Enjoying a night out should not mean draining your bank account. With a few smart strategies and the right tools, you can make the most of your bar nights while saving real money. From drink specials to cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, Ibotta, and Upside, you can keep your wallet as happy as your social life.

Here are the best ways to drink smarter — not less.

1. Preload Your Wallet with Fluz Gift Cards
   Before heading out, check if your favorite bar or restaurant is on Fluz. You can earn cashback at your favorite bars with Fluz by buying a digital gift card for the exact amount you plan to spend. Major chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Applebee’s, Dave & Buster’s, Red Robin, and Chili’s all qualify for instant rewards. No coupons, no hassle — just savings added back to your account.
2. Time Your Arrival for Happy Hour
   Most bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour — usually between 4 PM and 7 PM. Arriving early can cut your bill nearly in half. Many cities have guides like The Infatuation or Eater listing top happy hour spots, so plan ahead and make the most of those deals.
3. Stack with Rakuten Dining Offers
   Rakuten is not just for online shopping anymore. Their dining program offers additional cashback at select bars and restaurants when you link a credit card and dine at partner locations. Stack this with Fluz and loyalty points for a serious triple dip in savings.
4. Activate Bar Rebates on Ibotta
   Ibotta sometimes offers rebates on cocktails, beers, appetizers, or entire restaurant tabs. Check the app before you go out — you may find bonuses on your favorite drink or even cash rewards for visiting certain spots.
5. Use Upside to Save on Nearby Restaurants and Bars
   If you are flexible with your plans, Upside helps you find nearby restaurants and bars offering cashback incentives. Open the app before choosing where to go, and you might score an extra 10-20% back just by switching venues.
6. Split Pitchers and Platters with Friends
   Buying individual drinks racks up the costs fast. Split pitchers of beer or share cocktail carafes to save per ounce. Similarly, order shareable plates instead of individual entrees. You will spend less and still enjoy plenty of food and drinks.
7. Skip Premiums, Stick to Specials
   Top-shelf liquor sounds tempting but adds up quickly. Many bars offer excellent house wines, well drinks, and beer specials at a fraction of the cost of craft cocktails. Stick to these during your first round to pace both your night and your spending.

Why Smarter Spending Matters

• Cashback from Fluz, Rakuten, Ibotta, and Upside means your nights out keep paying you back.

• Planning ahead saves you hundreds over the year without sacrificing fun.

• You can discover new happy hours and local gems while maximizing your budget.

• Every round, appetizer, and night out becomes an opportunity for smarter, more rewarding spending.

Work hard, play harder — and spend smarter with these simple bar savings strategies.