Taking into account the pound-dollar exchange rate
and average college student’s budget, saving money is a must while in the UK,
especially if you plan on socializing and/or traveling. One of the areas to cut
back on is basic needs/flat shopping (e.g., tissues, toilet paper, kitchen
accessories). Rather than become a coupon addict (not that there is anything
wrong with using coupons, I use them regularly), take some time to browse your
local pound shop. Pound shop fare costs, well, a pound. But don’t be scared off
by the idea if you’re imagining a mirror image of dollar shops in the US. Of the
times I’ve been to dollar shops (not including the amazing Daiso
stores where face massagers and chopsticks are a couple of feet away from each
other), I’ve never really felt compelled to purchase anything. Most of the time
this is because I’m usually not interested in the merchandise offered. Not at
the pound shop, though.
Pound shops are a great resource for cheap
batteries, cleaning supplies, and an assortment of brand-name snacks (emphasis
on “brand-name”). Want to try Vegemite without buying a huge jar? Go to the
pound shop. Need some garbage bags? Go to the pound shop. Of course like any
dollar store, there will be random merchandise as well. If you’re in need of a random
generic music cd or toy cars, the pound shop is your shopping destination. I
would suggest taking a look at the cutlery there as well, especially if your
stay is only a semester long. Why buy an expensive set when you’re in the
country for only a short period of time? I bought a mug at the pound shop in
Norwich and still use it to this day.
A major chain, Poundland,
can be found throughout the UK— if there’s one in your area I highly suggested
taking a look.
-L.
-L.
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