For all the Starbucks lovers out there (including ourselves), we know how important a daily ‘bucks run can be to keeping our lives running smoothly! But we also know that daily Starbucks trips can be costly. Still, that doesn’t mean you need to give up this daily pleasure.
Business Insider recently gathered some smart tips from a former Starbucks barista on how to save money at Starbucks, and we added some clever hacks of our own below to create a super-list for you of ways to save the big ‘bucks, if you know what we mean!
These tips may seem like small things but they can make a big impact on your bottom line. Saving money on everyday expenses like coffee can make a big difference in your financial health over time. Small savings quickly accumulate, giving you the ability to pad your emergency fund, pay off debt, or could even help boost your investment portfolio.
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1. Split a Venti
If you’re with a friend, consider splitting a Venti drink. It’s cheaper than buying two Tall drinks and you can share the love. At our local Starbucks in NYC, a tall iced coffee (12 oz) costs $4.25, and a Venti (which is actually 24oz for cold drinks – double the size) is $4.75. Yes, that’s double the size for 50 cents more.
2. Try a Trenta
Another pro tip for the over-caffeinated: Starbucks also offers a Trenta size — a whopping 30 ounces — on certain drinks, including that iconic iced coffee. At our NYC store, a Trenta iced coffee costs $4.95… just 20 cents, or 4 percent, more than a Venti, for 25 percent more coffee!
3. Bring Your Own Cup
Did you know Starbucks gives you a 10-cent discount for bringing your own reusable cup, plus 25 bonus Stars for U.S. rewards members? It’s a small savings, but it adds up over time.
4. Avoid Bottled Water
Paying for bottled water? Whyyy? Ask for a cup of ice water, which is triple-filtered and free.
5. Opt for Regular Coffee with Syrup
Love the seasonal drinks? Ask for a regular coffee with a pump of seasonal syrup. It’s cheaper and still festive.
6. Maximize Starbucks Rewards
Join the Starbucks Rewards Program to earn points on purchases and get free drinks and food. Plus, score free refills on brewed coffee and tea while you’re there.
7. Say No to Pre-Packaged Snacks
Those protein boxes and snacks are convenient but expensive. Bring your own snacks or buy in bulk to save money.
8. Customize to Save
The Starbucks secret menu has had plenty of viral (and Instagrammable) options like “Pink Drink” (Strawberry Acai Refresher with coconut milk instead of water), “Butterbeer Frappuccino” (a caramel and toffee nut syrup blend), and the “Oreo Frappuccino” (a cookies and cream-inspired concoction). As fun as it is to whisper a secret menu order, consider customizing regular menu items to get the same (or very similar) drink. This often results in a cheaper drink that’s just as tasty.
9. Order a Grande in a Venti Cup
If you love iced drinks, ask for a Grande in a Venti cup with extra ice. You get more drink for less money, and it feels like a little upgrade without the extra cost.
10. Skip the Fancy Frappuccinos
Frappuccinos are tasty but pricey. Try a simple iced coffee with milk and syrup instead. You’ll get a similar taste without the extra cost.
11. Skip the Hot Breakfast Items
Hot breakfast items at Starbucks are convenient but can be pricey. Prepare your own breakfast at home to save money and maybe even eat healthier.
Final Sip
By making these small adjustments, you can save a significant amount of money over time. And remember, those savings can be redirected to your financial goals, whether it’s building an emergency fund, paying off debt, or investing for your future.
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At MoneyLion, we’re here to help you make the most of your money. For more money-saving hacks and financial tips, download the MoneyLion app today.
