Think $30 barely gets you through the door these days? Not if you plan it right. Booze crawls don’t have to blow your paycheck — in fact, with the right strategy (and a little help from cashback apps), you can hit multiple bars, sip solid drinks, and still have enough left for late-night pizza. This is your guide to an affordable night out that feels anything but cheap.

Pick the Right Neighborhood

First rule of crawl club: location matters. Stick to walkable neighborhoods with high bar density and a reputation for deals. In New York, the East Village and Bushwick are prime territory. In Chicago, Wicker Park or Logan Square will treat you right. Austin? Try East 6th. You want places where drink specials are the norm — not the exception.

Pre-Game with Cashback

Start smart: before you even step out the door, use Fluz gift cards to buy a digital gift card for any bars or delivery apps you’ll hit later. Places like Buffalo Wild Wings, TGI Fridays, and even Uber Eats are on Fluz, and you’ll get instant cashback when you buy a gift card for your tab.

Then layer on Rakuten or Ibotta for snacks, mixers, or pre-game supplies. Grabbing a six-pack and snacks at Walgreens? Link your loyalty account to Ibotta and get some cash back there, too.

A Sample $30 Booze Crawl Blueprint

Let’s say you’re in a city like Philly or Nashville where drinks are $6–8 during happy hour:

Stop 1: The $5 Well Drink Warm-Up

Hit a bar with a killer happy hour. Many places offer $5 wells or draft specials between 4–7 p.m. Order a gin and tonic and get the night rolling. Budget: $5 + tip

Stop 2: Beer and a Bite

Swing by a bar that serves sliders or tacos for $2–3 apiece. Add a domestic beer for $5. Budget: $8 total

Stop 3: Craft Cocktail on Special

Find a slightly fancier spot with one or two cocktails under $10. Look for a negroni, old fashioned, or house margarita on special. Budget: $9

Stop 4: Dive Bar Finale

End at a local dive with strong pours and jukebox vibes. You’re looking for a $4 well or draft, and possibly a free snack (popcorn counts). Budget: $5

Grand Total: $27

Bonus: You earned $3+ back using Fluz gift cards or Rakuten, so technically you’re under budget. Cheers to that.

Tips to Stretch the Crawl Further

• Share a round: Splitting drinks like pitchers or punch bowls gives you more value per sip.
• Ask about off-menu deals: Some bars have unlisted specials for regulars or weekday visitors.
• Walk, don’t rideshare: Save your Uber for the trip home and spend that cash on actual drinks.
• Stay hydrated: Order a water with each round. Keeps you sharp and helps with pacing.