7-Eleven

The purpose of this article is not to dive deep on the 7-Eleven chain – yet – but simply to serve as a reminder during times of massive inflation that there are inexpensive alternatives for beverages on hot summer days and cooler winter nights.

Mixing soda or sweet fruit-flavored syrup with snowflake-sized ice crystals, 7-Eleven’s frozen Slurpees are particularly effective ways to beat the heat at minimal cost: $1.39 for 12 ounces or $1.99 for 30 ounces. Hot coffees, macchiatos, and chocolates go for $1.79 for 12 ounces, $1.99 for 16 ounces, $2.19 for 20 ounces, or $2.39 for 24 ounces.

While the quality of the hot drinks tends to be less impressive than ordering versions from dedicated coffee chains – and sugar levels may be higher, depending on the drink – 7-Eleven’s versions are around 1/3 the price, and more than good enough to keep you going.