With the recession, constant talk of cutting back, and likely a disgruntled, laid-off friend or two, you may think staying in is the only way to save. Not true. While drinking, caffeining, and eating at home are all terrific ways to cut costs, an occasional night out is still possible even on a tight budget.

A few things to keep in mind along the way:

Go out for lunch. Lunch offerings are, on average, 50-70% of dinner prices. Or, if given the option, order a lunch portion at dinner. Less calories and cost.

Create an entrée of appetizers. With today’s portion sizes, appetizers provide all the food you need for a more reasonable price. Sometimes, you can even order two for less than the price of an entrée and more variety.

Dress down the coffee. If you must buy coffee (making it at home is really an unbeatable option though), skip the extras and super-sizing. A venti Starbucks latte with whip cream and an extra flavor shot costs upwards of $6. A tall cappuccino (espresso, nonfat milk, and water) runs about $2.50. And once again, a little less whip cream isn’t the worst thing health wise.

Eat in, go out for dessert. To cut down on spending—but get the feel of a night out—eat the main course at home. Then go out for a slice of pie or cake at a fraction of the cost.
Skip the popcorn. Loaded buttery goodness will cost anywhere from $4-$6, depending on how hungry you are. Not worth it. Neither is the $4 soda needed to wash it down. Save the money and go see another movie.

Booze smartly. Although the best option by a long shot is drinking at home, there are a few ways to cut down on the occasional, but necessary bar tab.

Look for happy hour specials. Go online to find daily deals. Websites such as http://www.drinkdeal.com/ http://www.happy-hour.net/ and http://www.dailyhappyhour.com/ keep track of specials in most American cities.

Skip the cover. Why pay upwards of $15 just to get inside and pay more to drink? There are plenty of places to get drunk for free. Well, just the cost of your drinks.

The bottom line: just because we’re in a recession doesn’t mean you have to shut yourself away. Go out, have fun, but be conscientious about what you’re spending and how to save. Living it up doesn’t have to break the bank.