Starbucks is my weakness. There are not many things that I splurge on, but Starbucks iced coffee is one of them. I love to make my own cold brew at home, but it is never quite as good as Starbucks iced coffee. Here are some tricks to saving money while enjoying a nice cup of coffee.
1.) Bring your own cup
If you bring in your own cup, such as the reusable ones sold at Starbucks, you will save .10 cents per cup. If you get coffee daily this will save $36.50 per year.
2.) Buy a venti/trenta and split
Having coffee with a friend? Buy a venti or trenta size and split into a tall cup. Many stores are strict about not giving you a tall cup when you order a venti (for this purpose) so bring your own reusable cup!
3.) Ask for light ice
When you buy an iced beverage, you are really paying for half ice and half beverage. Ask for light ice (or ice on the side) to get more of the actual drink.
4.) Ask for a size up (for room)
If you are one who likes cream in your coffee, then order a tall size coffee in a grande cup. For instance, “Can I have a tall coffee in a grande cup so I have room for cream?”. This way you are not sacrificing coffee to be able to add cream.
5.) Order espresso-then add extra
Do you want a cheaper latte? Order 2-3 espresso shots (hot or iced) and then add in your own milk at the condiment section.
6.) Ordering iced tea? Ask for no water.
Starbucks makes their iced teas concentrated to be strong. They will add water to dilute the concentration, so next time you would like a stronger cup of tea order without water.
7.) Join Starbucks rewards
Starbucks has a rewards program that you can use with a Starbucks card or download the Starbucks app to your phone. For every dollar spent, you will earn 2 stars. Once you receive 120 stars you will get a free beverage or sandwich. You also will receive a free beverage on your birthday for joining their rewards program. You can sign up here.
8.) Order a grande
Venti drinks (except regular coffee) has the same amount of caffeine as a grande size. For a venti, you are paying more for the ice, milk or cream.
9.) Promotions
Starbucks will occasionally run promotions for buy one get one free or buy one get one half off beverages.
10.) Free in-store refills!
If you are a Starbucks rewards member you can get free refills on coffee and teas while you are in the store. This only applies if you are dining in the store. If I have time, I will order an iced coffee and sit in the store while I work or read and then get my refill and head home. Two iced coffees for the price of one!
