Best Bulk Beer Buys: Cheap And Cheerful

If you're looking to buy cheap beer in bulk, there are several options available to you. Sam's Club, for instance, offers a wide selection of beers at affordable prices, including domestic, imported, and craft beers. Costco is another popular choice, with a good selection and quality comparable to that of other weddings. Additionally, depending on your state, you may be able to purchase alcohol from Costco without a membership. For those planning a wedding, Total Wine offers assistance with wine and liquor selection and can help you figure out the required quantities. They also accept returns of unopened bottles without any hassle. Other options to consider include BJ's, Trader Joe's, and local liquor stores, which often allow returns of unopened bottles and may offer discounts on bulk purchases.

Sam's Club

One advantage of shopping at Sam's Club is the convenience of purchasing everything you need for your gathering in one place. They offer not only beer but also snacks, paper plates, plastic utensils, napkins, and other party essentials. You can easily order everything online and opt for delivery or Club Pickup, saving you time and hassle.

When it comes to storage, Sam's Club has you covered with their selection of wine and beer coolers, which offer precise temperature control. If you don't have space for a dedicated cooler, they also provide guidance on how to protect your beverages from heat and light, such as storing them in a basement or dark cabinet.

It's important to note that while membership is not required to purchase alcohol at Sam's Club, availability may vary by club, and members must be at least 21 years old to purchase. So, whether you're planning a summer barbecue or a cosy winter get-together, Sam's Club has you covered with their extensive selection of beers at great prices.

Costco

The availability of alcohol at Costco can vary by location and date, and it appears that the company intentionally makes it difficult to find out what alcohol products they sell online. However, Costco typically offers a variety of beers, including a 24-pack variety pack that includes a Session IPA, Kölsch German-Style Ale, Pale Ale, and India Pale Ale.

In terms of purchasing alcohol at Costco without a membership, the policies may vary depending on the state. At a minimum, the following states have laws in place that require shopping membership clubs to sell alcohol to the general public without a membership: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas, and Vermont.

It's important to note that alcohol is a luxury item, and one should avoid it if they have a negative or tiny personal savings rate, high-interest debt, or any sort of drinking problem.

Trader Joe's

If you're looking for a beer that's easy to drink and has a slight hint of banana, try the Josephsbrau Heller Bock, priced at $1.17 with an ABV of 7%. Or, if you're after something with more carbonation and malt character, the Josephsbrau Bohemian for $1.17 (ABV: 5%) is a good option.

For something a little stronger, the Boatswain Double IPA is an extremely flavorful beer with an ABV of 8.4% and priced at $2.49. It has a bitter finish and a touch of sweetness, making it a great choice if you want something intense and flavorful.

If you're looking for a classic oatmeal stout, the Stockyard Oatmeal Stout is a good choice. It has chocolaty undertones and, at 5.2% ABV, it's perfect for a session.

For a summer party, the Corona Light dupe from Trader Joe's is a good option. It's a light and refreshing beer that's perfect for stocking up on and serving with a spritz of lime.

So, whether you're looking for something light and refreshing or intense and flavorful, Trader Joe's has a great selection of cheap beers to choose from.

BJ's

If you're looking for a place to buy cheap beer in bulk, BJs Wholesale Club is a great option. BJs offers a wide range of beer options, including domestic beers such as Bud, Bud Light, Miller Lite, Yuengling, and Sam Adams, among others. You can typically find these beers in 24-packs, which tend to be around $5 cheaper than buying two 12-packs at a non-club store.

While BJs doesn't seem to have its own house brand of beer, it does offer a variety of well-known and popular options. The selection may vary depending on your location, but you can generally expect to find mostly domestic beers, with a few imports like Corona or Guinness. In addition, some BJs locations have a separate liquor store attached to the main store, providing even more options for those looking to buy alcohol in bulk.

One advantage of shopping at BJs is that you may not need a membership to purchase beer. In most states, it is a legal requirement for clubs to offer the sale of alcohol to everyone, regardless of membership status. So, if you're unsure about committing to a membership, you can simply walk in and browse the beer selection without needing to show your card at the door. However, keep in mind that you will likely need a membership to make a purchase at checkout.

Additionally, BJs often offers promotions and deals that can further lower the cost of buying beer in bulk. For example, they may provide free trial cards or guest passes, allowing you to test out the club before committing to a membership. Overall, BJs Wholesale Club is a great option for those looking to buy cheap beer in bulk, offering a convenient and cost-effective shopping experience.

Local liquor stores

When it comes to buying cheap beer in bulk, local liquor stores can be a great option. Here are some tips and suggestions for making the most of your local liquor store options:

Shop Around and Compare Prices

It's worth visiting multiple local liquor stores in your area to compare their prices and selection. You may find that certain stores offer better deals on beer, especially when purchasing in bulk. Ask about bulk discounts, as some stores may offer a percentage off for large purchases.

Look for Stores with Variety

While some liquor stores may have limited options, others can offer a wide variety of beer brands and types. If you're looking for a specific type of beer or want to provide a diverse selection for your guests, finding a store with a good variety is key.

Inquire About Return Policies

It's always a good idea to ask about the store's return policy for unopened bottles or cases. This is especially important when buying in bulk, as you may end up with more beer than you need. Look for stores that allow returns or offer buy-back options for leftover alcohol.

Build a Relationship with the Store

If you plan to purchase beer regularly or in large quantities, consider building a relationship with the store owners or managers. They may be more inclined to offer you deals or discounts if you become a loyal customer. You can also inquire about special orders or case pricing.

Check for Special Promotions and Sales

Keep an eye out for promotions, sales, or discounts that the liquor store may be offering. These opportunities can help you save money, especially when buying in bulk. Some stores may have regular sales or specials that you can take advantage of.

Local Liquor Store Recommendations

Based on online recommendations, here are a few specific local liquor stores that you may want to consider:

• Total Wine: They offer a wide selection of beer, wine, and liquor, and are known for their helpful staff. They also accept returns of unopened bottles.
• ACE Liquors: In addition to beer and liquor, they provide delivery and pickup services, and they refund unopened bottles.
• BevMo: They offer free delivery for purchases over a certain amount and allow returns of some unopened liquor.
• Costco: While it's a membership club, you can purchase alcohol from Costco without a membership in certain states. They offer a good selection and competitive prices.
• Sam's Club: Similar to Costco, Sam's Club offers a range of beer, wine, and liquor at affordable prices. You don't need a membership to purchase alcohol.

Remember to call ahead and inquire about their bulk purchasing options, return policies, and any ongoing promotions they may have. By taking advantage of your local liquor stores, you can stock up on cheap beer for your upcoming event or personal enjoyment.

Frequently asked questions