Getting your round in

No one likes a sponger. So cut out the shameful round-dodging and get the bloody drinks in.

Blagging the odd free drink from admirers, richer acquaintances and family is all well and good, but when you're constantly scrounging off a mate or lover, especially one who earns the same or less than you, you're pushing the limits of generosity and friendship. At worst, you could find yourself with a reputation as a free-loader. And that's not nice, we promise.

Pint etiquette

If your mates earn a lot more than you and prefer to have expensive nights out, it isn't too unfair to expect them to buy the odd drink or pay the cab fare when you go out with them. You can return the sentiment by getting a couple of (cheaper) beers for them down the local or cooking them dinner. However if you're constantly strapped for cash you may want to look to a more permanent solution:

• Be honest - If you're really strapped and it's your turn to buy the drinks you could be honest and just say you can't afford it, but if someone gets the round this time you'll pay them back on pay day. Only offer to pay them back if you mean it and can, and only use this as a blag once in a blue moon or people will wise up to you.
• Buy your own - Opt out of rounds all together and just buy your own drinks. This way you know exactly how much you can spend, you don't feel the need to keep up with everyone else, and you're not lumbered with a 30-drink round at the end of the night.
• Don't drink alcohol every time you go out - Drink soft drinks/tap water to keep the costs lower, or drink your beer slowly. Also find out if the bar is running any decent promos and drink them instead.
• Stay in - If you cut down on your nights out you'll have more money to spend when you do go out, and thus less need to rely on mates to pay for everything.
• Get a new job - If you're constantly skint, don't have huge outgoings and have a full time job, it may be worth considering looking for a new one. If your pay is too low for your preferred standard of living, it may be time to take a stand. Firstly ask your current boss for a pay rise. If they refuse, maybe its time to start reading those job ads.

And if shame isn't an issue:

• Hide in the loos - Aim to buy the last round, then hide in the loos. Hopefully everyone will be too sloshed by that point to remember who's round it is and you can convince someone else that it's his or hers.