Cheapest Beer: Where To Buy And Save

Whether you're stocking up for a party or just looking for a good deal, finding cheap beer can be a challenge. Luckily, several retailers and websites can help you get your favourite drink without breaking the bank. Here are some places to consider:

- Discount stores: Walmart, Target, and Costco often have special deals and sales on beer, especially during holidays and events. You can also buy beer in bulk at discounted prices from warehouse clubs like Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale Club.

- Grocery stores: Keep an eye out for sales and coupons at grocery stores like Kroger and Safeway, which often offer competitive prices on beer. Some stores also provide discounts when you buy multiple packs.

- Liquor stores: While prices may vary, liquor stores like BevMo and Total Wine & More typically offer a wider selection of specialty and craft beers. They may also provide bulk purchase discounts or loyalty programs.

- Online retailers: Websites like Drizly, Beer Advocate, and Amazon can be great for finding deals and promotions, and they offer the convenience of home delivery. Don't forget to factor in any shipping or delivery fees.

- Apps: DrinkOwl, a free app, helps you locate drink specials near you in North America. Untapped is another app that combines price searching with communication features, allowing venues to share their specials and menus with customers.

Buying in bulk from wholesale clubs

If you're looking to buy beer in bulk, wholesale clubs like Costco and Sam's Club are a great option. These clubs offer a wide variety of beer options, including domestic, imported, and craft beers, as well as seasonal beers and ciders.

When buying in bulk, it's important to consider the best storage options to keep your beer fresh. Wholesale clubs often provide guidance on optimal storage conditions, recommending that beer be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a basement or kitchen cabinet, and protected from heat and light. Additionally, they may offer wine and beer coolers that provide convenient storage and precise temperature regulation.

One advantage of purchasing from wholesale clubs is the ability to stock up on snacks, cups, mixers, and other party essentials alongside your beer. This saves you time and money, as you can find everything you need in one place.

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from two popular wholesale clubs:

Costco

Costco offers excellent deals on beer, with prices that are hard to beat. For example, you can find 36-packs of Tecate and Coors Light for $22.49, which equates to around 62 cents per beer. They also have a 24-pack of PBR available for $13.99, making each beer approximately 58 cents. If you're looking for something with more flavour, they offer a 24-pack of Lagunitas IPA for $24.99, or Racer 5 IPA for $25.99.

Sam's Club

At Sam's Club, you'll find a range of domestic beers, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller Genuine Draft. They also carry imported and craft beers, such as Amsel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Pilsner Urquell. Seasonal beers and ciders are also available, providing options for those who enjoy a summery citrus brew or a hearty winter ale.

Whether you're stocking up for a party or simply want to ensure you always have your favourite brew on hand, buying in bulk from wholesale clubs can be a cost-effective and convenient option.

Discount stores like Walmart, Target and Costco

Discount stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco are great places to buy beer at low prices.

Walmart

Walmart is known for its low prices on beer and carries a wide range of brands, from well-known names like Amstel, Budweiser, and Corona to cheaper options. For example, you can find Natural Ice, with 5.9% alcohol content, for $2.97 for a four-pack of 16-ounce cans. Another affordable option is Milwaukee's Best, which has placed third in a taste test of cheap beers. Walmart also offers a four-pack of 16-ounce cans of Steel Reserve, an 8.1% alcohol beer, for $2.97.

Target

Target offers a variety of beer options, including popular brands such as Miller Lite and Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. While specific prices are not listed, Target often has deals and promotions that can help you save on your beer purchases.

Costco

While Costco's website does not list specific beer brands or prices, they are known for offering a wide selection of beverages at competitive prices. It is worth checking your local Costco warehouse to see what beer options they have available.

When shopping for beer at discount stores, it's important to note that alcohol sales laws vary by state, so the availability of beer may differ depending on your location. Additionally, prices and selection may vary between stores.

Online retailers like Drizly, Beerwulf and Beer Cartel

Online retailers like Drizly, Beerwulf, and Beer Cartel offer a convenient way to purchase beer and discover new brews. While Drizly is no longer in service, its friends at Uber Eats can handle your alcohol delivery needs. Beerwulf, on the other hand, presents an enticing world of beer deals and discounts.

