How to Save Money In The Netherlands

Blogs News 06.09.23

How to Save Money While Working in the Netherlands through DB Work

Having a job in the Netherlands through DB Work not only means access to helpful information for an easier adaptation to a new country but also a unique Dutch lifestyle, which can be expensive if you don't manage your finances well. Many employees abroad aim to save money, either to support their families back home or for personal needs. Whatever your motivation or needs may be, here are some tips on how you can save money during your stay in this country if you have a job in the Netherlands.

Plan Your Monthly Expenses:

Keep track of your expenses. It doesn't have to be a complicated process, just a habit that takes a few minutes to record your usual monthly spending. This way, you can have a clearer picture of unnecessary expenses, and by cutting down on these, you can save money.

The advantage of this method is that you can make it as efficient or precise as you want.

How DB Work Helps with Accommodation, Utilities, and Transportation:

DB Work employees have accommodation provided along with their colleagues, and utilities are included. They also have transportation to and from work covered by a company vehicle. Additionally, they can use the company vehicle for personal purposes within a limit of 20 km per week, often with fellow employees.

These expenses are significantly lower compared to managing accommodation, utilities, and transportation on your own. Starting work immediately upon arrival means you'll be earning instead of spending time and money on finding accommodation. Another important benefit is the lack of stress in dealing with these aspects on your own.

Also, consider other shared expenses with your fellow accommodation mates, such as cleaning products, towels, detergent, and kitchen and bathroom essentials. You can create a shared list and split the costs with your roommates.

Buy Groceries from Supermarkets and Prepare Snacks at Home:

Daily groceries can add up to significant monthly costs if you don't shop wisely. Buying groceries from supermarkets is a cost-effective option. Here are some budget-friendly supermarket chains in the Netherlands:

  • Dirk
  • Jumbo
  • Aldi
  • Lidl

 

Shopping at these stores and becoming familiar with their prices can help you save money. You'll also quickly notice when they have special offers, which can further reduce your expenses.

 

Take Advantage of Offers and Occasional Discounts:

Even though the Netherlands is a modern and highly developed country, you can still find local markets with weekly offers and promotions.

In Amsterdam, IJ-Hallen is an open-air street market where you can find products at very low prices, including clothing, second-hand items, and it's a must-visit for bargain hunters. This market is open only one weekend per month, in Amsterdam Noord, at NDSM Werf.

In Rotterdam, an impressive destination in the city center, open since 2014, serves as a commercial space for those looking for local products, which is Markthal Rotterdam. Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and other food products can be found here, making Markthal an excellent place for weekly shopping.

Here is a list of other such markets and stores in other cities where DB Work employees are located:

  • The Hague, Herman Costerstraat - De Haagse Markt. A market where you can find absolutely everything, from food to antiques and even electronics.
  • Utrecht, at the corner of Breedstraat and Begijnhof - De Lapjesmarkt - The largest market for clothing materials and accessories.
  • Eindhoven, Strijp-S - FeelGood Market - A famous market with music, organic food, and other goods.

 

Minimize Transportation Costs:

As mentioned earlier, DB Work employees have transportation to work and back, as well as limited personal use of company vehicles. With efficient management, you won't have to worry about transportation expenses. If you enjoy outdoor activities or exploring, consider renting a bicycle, the most affordable mode of transportation in the Netherlands, or purchasing a public transportation pass.



With efficient management, you won't have to worry about transportation and associated costs. However, if you are someone who enjoys spending time outdoors or going for walks, you can rent a bicycle, which is the most affordable mode of transportation in the Netherlands, or you can purchase a public transportation pass.

Choose Free Activities and Events:

Throughout the year, the Netherlands hosts numerous free festivals, holidays, and public events related to national holidays and cultural traditions.



For example, King's Day celebrations on April 27th are a special occasion for the Dutch, and the entire country turns into a royal paradise with various free activities.

Other free events take place every year on June 26th when Amsterdam residents dedicate the entire day to music and do their best to recognize local talent through performances and street demonstrations.

Annually, an entire weekend in September is reserved for the Jordaan Festival, an event during which several select neighborhoods in Amsterdam transform into open-air party venues.

Don't forget that you can freely enjoy walks along Amsterdam's canals or in its numerous parks, admire the architecture, or visit some Dutch museums without paying anything.

Having a job in the Netherlands comes with even more benefits through a DB Work contract, including:

 

Learn more about the benefits offered by DB Work contracts! Send your updated CV to job@dbwork.com, and our recruiters will get back to you as soon as possible.