If Starbucks is your weakness, you’re aware that $4 a day turns into a lot of money. But hey, sometimes you just need a little pick-me-up.
If that morning cup of coffee is a must, here are five ways to save yourself a little bit of money.
1. DIY It
Buying plain hot or iced coffee is cheaper than buying one that is flavored.
Starbucks has spices like vanilla, cinnamon and more at their self-serve bar, so you can make yourself something just as good, but at about half the price.
2. Bring Your Own Mug
You’ll save only a few cents every time you refill your own mug or thermos, but hey, a few cents here and there will add up over time.
3. Buy Starbucks At The Grocery Store
I know it’s not the same thing as going into a coffee shop everyday, but you can buy Starbucks brands at the grocery store and brew yourself at home.
It may cost a little over $8 a bag (so we’re not talking Folger’s prices here), but it will last you much longer than a couple bucks just for one cup. Here are Starbucks’ tips for brewing a great cup at home.
4. Don’t Buy Water Or Juice
You may be tempted to get a water or juice to go with your coffee, but when water is so often free, don’t spend a couple of dollars on a bottle.
Some Starbucks locations have free water stands, so fill up with a reusable bottle to rehydrate. It’s the simple things that will help you save.
5. Skip Out On The Snacks
Those chocolate covered nuts right by the register may look great, but they are pretty pricey for what you are getting. Forget the little snack-y foods and enjoy Starbucks for what it’s really good for— great drinks.
I get it, you need coffee in your life, but keeping your money is always a good thing, too, right? Right. Following these 5 steps will allow you to enjoy that Caramel Macchiato and save yourself some moola, too.
[h/t: Refinery 29]