Living in Finland as a student doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and awareness of the options available, you can make your budget stretch further while enjoying your time here. Here are some tips to help you live affordably.
Save money on groceries by shopping at budget-friendly stores:
Lidl: Known for its low prices and good quality, Lidl is a popular choice for students.
S-Group (Prisma, S-Market, and Alepa): These stores offer a wide range of products, often at competitive prices. The smaller the store - the higher the prices tend to be. For the best deals, consider shopping at larger stores like Prisma whenever possible.
K-group (K-Citymarket, K-Supermarket, and K-market): While slightly more expensive, they also have discount sections for items nearing their expiry date.
Make the most of apps designed to provide exclusive student deals:
Frank App: The go-to app for student discounts in Finland. From clothing to entertainment, find deals tailored for students.
Pivo: Another useful app that offers discounts and helps you manage your finances.
Being a student in Finland comes with many perks, including discounts on various services, such as Public Transport, Restaurants and Cafés, and Cultural Events: Enjoy reduced prices at museums, theaters, and concerts.
Find great deals on second-hand items, from furniture to clothing:
Facebook Marketplace: A popular platform to buy and sell locally.
Tori.fi: Finland’s leading marketplace for second-hand goods.
Flea Markets (Kirpputori): Check out local flea markets like UFF, Fida and Kierrätyskeskus, for unique finds at affordable prices.
With these tips, you’ll be able to live comfortably on a student budget while still enjoying all that Finland has to offer.
Consider joining a 24/7 gym like Fitness24Seven, which offers affordable memberships and access to multiple locations across Finland, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Other gyms, such as Elixia and Fressi, provide more mid-range options with additional amenities like saunas, and wellness services for those seeking a bit more variety and comfort.
Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS): Provides healthcare services for degree students, including general medical care, dental services, and mental health support.
Public Healthcare: In case of non-urgent health concerns, you can visit your local health center (terveysasema).
General Emergency Number: 112
VR trains are a comfortable and efficient way to travel across Finland. They connect major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku.
Long-distance buses like Onnibus and Matkahuolto offer affordable options for reaching smaller towns and cities.
Ferries are a great way to visit Finland’s archipelago or travel to nearby countries like Sweden and Estonia. Popular operators include Viking Line, Tallink, and Eckerö.