Sipping on savings: Tips for slashing your Starbucks bill this summer

For coffee lovers, Starbucks is often the go-to spot to fuel up and get their caffeine fix. However, frequenting this popular chain can add up quickly, leaving a significant dent in your wallet. With summer here, it’s time to find ways to cool down while also saving money on your daily coffee run. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to cut costs and still enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverages.

In this post, I’ll share some tips and tricks to help you slash your Starbucks bill while still enjoying your favorite drinks. From taking advantage of loyalty programs to making your own versions of Starbucks beverages at home, read on to discover how you can sip on savings this summer.

1. Why Starbucks?

With its cozy atmosphere, delicious coffee, and wide variety of menu options, Starbucks has become a beloved institution for many coffee lovers. However, with its popularity comes a hefty price tag. Regular Starbucks customers know that a single cup of coffee can easily cost $5 or more, and those daily visits can quickly add up over time. That’s why it’s important to find ways to cut costs while still enjoying your favorite Starbucks drinks.

Another reason why Starbucks is a popular choice is because of its convenience. With over 30,000 stores worldwide, there’s bound to be a Starbucks near you. Whether you’re on your way to work, running errands, or just need a quick pick-me-up, Starbucks is always there to provide you with a delicious caffeine fix. However, this convenience can also lead to overspending, as it’s easy to pop into a Starbucks on a whim and end up spending more than you intended. By following some simple tips and tricks, you can continue to enjoy your favorite Starbucks drinks without breaking the bank.

2. Understand the Starbucks Rewards program

If you’re a frequent Starbucks customer, then enrolling in the Starbucks Rewards program can be an excellent way to save on your coffee purchases. The Starbucks Rewards program is free to join, and it’s easy to sign up through their website or mobile app.

Once you join the program, you’ll earn stars for every purchase you make. You can then redeem those stars for free food and drinks, including coffee, tea, and pastries. The more stars you earn, the more rewards you unlock.

One of the best things about the Starbucks Rewards program is that you can earn bonus stars for participating in certain promotions or events. For example, you might earn extra stars for purchasing a specific drink, visiting the store during certain hours, or using the mobile app to place your order.

Another benefit of the program is that you can earn stars by using a Starbucks Rewards credit card. This card gives you extra stars for every dollar you spend at Starbucks, as well as bonus stars on your birthday and other special occasions.

By understanding the Starbucks Rewards program and taking advantage of its benefits, you can save a significant amount of money on your coffee purchases this summer.

3. Use the Starbucks app for savings

If you’re a regular at Starbucks, using the Starbucks app is a must-have for saving money. Not only does the app make it easy to pay for your purchases, but it also offers exclusive discounts and rewards that can add up over time.

With the app, you can earn stars for every purchase you make which can be redeemed for free food and drinks. You can also get personalized offers that are tailored to your purchasing habits and receive notifications for limited-time promotions. Another great feature of the app is the ability to order ahead, saving you time and allowing you to earn stars for your purchase.

Additionally, the Starbucks app offers a variety of payment options, including using a gift card or pre-loading funds to your account, which can help you better manage your budget and avoid overspending. Plus, you can track your purchases and see how much you’re spending on coffee each month, helping you stay accountable and make adjustments as needed.

Overall, using the Starbucks app can be a great way to save money and get rewarded for your loyalty. So, next time you’re in line for your favorite Starbucks drink, make sure to download the app and start sipping on those savings!

4. Bring your own cup to save money

One of the easiest and most effective ways to save money on your Starbucks drinks this summer is to bring your own cup. Starbucks offers a discount of 10 cents for customers who bring their own cups. This might not seem like a lot, but if you’re a daily Starbucks drinker, it can really add up over time.

Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be helping the environment by reducing waste from disposable cups. Starbucks even sells their own reusable cups that can be used over and over again.

Another tip is to invest in a larger cup. If you typically order a tall drink, consider upgrading to a grande or venti size. The cost difference between the sizes is often minimal, but you’ll get more drink for your money.

Lastly, don’t forget to take advantage of Starbucks’ rewards program. You can earn stars for every purchase you make, which can lead to free drinks and other rewards. Make sure to sign up and take advantage of the program to get the most out of your Starbucks visits.

5. Brew your coffee at home

One of the easiest ways to save money on coffee is to brew it at home. You can buy your favorite coffee beans or grounds and brew it to your liking. This not only saves you money but also allows you to experiment with different flavors and brewing methods.

Investing in a good quality coffee maker or French press can also go a long way. You can make a large pot of coffee in the morning and enjoy it throughout the day. Consider buying in bulk to save even more money on the cost of coffee beans or grounds.

Another option is to make cold brew coffee at home. This has gained popularity in recent years and is a great option for those hot summer days. Cold brew coffee is also less acidic than hot brewed coffee, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs.

If you still prefer the convenience of grabbing a coffee on the go, consider purchasing Starbucks’ VIA instant coffee packets. These are a great alternative to buying a full cup of coffee and can be made easily with just hot water. Plus, they come in a variety of flavors to satisfy any coffee lover’s taste buds.

