The Best Starbucks Hacks to Save Money

PDF download Download Article
Indulge on a budget with these insider Starbucks tips
PDF download Download Article

What can you say? Starbucks is your obsession, and while you may love it, your wallet sure doesn’t. If your love for Starbucks is draining your bank account, have no fear—there are tons of ways you can save money at Starbucks without sacrificing your daily caffeine kick. Take a look at these money-saving hacks and tricks to learn how to get free stuff at Starbucks.

1

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use the Starbucks app for each purchase to earn Stars. The best way to save money at Starbucks is to become a loyal user of their app. You can earn points or Stars when you make an account and sign up for their rewards program . Every purchase earns you more Stars, eventually leading to free drinks, food, and more. [1]
    • You’ll earn 1 Star for every dollar.
    • Once you earn 25 Stars, you can start cashing in those freebies!
    • The Starbucks app occasionally has seasonal games and sweepstakes that can help you earn extra Stars, so keep an eye out for those.
    • Forget to use the app to make your purchase? No worries! Scan your Starbucks receipt in the app to make sure you get your Stars.
    2. Advertisement
2

Earn a free drink or food item on your birthday.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you become a Starbucks rewards member, the discounts and benefits just roll in! These include a free drink or food item on your birthday. Simply keep an eye on your email or the app on your special day. Then, head to a Starbucks to cash in your free gift. [2]
    • This reward must be used within 7 days of your birthday.
3

Get free in-store drip coffee and tea refills.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c4\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c4\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You may be eligible for unlimited free refills if you order a brewed coffee or tea in-store. Simply order your beverage, drink it at your leisure in-store, and then head back to the counter and ask the barista for a refill (just be prepared to show them your rewards account). [3]
    • This hack only works for plain drip coffees and teas. It doesn’t apply to iced tea lemonades, cold brews, or blended beverages (like Frappuccinos).
    • Try this hack the next time you visit a Starbucks inside a Target. Do your shopping, and then get a free drink refill on your way out!
    • Keep in mind that refills aren’t offered in every store.
    • Similarly, you can order French press coffee (if your location offers it) and drink it in-store.
    2. Advertisement
4

Bring your own cup.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Starbucks encourages their customers to bring their own cups to fill up. Why? Because it saves the environment and saves you money! By bringing your own reusable cup, you’ll get a $0.10 discount and earn 25 extra Stars. [4]
    • You’ll be charged for the closest cup size to your cup.
    • This hack can be used once per transaction and up to 3 times a day.
5

Take advantage of happy hour.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Every few weeks, Starbucks hosts a happy hour event for loyal customers. [5] BOGO drinks are typically offered to reward members on Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m.
    2. Advertisement
6

Ask for light ice.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    More often than not, Starbucks likes to fill their cups over halfway with ice. This means you’re typically getting more ice than beverage in iced drinks. To avoid this, ask for light ice while ordering in-store or with the app. [6]
7

Order a venti to share.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/37\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/37\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A 24-ounce venti latte costs around $4.95; a 12-ounce tall latte costs around $3.95. To save money, order a venti drink of your choice and ask the barista to split it into 2 tall cups. This way, you’ll have 2 12-ounce drinks for the price of 1 drink. [7]
    • This hack can only be done in-store, as the app doesn’t give you the option to split a drink.
    2. Advertisement
8

Ask for 2 tea bags.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you order a hot tea at Starbucks, the barista typically gives you 1 tea bag; however, you can ask for a second one to make a stronger brew. Request the same tea bag twice, or try mixing 2 tea flavors to make your own delicious concoction.
    • Consider asking for the second tea bag on the side. This way, you can steep a second cup later.
9

Order whipped cream instead of cold foam.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6b\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6b\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While cold foam is delicious, it can get rather expensive. Starbucks charges around $2 for additional cold foam, whereas whipped cream is free. Consider ditching the foam for whip. After all, they’re both tasty and have similar consistencies! [8]
    2. Advertisement
10

Ask for no water in iced tea.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Starbucks pre-makes their teas, diluting them with water once ordered. For a stronger tea and more bang for your buck, ask for an iced tea with no water. This way, you’ll get the original premade tea rather than the watered-down version.
11

