u/IntergalacticShrek

Anybody still zynning?

Its been a couple years since the last zynning post on this subreddit so wanted to know if anyones still rocking upper deckies

I'm from a low socioeconomic background and I'm starting F1 in August where I need to move to a new M/HCOL area where rent itself will take out around 40% of my monthly wage (including hospital accommodation options). Additionally, I got given tough rotations for F1 like general surgery and acute med so I have nights and on-calls, so I'd prefer not to commute much to a cheap accommodation far away from the city after a tiring shift. Then once income tax, NI, pensions and groceries, insurance, phone bills and such are paid I won't have much money left for fun/hobbies and savings.

I think building as much savings as possible during Foundation is important given the high possibility of unemployment after F2- especially after the government removed 1000 training posts because of continued doctors strikes.

I don't have a car right now, but I'm looking to get one with my savings from my medical school part-time job prior to starting F1. I am thinking to buy a small inconspicuous caravan or a biggish car like an estate (e.g. a used Audi A4 Avant) where I can fold down the back seats and put a camping mattress in so I can sleep in it after work. I'll need to get the staff parking permit regardless, so why not just park in the furthest corner away of the staff car park and live there without needing to pay rent, utilities or council tax.

I plan on getting a monthly gym membership and after work do quick workouts, then use the gym showers and toilets before leaving and go sleep overnight in my car. For food, I'm planning to make friends with my F1 colleagues who can give me access to their accommodation's kitchen like once a week so I can maybe meal prep stuff and store in the staff fridges in the hospital/doctor's mess, or just live off TooGoodToGo/Tesco meal deals/microwavable meals that I can heat up in the doctor's mess even when I don't have a work day.

I estimate all of this will be significantly cheaper than paying £1k a month for 'proper' accommodation including council tax, utilities and rent, so I can save most of my monthly salary to help me see through F1, F2 and the potential post-F2 unemployment year until I can get a NTN. I understand it won't be the best QoL, but money is important.

Has anyone done this before or knows how anyone who has? I welcome any genuine tips/advice to help me with this like any specific recommendations for camping mattresses or certain cars that are easier to sleep in.