20 ways to curb spending when you’re at the pub

The days when you’d get change from a fiver for a pint are pretty much over. 

Today, with the cost of living where it is, prices at the bar can make you do a double take. The average pint in the UK now sits at around £5.20, and in London, it’s closer to £6. At big events, you might even be staring down a £10 pint.

And it’s been creeping up for decades. Data from the Office for National Statistics, shows in the late ’80s, a pint was under £1. By 2000 it hit £2. By 2025, it was pushing £4.83.

Now, some experts reckon £7 - £9 pints could become the norm in pricier areas.

While there’s not much you can do about the price, you can control how much you spend.

Here are 20 simple ways to keep more cash in your pocket at the pub, while still enjoying yourself.

Smart pub-saving tips

1. Skip the rounds
   Buying rounds adds pressure, and you can often end up spending more just to keep up. Stick to buying your own.
2. Set a cash limit
   Take out what you’re happy to spend. When it’s gone, it’s home time!
3. Pick cheaper drinks
   Go for house beers, ciders, or spirits instead of premium brands or cocktails.
4. Try alcohol-free options
   You don’t have to drink alcohol, sparkling water or soft drinks can save you a lot money, not to mention the headache the next day.
5. Go lower strength
   Lower-ABV drinks are often cheaper, and you’ll pace yourself better too.
6. Alternate with water
   Have one drink, followed by a water. You’ll slow down, spend less, and feel better the next day.
7. Eat before you go
   Pub food is tempting, but pricey. Make sure you have plenty to eat beforehand so you’re not caught out.
8. Hunt for happy hour
   You’d be surprised how much you can save just by timing it right.
9. Walk or use public transport
   Taxis can cost more than your drinks. If you can, walk or hop on a bus.
10. Set a ‘fun money’ budget
    Having a little pot just for socialising helps you spend guilt-free, without overdoing it.
11. Track your spending
    Keep a rough idea of what you’re spending as you go, as it adds up quickly.
12. Avoid top-shelf temptations
    You don’t need the fanciest gin on the shelf every time.
13. Stick to pints or singles
    Doubles and cocktails can sneakily double your spend too.
14. Don’t feel pressured to keep up
    Just because your mates are on another round doesn’t mean you have to be.
15. Choose your pub wisely
    Prices vary a lot. One street away and you could save you a few quid per drink.
16. Look out for loyalty deals or apps
    Some pubs offer discounts or rewards, so you might as well take advantage.
17. Limit how long you stay
    Fewer hours equals fewer drinks and less spent behind the bar.  
18. Plan your night
    Decide in advance how much you’re happy to spend and stick to it.
19. Avoid drinking if you’re feeling especially emotional
20. Know when to call it a night
    The last round can often be the one you didn’t need anyway.

You don’t necessarily have to give up the pub altogether, but a few small changes can make a big difference.

A simple monthly budget can also help you balance nights out with everything else you’ve got going on. When you know what you can afford, you can relax and enjoy yourself, without worrying about your bank balance the

Check out our guide to how to create a budget to get started, and give our budget planner a try - it’s free and easy to use.