty of DIY remedies that you can do at home, and they usually involve the following 3 ingredients...

2015 BACK TO SCHOOL SALE ON NOW

Check out our store for details!

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: Vintage Briefcase

Unisex Vintage Faux Leather Briefcase/Backpack
Price: $14.99 

Details 
Weight: 670g

Length: 25cm

Width:  22cm
Height: 10cm

Material: Faux leather 

Colours: Warm brown or mustard

Adjustable strap allows for either a messenger-style bag or a backpack. Gold detailing adds for a classy touch. 

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: CANVAS BACKPACK

CANVAS BACKPACK
Price: $9.99 

Details: 
Weight: 414g

Length: 44cm

Width:  29cm
Height: 3cm

Material: Canvas 

Colours: Pink with small white polkadots, and warm brown detialing & mint green with small white polkadots, and warm brown detialing

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: ADJUSTABLE BAG

Adjustable Messenger/Backpack
Price: $7.99 

Details: 
Weight: 364g

Length: 47cm

Width:  35cm
Height: 2cm (laying down)

Material: Canvas and faux leather 

Colours: Cream and warm brown, khaki and warm brown, black and warm brown

Adjustable strap allows for either a messenger-style bag or a backpack. Silver detailing adds for a classic touch.

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: LADIES BACKPACK

Faux Leather Backpack
Price: $9.99 

Details: 

Weight: 730g

Length: 35cm

Width:  30cm
Height: 10cm

Material: Faux leather 

Colours: Cream and warm brown

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: FAUX LEATHER BACKPACK

Faux Leather Backpack
Price: $9.99 

Details: 

Weight: 669g

Length: 45cm

Width:  35cm
Height: 2cm

Material: Faux leather 

Colour: Black

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: MILITARY BACKPACK

Military Backpack
Price: $15.99 

Details: 

Weight: 999g

Length: 46cm

Width:  28cm
Height: 6cm (lying flat)

Material: Canvas 

Colours: DCU, Jungle camo, ACU, Black

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: NEWSPAPER BACKPACK

Newspaper Backpack
Price: $8.99 

Details: 

Weight: 336g

Length: 43cm

Width:  33cm
Height: 1cm

Material: Canvas

Pattern: Newspaper cut-outs

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: LACE BACKPACK

Lace Backpack
Price: $11.99 

Details: 

Weight: 387g

Length: 43cm

Width:  33cm
Height: 2cm (lying flat)

Material: Canvas & lace

Colours: Dark blue with white lace & light blue with white lace

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: FLAGS BACKPACK

Flags Backpack
Price: $11.99 

Details: 

Weight: 454g

Length: 48cm

Width:  33cm
Height: 2cm (lying flat)

Material: Canvas

Patterns: Mixed flags or American flag

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store. 

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE: Galaxy Backpack

Unisex Galaxy Backpack
Price: $9.99 

Details: 

Weight: 482g

Length: 46cm

Width:  37cm
Height: 1cm (lying flat)

Material: Canvas 

Colours: Pink galaxy and Blue galaxy

For more details, click on the title and follow the link to our temporary eBay store.