10 foods to buy in bulk: Guide to bulk buying for students

swg cereal box big

Here's the ultimate student guide for what foods to buy in bulk, saving cash.

These cupboard staples will last for a while can be picked up in large quantities at your local cash and carry or even at big superstores.

Just don't overdo it because you're not going to save anything if it ends up in the bin.

Potatoes and onions

Stored well, but NEVER together, potatoes and onions can both last for a while. They should be both kept cool, dark and dry. For onions, a kitchen draw may well be suitable. Potatoes can do well under the kitchen sink or other cupboard, or even under the stairs.

Tins

The tin allows food to be kept for literally years so if you can find deals it can be good to stock up. Student staples include tinned tomatoes and beans, while cheap cream-of soups can come in handy to both eat on their own and to use in recipes.

Cereal

If you ensure its stored in an air tight container, cereal will last for a long time so save money by buying in bulk.

Popping corn

Why waste cash on ready-made or microwavable popcorn? Buy popping corn in bulk and make your own!

Meat

You can save money by buying meat in 'bulk' even in small quantities - for example, eight chicken breasts rather than just the two).

Obviously if you leave it fresh it'll quickly go to waste but freeze it and you can keep it for months. Freeze what you don't intend to use within 24 hours and make sure to defrost thoroughly for 24 hours before cooking from frozen.

Condiments

Stuff like ketchup, mayo and brown sauce will (probably) last forever in the cupboard, it'll at least keep enough to make buying one of those huge bottles worth it.

Baking ingredients

Depending how much you use them, things like flour and sugar can be brought in bigger bulk packs for savings.

Spices

Spices can turn bland and boring meals into something your taste buds won't hate you for.

Pasta and rice

The student staple: Dry, uncooked Pasta, as well as spaghetti and rice, can keep for literally YEARS in a cool, dry place. The exception to this rule is brown rice, but that'll still stay nice for up to six months.

Also, kitchen essentials

It's not just food, things like washing up liquid and kitchen roll can also be purchased in bulk to save money! Check out Amazon for some deals.

About the author: Thomas Brella

Thomas Brella is the founder of Student Hacks, starting the website in 2013 while studying at the University of Brighton to share tips and tricks on life as a cash-strapped student. He's now spent over 10 years scoping out the best ways to live on a budget

More on: Food
Follow on Twitter
Follow on Twitter
Like on Facebook