British media reveal pub secrets: How they get money from you.

According to The Sun: We all have those uncomfortable feelings after a wild night when we check our bank account to find out how much we have spent. But it's not just our weakness for alcohol that is to blame - bars use various tricks to get us to spend more.

“These clever tactics mean that you can end up spending hundreds more a year than you planned,” says consumer expert Martin James.

Rosie Taylor has shared some helpful tips to help you stay within budget during your pub visit.

UPSelling TRICKS

When you order alcohol, they often ask if you would like a double or larger drink. Bar managers know this is an easy way to get guests to spend more.

“For customers, it’s not just about getting a bigger wine glass or a stronger drink, but also about what it symbolizes,” says Dr. Jenna Vyas-Lee, clinical psychologist.

You have to be careful and not fall into the trap that a double order means savings. Although some places do actually offer a lower price for a double drink, it is only advantageous if you drink more slowly.

“Making a drink 'larger' is an illusion of savings because you will drink it just as quickly,” adds Martin James.

TIP: Choose single drinks to cut costs in half and minimize hangovers.

NEVER ORDER THROUGH THE APP

Many pub chains like Wetherspoons and Greene King offer apps for ordering food and drinks at the table. It’s convenient, but the temptation to spend more can be strong.

“When the ordering process becomes easier, it can lead us to shop impulsively for things we hadn’t planned for,” says Dr. Jenna.

One should be cautious with service charges that can be added to the bill. For example, Urban in London charges 12.5% on the total amount.

TIP: Order at the bar to avoid random spending.

AVOID TEMPTING OPTIONS AT EYE LEVEL

Making a wise choice in the pub is difficult, especially after you've already had a few drinks. Bars often place expensive drinks at eye level to encourage you to choose them instead of cheaper options.

“We go to a party with the desire to buy new experiences,” notes Dr. Vyas-Lee.

TIP: Ask what the 'house' drink is to get a better price, and don't just take the first brand you see.

ORDERING BOTTLES IS NEVER COST-EFFECTIVE

Planning to order a bottle of wine? Reconsider - it could cost you more.

The average price for a bottle of wine currently stands at £24.40, which is 5% more than last year. If you plan to drink more than four glasses, it is better to order a bottle.

TIP: Ask for a carafe or order by the glass to control your spending.

TIME-LIMITED OFFERS — NOT THE BEST OPTION

Bars offer various deals to attract customers, like 2 for 1, but often these deals are only available at certain times.

Dr. Vyas-Lee explains that such limitations often lead to spending more than one should.

“We are very subject to the idea of scarcity,” she adds. “It’s a good deal only if you had planned to buy the advertised drink or food.”

TIP: Time-limited offers are only beneficial if you really need to buy something at that moment.

CREATING ATMOSPHERE

If the atmosphere in your pub is very pleasant, you might end up spending more than you planned. Studies show that loud music and bright lights can lead to faster drinking and more orders.

“Loud music and colorful lighting stimulate our brain significantly,” says Dr. Jenna.

TIP: Find a quiet spot or sit by a window with natural light to calm your nervous system.

To avoid unnecessary spending in pubs, it’s important to pay attention to the various consumption tactics that venues employ. By following these tips, you can not only save money but also reduce the risk of falling into traps that lead to impulsive decisions. Ultimately, planning your spending and being mindful of your consumption can greatly enhance your pub experience.