5 Ways To Save Money On The Gold Coast And Still Have A Great Time

One of the reasons the Gold Coast is such a great student city is because the cost of living is so much cheaper than bigger cities, but you can save even more dollars here if you’re savvy. Here’s some tips on how you can save money while still having a great time.

1. Dining out

With so many beautiful outdoor locations from the beach to the hinterland organise a barbecue with your friends. Embrace the true Aussie lifestyle and try out an open air BBQ experience. Read our article on the Top 5 BBQ Places on the Coast to help create your bucket list for the year.

2. Cheap rides

Use your super powers as a student make sure you travel by the tram/bus/ferry. Student concession rates on the Gold Coast are basically half price compared to a regular fare – they’re also much cheaper than Uber or driving your own car. You could travel from Helensvale down to Broadbeach for as little as $1.50, you simply need to link your Translink card online with your University ID and once approved it's valid until you graduate. Make sure you always have your student ID with you while travelling. The same card can be used for buses across the city or for the new ferry service too.

G:link

3. Social fun

Places like Strike Bowling (Surfers Paradise) and Putt Putt Mini Golf (Mermaid Beach) offer special student discounts. A game of bowling is as cheap as $8 from Monday to Thursday 10am - 4pm, so get your friends together and make a day of it! Make sure you carry your student ID to get your discount.

4. Star power

The Gold Coast has a great climate, so watching a movie outdoors makes perfect sense. Why pay to see a film when you can enjoy an evening under the stars and make new friends at no cost to you? Gold Coast City Council organises free movie screenings at various locations across the coast. Read our article on the most Unique Movie Experiences on the Coast to discover more.

5. Free support

Take advantage of the student facilities at the Gold Coast Student Hub in Southport. Aside from their free student support services you can book the Hub to host your own event, take part in group activities, hang out and study or just enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.

* Tanya Bhandari is studying Hospitality and Tourism at Griffith University.