For many university students, balancing tuition, housing and grocery costs has become a monthly struggle, prompting them to seek cheaper options and the best student discounts available. According to CBC, food prices for Canadians have risen by 27 per cent over the past five years. Additionally, rent in British Columbia has continued to rise, with the permitted increase set at 3 per cent in 2025, up 2.6 per cent from 2020. Housing affordability, in particular, has been a significant issue across the province in recent years.
So, how do we balance our budgets and save some money at the checkout? The Omega has compiled research and resources to bring you some great tips.
According to the federal government, Canadian students spend between $240-$480 per month on food and groceries.
Many students say that the higher figure is most accurate.
“I’d say around $450,” TRU Computer Science graduate Martin Atanacio told the Omega.
To combat these higher costs, students would benefit from streamlining their value shopping practices by opting for less expensive in-house brands instead of name-brand items.
For example, stores like Walmart and Real Canadian Superstore offer some of the best prices for students, particularly on No Name and Great Deal brands, for essential foods.
“I do prefer the No Name brand from Superstore because it’s cheaper and great in quality,” Atanacio said.
For day-to-day items, such as cereal, coffee and some snacks, buying in bulk from a place like Bulk Barn can help minimize your costs over time.
And don’t forget, as a student, you get constant student discounts throughout Kamloops, thanks to programs like Deal Discount through TRUSU, the Student Price Card and apps like Flipp.
Kamloops boasts many excellent restaurants and coffee shops, making it convenient for busy students to grab a bite on the go. Still, over time, the cost associated with that convenience may outweigh the benefits it provides, turning your easy morning routine into a financial sinkhole. Nevertheless, there are always ways to overcome these issues.
Making your coffee at home and carrying a thermos can save you a significant amount of money each day compared to regular cafe runs, with the added bonus of your drink being made exactly the way you like it.
“I used to get coffee every day, but now I usually bring food from home and only buy something on campus about twice a week,” TRU Computer Science graduate Raiyan Mokhammad told the Omega.
Additionally, always keeping an eye out for student deals or happy hours in restaurants can be the key to enjoying the foods you love without breaking the bank.
“I use Instacart for groceries and apps like Tim Hortons or Subway’s to get deals, collect points and redeem them later,” Atanacio said.
Limiting the use of takeout apps like DoorDash and SkipTheDishes is vital, as the extra costs can make a significant difference, even over short periods.
“Eating out, even on campus, is always going to be more expensive,” Mokhammad said.
Even with rising costs, students can still enjoy the Kamloops food scene by smartly budgeting, using discounts and limiting takeout orders. Life as a student can be challenging, but with proper planning, it can get easier.