You’re young and want to go out…

yet you have no money. Welcome to the club. The good news: a small budget doesn’t automatically relegate you to the couch with a six-pack. Barhopping on the cheap is feasible, as long as you do it strategically. A few things to keep in mind on your next night out:

Plan your night, sober.

Decide where you want to go, who you’re going with, and how you’re getting to and from before you start drinking. It can save a costly and drunken venue change/meet-up later.

Drink specials. Look for drink specials in your area. Most bars have designated nights with cheap beer pitchers, margaritas, and more. Take advantage of deals. Happy hour especially can really bring some bargains. Check these websites for specials in your town: . Also check for bar reviews if you’re investigating a new place.

No cover=more drinking money. Covers are not worth the money if you’re only looking to drink. Some bars charge upwards of $20 merely for entry. That’s at least three beers or two mixed drinks. Go to another bar, a free one.

Be wary of mixed drinks. Fancy martinis may appear dazzling and exotic, but usually cost a bundle. If you absolutely can’t resist, have one, but then switch to beer. You’ll thank yourself in the morning.

Pick a neighborhood and stay there. Trying to conquer an entire city in one night is not a good plan. Cabs, rides, or even public transportation from neighborhood to neighborhood will cost you. Find a group of bars you like and hop on foot.

Find a designated driver. The cheapest (and safest) mode of drunken transport is a designated driver. However, if no one wants to stay sober, call a cab, but share it with someone to alleviate the cost.

Drink in numbers. Large pitchers of beer, margaritas, sangria, etc are much cheaper than individual orders. Drinking in large groups is also beneficial if you’re catching a cab, as the tab will be divided more ways.

Use cash. Before you go out, decide how much money you want to spend. Put that amount in your wallet and drink until it’s gone. Then stop. This prevents morning-after panics when you discover you drank and charged an entire paycheck.

While these tips will cut down your drinking costs, don’t forget to mix in a night or two at home. Drinking in is still the cheapest option by far. However, everyone needs the occasional night out—and careful planning and smart choices will allow you to do it more frequently.