Sober October: how much can you save?

Sober October is here, when tens of thousands swap the margaritas for the milkshakes, the bloody Mary’s for the berry juice, to reap the rewards of an alcohol-free month. 

It’s a test of willpower, but the benefits are more than just feeling good. Beyond improving your mental and physical health, going sober can have a positive impact on your finances too. 

Here are some ways you can save money during Sober October. 

Simply cutting out alcohol 

Macmillan Cancer Support hosts the official Sober October fundraising campaign, where participants get sponsors for staying off the alcohol all month and donating the money to support the charity's essential services. 

You might be surprised how much even a few weekend drinks add up over a month. Try the official Sober October alcohol calculator to see how much you might save.  

For example, if you usually have four pints of beer a week, skipping them for a month could save you around £65. If wine and cocktails are more your thing, giving up four glasses of wine and a couple of cocktails each week could save you about £130 over the course of the month. 

Fewer visits to the pub 

Without the temptation of alcohol, you might be less inclined to visit the pub. Even if you do, opting for non-alcoholic drinks is cheaper than alcoholic ones. If you're feeling particularly health-conscious, you can always ask for a glass of tap water, which is usually free at most venues. 

Save money on taxis 

Another easy way to save money during Sober October is by skipping taxis. Not only will you have more cash in your pocket, but by becoming the designated driver – or ‘dryver’ – you might just become the most popular person in your group of friends. You could even consider charging a small fee for lifts.  

Avoid late-night shopping splurges  

A few drinks can make those shiny boots on eBay seem irresistible, and thanks to one-click shopping, they can end up on your doorstep before you know it. If you tend to shop online after drinking, you're not alone. A survey of 2,000 adults found that over half (54%) admitted to doing so. 

Alcohol can lead to impulsive buys, making shoppers more vulnerable to sneaky sales tactics. In the UK, where over 80% of people shop online, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has raised concerns about questionable sales practices, including unexpected subscription traps, fake reviews, and hidden charges. 

To help consumers, the CMA launched an ‘Online Rip-Off Tip-Off’ campaign in 2022, warning shoppers to be cautious, especially when they’re tired or drinking. So, before you ‘drink and click,’ remember that retailers might be counting on your impulsiveness. 

Quick tips for a month of sobriety  

Staying sober doesn’t have to be limited to October or Dry January. If you want to take a break from alcohol to improve your health and finances, here are some tips to help you stay on track: