Where To Buy Beer On A Budget

Beer is one of the most popular drinks in the world, but it can be costly, especially if you're looking for premium options. Fortunately, there are various ways to find cheap beer.

According to a city living index published by international shipping company Pack & Send, the cheapest cities for beer can be found in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe. Two cities in Vietnam made it into the top spots, with Ho Chi Minh City offering an average beer price of £0.75.

In terms of countries, Nigeria offers the cheapest pint in the world, at just £0.25. Other affordable nations include Vietnam, Uganda, Tanzania and Ghana.

If you're looking for the cheapest places to buy beer online, Pintprice.com allows users to search for the lowest beer prices worldwide, while DrinkOwl lists over 53,000 drink specials across North America. Amazon is also a favourite for bargain hunters, with its large warehouses and partnerships with leading breweries.

For those looking to buy beer in bulk, Costco is a good option, while Trader Joe's has an affordable range of beers to satisfy most budgets. Walmart is also a winner when it comes to cheap beer, whether you're after Amstel, Budweiser or Corona.

So, whether you're stocking up for a party or simply enjoying a post-work drink, there are plenty of options to get your hands on a cheap beer.

Buying in bulk from wholesale retailers like Costco

If you're a beer lover, or you're looking to host a large event, buying beer in bulk from wholesale retailers like Costco is a great way to save money. Costco is a commercial leader in the wholesale and warehouse retail space, and offers customers the opportunity to purchase beer in bulk at cost price. While this may not be ideal if you're only an occasional drinker, it's a fantastic option if you're a beer enthusiast or need to stock up for a big party.

Costco's beer selection may be somewhat limited, but what they do offer is extremely affordable. Cases of beer typically start at around $16, and you can expect to pay around $24 for premium options. They even have their own store brand of ales and lagers, which are known to be pretty decent.

For example, the Costco in Burlington, Ontario, sells 60-packs of Coors Light for $84.99, which works out to $1.41 per beer before tax. The same case of beer at The Beer Store, Ontario's other option for buying beer in bulk, costs $93.99. That's a significant savings, especially if you're buying multiple cases.

In addition to Costco, other wholesale retailers like Sam's Club or BJ's Wholesale Club may also offer similar deals on beer. These stores often have a large selection of beer, including craft beers and imports, at discounted prices.

When buying in bulk from wholesale retailers, it's important to consider the per-unit price to ensure you're getting the best deal. Additionally, keep an eye out for sales and promotions, as these stores often have special offers that can further reduce the cost of your beer.

Lastly, don't forget to take into account any membership fees or delivery charges that may be associated with shopping at these wholesale retailers. By factoring in all these elements, you can maximize your savings and enjoy your favourite brew without breaking the bank.

Using price comparison websites like Pintprice.com

Pintprice.com also offers a host of other useful information, such as beer price statistics and comparisons. This can help users make informed decisions about where to buy their beer and how much they can expect to pay.

Another great option for finding cheap beer is to use a free app like DrinkOwl, available on Android and Apple devices. DrinkOwl lists drink specials in approximately 75 cities across North America (USA and Canada) and uses your GPS location to find the nearest drink specials, allowing you to easily find the best beer deals near you.

For those looking for a more traditional retail option, stores like Costco, Trader Joe's, and Walmart are known for offering affordable beer prices. Costco, in particular, is ideal for those looking to buy beer in bulk, while Trader Joe's offers a range of beers at price points directed at middle-class consumers.

Using apps like DrinkOwl to find local deals

If you're looking for a cheap place to buy beer, there are several apps that can help you find local deals. One such app is DrinkOwl, a free mobile application that helps you discover drink specials, happy hours, and coupons in your city. The app is available on iPhone, iPod Touch, Android, and BlackBerry devices.

DrinkOwl uses your GPS location to find and present drink specials and retail outlets near you. At the time of writing, the app lists over 50,000 drink specials and coupons in more than 75 cities across North America (USA and Canada). The deals can be easily compared, as the specials are colour-coded by type (beer, wine, mix, etc.). For example, you can access lists of great deals like "$1 sake" or "$2 beers".

The app is also useful if you want to bring the party home, as it has a liquor store locator. So, if you're looking to save some money on your next drink purchase, be sure to check out DrinkOwl or similar apps like Pintprice.com and Untapped.

Shopping at discount stores like Walmart

One of the advantages of shopping at Walmart is the ability to buy beer in bulk, which can result in significant savings over time. Additionally, Walmart's large footprint and international partnerships allow them to offer a wide range of domestic and international beers, catering to various preferences and tastes.

However, it's important to note that the availability of beer at Walmart may vary depending on your location and local regulations. For instance, beer sales in grocery stores are not permitted in some states, such as Delaware and Wyoming. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check your local laws and regulations before heading out to shop for beer.

In addition to Walmart, other discount stores like Target and Costco can also be great options for finding cheap beer. These stores often have similar deals and promotions, especially during popular shopping seasons. Warehouse clubs, such as Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale Club, are also worth considering if you're willing to pay for a membership, as they offer discounted prices on bulk purchases.

When it comes to saving money on beer, it's beneficial to shop around and compare prices at different retailers. Additionally, keep an eye out for coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs that can further reduce the cost of your beer purchases. By combining strategic shopping with the deals offered by discount stores like Walmart, you can maximize your savings and enjoy your favorite beverage without breaking the bank.

Buying from local breweries

While buying beer from local breweries may not always be the cheapest option, it can be a great way to support local businesses and discover new beers. Here are some tips and advantages of buying beer directly from local breweries:

• Freshness and Quality: Local breweries often sell their beers directly to customers, ensuring you get the freshest product possible. The beer hasn't travelled far or sat on shelves for extended periods, so you can enjoy it at its best.
• Variety and Selection: Many local breweries offer a wide range of beers, from flagship favourites to seasonal specials and limited releases. This variety means you can explore different styles, flavours, and small-batch experiments not found elsewhere.
• Knowledge and Community: Buying directly from a local brewery gives you the opportunity to chat with the brewers and staff, who are often passionate and knowledgeable about their products. They can guide you towards new discoveries, explain the brewing process, and provide insights into the local beer scene. This personal connection fosters a sense of community and enhances your overall drinking experience.
• Supporting Local Businesses: When you buy from a local brewery, more of your money stays within your community. You are directly supporting local entrepreneurs, job creation, and the growth of the craft beer industry in your area. This support can lead to a vibrant local beer culture, with unique offerings that reflect the character of your region.
• Special Offers and Discounts: Local breweries often have loyalty programs, special promotions, or discounts for buying in bulk. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially if you plan to purchase larger quantities for events or personal consumption. Sometimes, breweries may offer discounts on older inventory to make way for new releases.
• Sustainability and Environmental Impact: By buying local, you can reduce the carbon footprint associated with beer transportation. Additionally, local breweries may use sustainable practices, such as recycling or reusing bottles, which further reduces their environmental impact.
• Events and Experiences: Local breweries often host events, such as tap takeovers, beer releases, and special tastings. These events provide opportunities to try new beers, meet the brewers, and connect with other beer enthusiasts in your community. Some breweries may also offer tours, allowing you to see the brewing process up close and personal.
• Customisation and Flexibility: Some local breweries allow you to create custom six-packs or mix-and-match cases, giving you the freedom to explore different styles without committing to a full case of a single beer. This flexibility is ideal for those who enjoy variety and want to support local brewers.

While buying from local breweries may not always offer the absolute lowest prices, the benefits extend beyond cost savings. The experience, variety, and connection to your community can make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you're passionate about craft beer and supporting local businesses.

Frequently asked questions