Overall, brewing your coffee at home is a great way to enjoy your favorite caffeine fix while also saving money in the long run.

6. Make your own iced coffee and tea

One of the easiest ways to save money on your Starbucks bill this summer is to make your own iced coffee and tea at home. Not only is it cheaper, but you can also customize it to your liking.

Start by investing in some quality coffee or tea. You can buy coffee beans from your local grocery store or a specialty coffee shop. For tea, try loose leaf tea rather than tea bags for a richer flavor.

Brew your coffee or tea according to the directions and let it cool. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to make your iced coffee or tea, fill a glass with ice and pour in your coffee or tea. Add any sweeteners or milk you prefer, and you’re good to go.If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own flavored syrups. You can find recipes online for everything from vanilla to caramel to pumpkin spice syrups. Making your own syrups allows you to control the sweetness and flavor, and it’s a fun way to experiment with new flavors.

By making your own iced coffee and tea at home, you can save money and still enjoy your favorite summer beverages. Plus, you can feel good about reducing your environmental impact by using your own reusable cup and avoiding single-use plastic cups and straws.

7. Try the secret menu for cheaper options

Starbucks has an extensive menu, but did you know that there’s a secret menu? That’s right, there are items that aren’t listed on the regular menu, but you can still order them! This is a great option for those looking for cheaper alternatives to the regular menu items.

One such example is the “short” size, which is not listed on the regular menu but is available upon request. It’s essentially a smaller size than the “tall” size, which is the smallest size listed on the regular menu. Not only is this a cheaper option, but it’s also great for those who don’t want to consume as much caffeine or are watching their calorie intake.

Another option on the secret menu is the “chai tea latte misto,” which is a mix of chai tea and steamed milk. This is a cheaper alternative to the regular chai tea latte because it doesn’t include the expensive espresso shots.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try ordering a “red eye” or “black eye.” A red eye is a regular drip coffee with a shot of espresso, while a black eye is a drip coffee with two shots of espresso. These options are cheaper than ordering a latte or cappuccino with espresso shots.
So next time you’re at Starbucks, ask for the secret menu options and enjoy some cheaper alternatives while still getting your caffeine fix.

8. Look for discount codes and coupons

Looking for discount codes and coupons is a great way to save money on your Starbucks bill this summer. There are many websites that offer discount codes and coupons for Starbucks, so make sure to do your research before heading to your local store.

One great option is to sign up for the Starbucks Rewards program. This program offers exclusive discounts and offers to members, such as free drinks on your birthday and points that can be redeemed for free food and drinks.

Another option is to check social media for special promotions and deals. Starbucks often runs promotions on their social media pages, so make sure to follow them on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest discounts and deals.

You can also look for coupons in your local newspaper or on coupon websites like Coupons.com or RetailMeNot.com. These websites offer a variety of coupons that can be used in-store or online, so be sure to check them regularly for new deals.

By taking advantage of discount codes and coupons, you can enjoy your favorite Starbucks drinks and treats without breaking the bank this summer.

9. Cut back on extras

Cutting back on extras is one of the best ways to save money on your Starbucks bill this summer. While those flavored syrups, whipped cream, and extra shots may seem like small additions, they can add up quickly.

One way to cut back on extras is to order simpler drinks. Instead of a grande caramel macchiato with whipped cream and an extra shot, try a simple latte with just one pump of syrup. You’ll still get your caffeine fix, but without all the added sugar and calories.

Another way to cut back on extras is to bring your own cup. Starbucks gives customers a 10 cent discount for bringing their own reusable cups, and this can really add up over time. Plus, using a reusable cup is also better for the environment.

Finally, consider trying some of Starbucks’ lower-priced options. The coffee chain has a variety of options that are under $3, including drip coffee, iced coffee, and hot tea. These options are just as delicious as their more expensive counterparts and can help you save some serious cash this summer.

10. Final thoughts on saving money at Starbucks this summer

In conclusion, everyone enjoys the occasional Starbucks indulgence, but it can add up quickly. By following the tips provided in this article, you can still enjoy your favorite drink without breaking the bank.

Remember to consider alternative options such as making your own coffee at home or trying a new drink that is less expensive. Take advantage of rewards programs and special promotions to save even more money.

It’s also important to keep track of your spending, set a budget, and stick to it. Small changes in your coffee habits can go a long way in saving you money over time. And don’t forget to treat yourself occasionally, but try to keep it within your budget.

By implementing these tips, you can enjoy your summer sipping on savings while still enjoying your favorite Starbucks drinks.

I hope you enjoyed my tips on how to save money on your Starbucks bill this summer. With a little bit of creativity and some smart choices, you can still enjoy your favorite drinks without overspending. From using rewards programs to making your own versions of Starbucks drinks at home, I hope that these tips help you save some extra cash this season. Don’t forget to treat yourself once in a while, and maybe use that extra cash to try out some new frappuccinos!