Beerwulf caters to beer enthusiasts seeking unbeatable deals and a superior at-home drinking experience. The website offers a wide selection of discounted beer kegs, starter packs, and accessories. Beer lovers can choose between the 8L BLADE beer kegs, which require a BLADE beer machine, or the more flexible 5L kegs, which can be used with the BeerTender machine or enjoyed straight from the keg. Beerwulf's deals include well-known lager, IPA, and wheat beer brands, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Additionally, Beerwulf provides discounted starter packs ideal for those new to the world of premium beer. These bundles include a home draught machine (either BLADE or BeerTender) and a keg to get you started. For those already equipped, Beerwulf also offers deals on individual kegs, with free delivery on full boxes.

Beer Cartel, Australia's #1 online craft beer store, boasts an extensive range of craft beers, with over 1,000 options and new arrivals each week. They offer a Beer Advent Calendar, which is perfect for those who want a variety of beers to count down to the holidays. With their large selection and subscription management, Beer Cartel ensures that beer lovers in Australia can explore and enjoy a diverse range of craft beers.

Local grocery stores during sales

If you're looking for the cheapest beer, local grocery stores during sales are a great option. Here's why:

Sales and Discounts

Many grocery stores offer beer at competitive prices, especially during sales events. Keep an eye out for holiday deals and special promotions, like Super Bowl or Fourth of July discounts. These sales can significantly reduce the cost of your favourite brew.

Coupons and Flyers

Grocery stores often provide coupons and discounts in their weekly ads and flyers. Keep an eye out for these, as they can further reduce the cost of your beer. Some stores also offer loyalty programs or email newsletters with exclusive deals.

Multi-Pack Discounts

Some grocery stores offer discounts when you buy multiple packs of beer at once. This can be a great way to stock up and save money in the long run. Check with your local store to see if they offer such discounts.

Competitive Pricing

Grocery stores often aim to offer competitive prices on beer, especially when compared to liquor and specialty stores. While liquor stores may have a wider selection of craft and specialty beers, grocery stores can be a more affordable option for your everyday beer needs.

Convenience

Grocery stores are typically conveniently located, making it easy to grab a pack of beer while doing your regular shopping. This saves you time and the hassle of making a separate trip to a liquor or specialty store.

State Laws

It's worth noting that, in some US states, the sale of beer in grocery stores is prohibited or restricted. For example, Maryland previously had a ban on beer and wine purchases in grocery stores, but this may change in the future. Check your local laws to ensure you can legally purchase beer at your local grocery store.

In summary, local grocery stores during sales can be a great option for finding cheap beer. Keep an eye out for sales, use coupons, and take advantage of multi-pack discounts to get the best deals. Remember to also consider the convenience and competitive pricing that grocery stores offer. Just ensure that your state laws permit beer sales in grocery stores.

Liquor stores for specialty beers

When it comes to specialty beers, there are a few liquor stores that stand out for their selection and service.

Argonaut Wine & Liquor

Argonaut Wine & Liquor has been Denver's leading liquor, wine, and beer store for over 50 years. They offer a vast selection of alcohol, including fast and easy alcohol delivery in Denver. The store is located at 760 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80203, and provides both instore and curbside pickup options.

Sprayberry Bottle Shop

Sprayberry Bottle Shop is Marietta's premier liquor, craft beer, and fine wine store, offering a wide range of craft beers, fine wines, and spirits. They have been a trusted name in Marietta since 1977 and are known for their vast selection, including over 1,000 liquors and 800 craft beers. Sprayberry Bottle Shop is family-owned and operated and is located at 770-973-7073.

Uptown Spirits

Uptown Spirits is a premium online liquor store that offers a wide selection of spirits, including limited-edition whiskies and popular vodkas. They provide flat-rate shipping on all orders over $299, making it convenient and affordable to elevate your home bar.

These liquor stores are known for their specialty beer offerings, and customers can expect to find a diverse range of options, from local crafts to global favorites. Whether you're a connoisseur or a novice, these stores are sure to provide a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.

Frequently asked questions