Enjoying a night out at your favorite bar doesn’t have to drain your wallet—especially if you plan ahead with the right payment strategy. One of the most effective ways to save while still enjoying premium drinks is to buy gift cards in advance. Not only does this help you stay within budget, but it can also open the door to instant rewards.

Why Bar Gift Cards Can Be a Smart Move
Gift cards can serve as a built-in spending limit while offering savings you wouldn’t get by paying with cash or a standard card. Many rewards platforms give you the option to earn cashback with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card or get rewards with a Dave & Buster’s gift card instantly. These rewards can be stacked with in-house promotions such as happy hours, daily drink specials, or discounted appetizers.

Stacking Rewards for Maximum Value
The beauty of prepaid bar spending is in combining offers. For example, you could buy a gift card through Fluz right before heading out, use it to pay during a happy hour, and still earn rewards on top of the drink discounts. Some establishments also run seasonal gift card promos, such as giving you a bonus card after spending a certain amount, which further increases your value.

Where to Find Participating Bars
Many national and regional bar and restaurant chains offer gift cards eligible for rewards, including popular sports bars, brewery chains, and live music venues. Check each brand’s official site for gift card terms and any ongoing promotions. You can also browse Fluz’s store directory to find partner merchants where you can earn cashback with a Chili’s gift card or earn cashback with an Applebee’s gift card.

Budgeting with Gift Cards
Another advantage of pre-purchasing gift cards is that it helps you control spending. Instead of tapping your credit card endlessly, you’re setting a cap on how much you’ll spend that night. This is especially useful for larger group outings where tabs can quickly get out of hand.

Making the Most of Every Night Out
Next time you’re planning drinks with friends, think ahead. By securing your payment method before stepping into the bar, you’re not just avoiding overspending—you’re also turning every purchase into an opportunity to earn rewards.