This article was written by Urmi Pandit, a student writer based in Nottingham.
Funds are tight at uni, we get it. But the drinking culture waits for no one so you’ll have to adapt as best as you can – that’s where we’re here to help. From homemade cocktails to party-perfect jelly shots, here’s a list of 10 of the best cheap party drinks to make at uni to give you some great starting ideas.

1. Vodka + Squash

10 of the best cheap party drinks to make at uni
Source: Sainsbury’s
First up on the list is my personal go-to for cheap party drinks to make at uni.  Chances are, as a student, you’ll have at least one bottle of squash lying around your flat. If not, you can get one for as low as 20p at some supermarkets (try Sainsbury’s or Aldi!), so it’s as cost-effective as can be. Pair that with a bit of vodka and water, and you’ll be set for the night. This one can be especially helpful for avoiding a hangover the next morning, as the water will make sure you stay hydrated throughout the night.

2. Rum + Coke

Rum + Coke
Source: Canva
This one’s a classic bar/club drink, but it’s possible to make it cheaper yourself. Chances are you’re used to compromising on a lot of home luxuries at uni. So if you can tolerate cheap off-brand supermarket Cola, and can invest in a bottle of rum – that can last you weeks if you’re smart – this is a great option.

3. Woo Woo

Woo Woo
Source: Canva
Recreating your favourite Wetherspoons pitcher cocktails in your uni flat is a fun option to do with your friends at pre-drinks. One of my personal favourites, a Woo Woo will require:
  • 50ml Peach Schnapps
  • 50ml vodka
  • 100ml cranberry juice
  • A handful of ice (if you want)
If you can split the cost of the drinks between you, it’ll be extremely affordable (and most importantly, delicious).

4. Sex on the Beach

Sex on the Beach
Source: Canva
Another very cheap party drink that you can easily conjure up in your kitchen is a Sex on the Beach. Just add a little bit less of your Peach Schnapps and vodka, and fill the rest up with a bit of orange juice. Guarantee you’ll actually start feeling like you’re on a tropical island, a few sips in.

5. Long Island Iced Tea

Long Island Iced Tea
Source: Canva
A word of warning with this one: it usually just tastes like your average non-alcoholic iced tea. So drink at your own peril! Take 45ml and 15ml of any leftover vodka and gin, and mix them with some cheap iced tea and Coke. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can add a little lemon slice as a garnish – your choice. If you’re truly strapped for cash, Lidl will supply you with the most affordable off-brand mixers you’ve ever seen.

6. Jelly shots

 
Jelly shots
Source: Canva
Jelly shots are the perfect addition to any uni house party – we promise they’ll be a crowd favourite.  The beauty of choice means you can make a variety of flavours. You’ll only need three ingredients: gelatin (we recommend orange, strawberry or raspberry), water and any liquor of your choice.   Vodka or white rum are both excellent options for your alcohol, but any other spirits – like gin or tequila – will work just as well. Jelly sachets are usually around £1 or less, so there’ll be no need to break the bank for these.

7. Sangria

Sangria
Source: Canva
Coming up to the middle of July, I’m sure you’re on the hunt for a nice refreshing summer drink to add to the mix. BBC’s Good Food website has a delicious homemade sangria recipe, mainly with ingredients you’ll be able to find around your house:
  • Two oranges
  • Two pears
  • Two lemons
  • 200g red berries
  • 3 tbsp caster sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 750ml light red wine
  • 100ml Spanish brandy
  • 300ml sparkling water
  • Ice

8. Blue Vodka Punch

Blue Vodka Punch
Source: Canva
Apparently, this drink is actually called a Toilet Water, but we didn’t want to put you off – it’s not what it sounds like! You can stay hydrated while you pre-drink by combining vodka, Triple Sec, Powerade and lime soda. Think of it as a slightly fancier Powerade cocktail, if you want. Add 750ml vodka, 120ml Triple Sec, Mixed Berry Powerade to 2 litres of lime soda with a bit of ice, and you’re set.

9. A classic G&T

A classic G&T
Source: Canva
A firm favourite with most middle-class British mums, and for the right reasons. When you’re really on a budget, and at uni you usually are, a bottle of Gordon’s gin is a good investment. They have a range of fruity options to choose from, and all you’ll then need is the cheapest tonic water you can find.

10. Jungle Juice

Jungle Juice (or whatever you decide to call it) is a perfect cheap joint drink option for parties, birthdays or anything like that! You can change the quantities for any number of people, but think of those big classic communal punch bowls. The instructions are simple, and I’m sure you’ve seen these on TikTok:
  1. Grab a big bucket, box or tub
  2. Pour in a most likely poorly-measured mix of a few different spirits of your choice
  3. Balance them out with a combination of your favourite juices, soft drinks or mixers
  4. Optional, but recommended: add some edible glitter to make it just a bit more exciting (Tesco’s one for baking is perfect)
  5. Add some sliced fruit, sweets or any added extras you want
  6. Mix it all together and pace yourself – chances are it’ll be a messy night  
So there we have it – your go-to list of the best affordable drinks to make at uni. For more like this, make sure to check out 10 of the best winter cocktail recipes for lockdown.

Authors

  • Aminah is a dedicated content expert and writer at Unifresher, bringing a unique blend of creativity and precision to her work. Her passion for crafting engaging content is complemented by a love for travelling, cooking, and exploring languages. With years spent living in cultural hubs like Barcelona, Sicily, and Rome, Aminah has gained a wealth of experiences that enrich her perspective. Now based back in her hometown of Manchester, she continues to immerse herself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. An enthusiastic Manchester United supporter, Aminah also enjoys delving into psychology and true crime in her spare time.

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