If you're a fan of the sweet coffee drinks and desserts at Starbucks Coffee stores, you know how those little indulgences can add up in price. With their specialty coffee drinks costing in the $3.00 to $4.00 range, you can really rack up a monthly bill. If you drink Starbucks specialty coffee drinks on a daily basis, you'll spend enough to finance a nice vacation at the end of the year. If you still want to indulge in Starbucks coffee but want to save some money, try some of these tips:
Discover the value of a short sized coffee drink
The short sized cup isn't listed on the menu, but it's less expensive than the grande and will probably be enough to satisfy you if you just want a taste. You can get cappuccinos and lattes in the short size by asking for them as a special order. Avoid the overpriced Frappuccinos
The Frappuccinos at Starbucks are probably the most overpriced drinks of all. Frappuccinos basically consist of an inexpensive base mixed with ice and a pump of flavored syrup. For this concoction, Starbucks charges around $4.00. If you want a less expensive cold drink that still has lots of flavor, order an iced latte and ask for extra flavor syrup to make it a bit more decadent. You can ask for extra flavor syrup free of charge as long as its a single flavor. Rediscover the taste of regular coffee
Sometimes regular coffee can be all you need to satisfy your coffee craving. Starbucks has a variety of flavored coffees available that taste delicious when combined with a bit of free milk from the condiment bar. If you really want some extra flavor, ask for a shot of flavored coffee syrup for around 30 cents. Starbucks will also give you a free refill for 50 cents. Make your own latte right at the Starbucks condiment counter
First, order a double shot of espresso at the counter. You can then add your own milk to create your own inexpensive latte. Sweeten it with a few packets of sugar or Splenda and you can enjoy the Starbucks atmosphere and still have money in your pocket. Take advantage of Starbucks gift cards
Online auctions are a great source for Starbucks gift cards that still have unused dollars on them. You can usually purchase these for less than their face value. Once they arrive in the mail, head over to Starbucks and enjoy a refreshing coffee drink of your choice. Bring along a coffee cup
Many people don't realize that Starbucks will give you ten cents off your purchase if you bring your own cup. This is a saving that can add up over time. This is also a great way to recycle. Bring your own dessert
If you can't resist ordering a Starbucks muffin or coffee cake with your coffee, try bringing a cookie or other snack with you from home. Buy a regular coffee to go with your snack and you can revel in the Starbucks atmosphere and still get your fill of carbs.
Imagine all the money you'll save by not purchasing those costly Starbucks specialty drinks. Time to start planning that dream vacation!
