It’s a Friday night. You’ve just walked into a packed bar — lights low, music loud, and the bartender dodging six different drink orders while restocking garnishes and pouring shots. You manage to snag a spot at the bar and now it’s your moment. But how you order matters more than you think — for your wallet, your experience, and the bartender’s sanity.

Bar etiquette isn’t just about being polite. It’s about ordering smarter, tipping right, and, yes, saving money without being cheap. The good news? It doesn’t take much to go from average patron to low-key legend — all while keeping your tab in check.

Start with eye contact. Not the creepy kind — just the confident, I-know-what-I-want kind. Bartenders notice. Have your order ready, know what’s on special, and avoid shouting “What beers do you have?” when the list is clearly posted. This kind of awareness not only keeps things moving — it also positions you for a better experience. Regulars who order clean, tip well, and don’t create chaos? They get the heads-up on drink deals and the occasional heavier pour.

Here’s where it gets interesting for the budget-conscious: order smart. That doesn’t mean always sticking with the cheapest thing on the menu. It means knowing the value plays. Well drinks are generally your most affordable bet — vodka soda, gin and tonic, rum and Coke. They’re simple, strong, and often a couple of bucks cheaper than anything with a muddler involved. If you’re at a bar known for cocktails, go for a classic like a daiquiri, old fashioned, or gimlet — they’re less expensive to make and rarely disappoint.

Now for the behind-the-scenes tip: use your phone — before you pay. If you’re at a spot like Buffalo Wild Wings, TGI Fridays, or anywhere else that accepts gift cards, pull up Fluz. You can buy a gift card in seconds, use it instantly, and get cashback just for paying smarter. You’ll save anywhere from 2% to 15% — and nobody behind the bar will even know (or care). You can also use Fluz for food delivery after the bar, so your late-night order of wings or pizza comes with a side of cashback.

Ordering drinks for a group? Activate Rakuten if you’re using a delivery app to preorder drinks or snacks for the night. Many bars also appear on Groupon or OpenTable — and those bookings can be cashback-eligible too. For home pre-gaming? Ibotta is your friend. Rebates on mixers, canned cocktails, and even snacks are up for grabs at places like Target, Walmart, and CVS.

The pros know to tip well, even when they’re saving money. A good rule of thumb is $1 per drink minimum — more if the drink’s complex or the bar is slammed. Generosity now often turns into faster service (and sometimes stronger pours) later.

By the end of the night, you’ve done it. You’ve ordered like a pro, saved a few bucks with Fluz gift cards, and avoided the classic rookie moves. Your drinks were well-chosen, your interactions were smooth, and the bartender even gave you a nod on your way out. That’s the difference a little etiquette — and a little strategy — can make.