Etiquette for Taking Back Money When Buying Drinks at Bars and Clubs

Whether you're in a bar or club, there's a certain etiquette that comes into play when you're buying drinks for your friends. This article outlines the proper ways to take back money after you've purchased rounds, ensuring smooth and polite interactions with your group.

Understanding the Rules

When you buy a round of drinks for your friends, the expectation is that they will pay their share as you go. However, different methods are used in different countries, and certain scenarios have unique rules. This guide will help clarify the best practices for taking back money in the UK and in bars and clubs globally.

Methods of Taking Back Money in the UK

Method 1: Pints or Glasses of Wine

This is the first method commonly used in the UK, especially when buying a round for friends. The steps to follow are as follows:

The buyer purchases the round. After the buyer purchases the round, the friends continue to buy drinks as they choose. Everyone involved in the round should contribute their share before leaving the table. This ensures no one is left owing money and everyone can exit in a polite manner.

Note that there might be someone in the group who is a cheapskate. While it's common to encounter such individuals, it's always better to ensure everyone pays their fair share to maintain a fair and fun environment.

Method 2: Shared Drinking Float

The second method involves a shared drinking float, which is a more organized and transparent way to manage the money for the drinks. Here’s how it works:

Establish the float amount. A group member gathers a pool of money, typically using a tenner or twenty, and creates a fund. Everyone involved contributes their desired amount, and a designated individual keeps a list of contributions. One person is responsible for going to the bar to pay with the collected funds. It’s often wise to have a second person accompany them to ensure the money is properly managed and to help carry the glasses of drinks. Before leaving the table, the change is returned to the float. This ensures that the funds remain available for future rounds. When the time comes, another group member takes up the task of going to the bar, using the list and the remaining funds in the float to purchase the necessary drinks. When the float is nearly depleted, you can either finish the current round or start a new one, depending on your group's preferences and available funds.

General Tips for Buying and Paying in Bars and Clubs

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, here are some additional tips:

Pre-arrange the order of who will go. This helps to avoid confusion and ensures that money is properly shared and managed. Be clear about the shared float. If you're using a shared float, make sure everyone knows the rules and how the money is to be managed. Encourage contributions from all. Include everyone in the group in the round and let them know that their participation is vital to maintaining a fun atmosphere. Tip the bartender appropriately. Tipping is a sign of appreciation and good manners. Always ensure that you leave a generous tip when buying drinks for others.

Conclusion

Cultivating good etiquette is key to having a fun and successful social experience in bars and clubs. By following the outlined guidelines for taking back money, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable environment for all those involved. Remember, the goal is to maintain a fun and inclusive atmosphere while respecting each other's contributions and preferences.