Money And Investing  -

Frugally Drinking

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-------- Because Frugal People Drink Too

(Puny Money is hosting this week's Festival of Frugality this that inspired this article)

I have been amazed at such discussion from other financial bloggers. To tell the truth, it is a valid concern, in my opinion. A perfectly balanced budget can go overboard with a single night out – big time! Yet, adult frugaleers may enjoy a night out in town.

”One thing that drives me nuts is that there never seem to be any prices listed for alcoholic beverages-- are we supposed to just order and not care how much we're paying? -- Money and Values

The fact that you want to drink at a bar or restaurant doesn’t mean you have to drink what or like everyone else. You can always choose a soda – I think we are all grown up and we will not tease each other for not drinking an alcoholic drink, and if people tease we are all mature to take it as a joke. Even if you feel inclined to relaxing a bit with some booze, it doesn’t have to be the same kind. I purposely ask for slow drinking beverages that will not go bad if they warm up a bit: wine, Oporto, or some mixed drinks. Avoid light beers or shots, the former can be drank almost like water and the later usually go in one or to gulps. You can enjoy a night out with friends without having to drink too much.

I have the suspicion people don’t enjoy it that much
I do enjoy some alcoholic drinks very much. I am a fan of Rioja region wines. I love Oporto. I can have a Guinness, and I can enjoy a few mixed drinks. I do hate most of the distilled spirits on their pure form, and I do hate poorly done beers like Miller Light and Budweiser.

What surprises me is how many people have told me they are drinking just because everyone is drinking and accept me the fact that they dislike the beverage they are drinking. In my opinion, if you will not enjoy it more than a soda, order a soda! I am also surprised as to how many people tell me that they drink just to get drunk -- a bit of relaxation is understandable, but if you "need to get drunk", you may need to find out if there is an issue you have to address.

Paying $50 to Get Wasted Is a Waste of Money
First of all, let me tell you that I do not know how someone in their sane mind would drink 5 or more drinks at a bar. However, I see it all the time – I work in sales, and that is one of the favorite things salespeople do. Drink a bit, but don’t drink too much. You will not only save money, but you will not do things you can feel bad about later.

What about buying rounds? I hate this custom. I simply do not participate on it. If I order a drink I either pay for it, or offer to pay my portion of the tab. I usually pay considerably more than what I consumed, but I do not go for the round thing.

The issue with rounds is that it is not fair for people who consume less than the rest. If you pay for the first round and only drink on one round, you end up paying more than you needed to. And if you wait a couple of rounds without paying then you feel compelled to drink another one just to pay for at least one round: no way of winning it.

For the shy that doesn’t want to go against the round idea… Just step to the bar and ask for your drink and pay it there, before someone asks the dreaded question: “what are you drinking?”.

Keep your home bar stocked There is an ambiance that can’t be replaced at home. People are not as likely to dance or meet new people in closed quarters. However, if the objective of the gathering is to have a good drinking time, invite people home. You will most likely spend less and still have a good time. Also, it gives the opportunity to drink what you really wanted, not the cheap stuff at the bar sold at gold-water prices.