Order a cup of water rather than a bottle.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e0\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e0\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Water bottles can cost up to $3 at Starbucks, whereas a cup of ice water is completely free. So, the next time you need some H2O, ditch the plastic bottle and ask the barista for some ice water. [9]
    2. Advertisement
12

Get Chai Tea with bags instead of concentrate.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    There are 2 types of chai available at Starbucks: Chai Tea and Chai Lattes. Chai Tea Lattes cost around $6 and are made with milk and concentrate; meanwhile, Chai Teas are around $4 and are made with water and tea bags. Believe it or not, ordering a regular Chai Tea with a splash of milk is cheaper than getting a Chai Tea Latte (plus, they taste very similar).
13

Order a Blended Iced Mocha over a Mocha Frappuccino.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A Blended Iced Mocha and Mocha Frappuccino are almost the same thing. The only difference between them? How fine the ice is. Frappuccinos have finer ice and cost around $6, while blended iced drinks are about $5. If you don’t mind a slushier consistency, consider ordering a blended drink over a Frappuccino to save a buck.
    2. Advertisement
14

Order a Puppuccino for your dog.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Puppuccinos (or small cups of whipped cream) are free at Starbucks. Order a Puppuccino along with your drink so your dog can have a treat as well. [10]
15

Check for Uber Eats discounts.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you order Starbucks delivery through Uber Eats, you may be eligible for a $5 discount. Use the code COFFEE4U at checkout, and check the app regularly for Uber Eats-specific sales and offerings.
    • Uber Eats regularly runs promotions for new-time users or free delivery. To find even more coupons, search “Uber Eats discounts” online.
    2. Advertisement
16

Consider working at Starbucks.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6f\/Starbucks-Hacks-Step-16.jpg\/v4-728px-Starbucks-Hacks-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’re an avid Starbucks customer looking for a job, becoming a barista may be the perfect hack for you! Not only will you get to learn the ins and outs of making your favorite drinks, but you’ll also earn free drinks before and after your shifts. [11]
    • Starbucks employees also receive a 30% discount on their days off and 1 free pound of coffee beans or box of tea per week.
    • As another bonus, employees can also apply for the Starbucks College Achievement Plan and earn free tuition. [12]

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • I get iced tea at Starbucks but they dilute it, so I always ask for no water and no ice to give me the most tea possible. Then I go home and dilute it myself. You get more bang for your buck!
      • If you are a Starbucks rewards member, you get 25 extra stars if you bring your own cup into the store instead of using one of theirs. Plus, it's a good way to reduce waste.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Order a Medicine Ball at Starbucks
      A Guide to Getting Your Starbucks Partner Discount in the App
      How to
      Send a Starbucks Gift Card on iPhone & Android
      How to
      Order at Starbucks
      How to
      Check Starbucks Gift Card Balance on PC or Mac
      How to
      Access Your Work Schedule as a Starbucks Partner (Employee)
      How to
      Get a Starbucks Gold Card
      How to
      Use the Starbucks Card Mobile App
      How to
      Get a Starbucks Birthday Drink for Free
      Starbucks App Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It
      The Best Refreshers to Order on Starbucks’ Secret Menu
      How to
      Make Starbucks Coffee
      How to
      Get a Job at Starbucks
      The Best Frappuccinos to Order On Starbucks' Secret Menu
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.starbucks.com/rewards
      2. ↑ https://www.starbucks.com/rewards
      3. ↑ https://customerservice.starbucks.com/sbux?id=topics&article=KB0011481
      4. ↑ https://customerservice.starbucks.com/sbux?id=topics&article=KB0010820
      5. ↑ https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2018/happy-hour-2018-returns-to-starbucks/
      6. ↑ https://www.savethestudent.org/save-money/food-drink/free-starbucks-secret-hacks.html
      7. ↑ https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/starbucks-money-hacks
      8. ↑ https://www.tastingtable.com/1312799/tricks-save-some-money-starbucks/
      9. ↑ https://www.savethestudent.org/save-money/food-drink/free-starbucks-secret-hacks.html
      1. ↑ https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/starbucks-hacks/
      2. ↑ https://www.starbucks.com/careers/working-at-starbucks/benefits-and-perks/
      3. ↑ https://starbucks.asu.edu

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 13,967 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Cecilia Y.

        May 3

        "So many helpful tips! I had no idea so many items were virtually the same but one is cheaper. Thank you!"
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement