Moving to the UK is exciting, but blimey, it can be pricey — especially when you’re still converting everything back to rands in your head. If you’ve ever found yourself whispering “how much?!” in a Tesco aisle, this guide is for you.

Here’s how to start living more like a local (without losing your mind or your money). We’ve gathered the UK’s best apps, websites, and everyday tricks to help you save properly — from groceries and travel to energy bills and meals out.

One of the UK’s most popular discount sites. You’ll find codes for groceries, clothing, takeaways, and just about everything in between.

This genius app lets you buy surprise bags of surplus food from local restaurants and bakeries at a fraction of the price. Perfect for adventurous snackers and late-night curry lovers.

Think of these as loyalty cards for the entire internet. If you’re shopping online, go through these sites first and get a chunk of your spend back in cash.

Every big UK store has its own points scheme. They’re free to join, and when you stack your points (especially during promotions), the savings add up fast.

Coffee lovers rejoice — get free drinks, special offers, and even birthday perks. You’d be surprised how quickly the free coffees start rolling in.

Switching providers in the UK isn’t just allowed — it’s encouraged. Whether it’s broadband, mobile, or gas and electricity, you could save hundreds a year just by changing providers.

💡 Life Hack:
The average household can save over £200 a year on energy bills just by switching providers. And the process only takes a few clicks.

Train tickets in the UK can be eye-watering, but this clever app breaks journeys into cheaper segments — completely legit, and the savings are often huge.

If you’ve worked in healthcare, emergency services, or social care (even in South Africa), you may qualify. It offers discounts at hundreds of retailers, restaurants, and holiday spots.

Still studying or have access to a student email? These sites offer incredible student discounts on fashion, tech, and more — even Uber Eats.

Prescriptions cost £9.90 per item in England. But if you’re on regular meds, the NHS Prepayment Certificate can save you a small fortune. You pay a flat fee for 3 or 12 months, and it covers all your prescriptions during that time.

We’ve heard from SA expats who saved over £150 a year just with this one change.

We get it — saving money isn’t always top of mind when you’re still settling into a new country. But a few small tweaks to how you shop, travel, and pay for things can make a big difference. These aren’t just gimmicks — they’re everyday tools locals rely on, and now you can too.

Print it out, share it with your mates, and save yourself from being the South African who pays full price for everything. That’s just not who we are.

The information in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Consult a qualified expert before making decisions based on this content.