How much does clubbing on the Gold Coast cost?

There is nothing better than a big night out with all your nearest and dearest. While your head may feel a little foggy and your feet may have a few more blisters when you wake up than when you were getting ready the night before, the wear and tear is always worth the memories you’ll have. 

Whether it’s to celebrate an occasion or simply to mark the end of the week, the Gold Coast is undoubtedly one of the greatest places to let your hair down and really have some after-hours fun. There’s everything from underground and hidden clubs to multi-dance floor destinations that pump out the tunes all week long. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it right here. 

While you’ll likely forget all about your budget the moment you step foot onto the dancefloor, it’s even better to wake up the next morning without the paralysing fear of checking your bank balance. Afterall, we’ve all been there. You wake up after a big night of feeling hungover and do everything in your power to avoid logging on to your internet banking. 

Between cocktails, Ubers or midnight snacks, there are plenty of opportunities to you’re your wallet and splash out a few dollars when you hit the town. According to a report by Eventbrite, the average event-goer spends $112 on a night out. The report found people had an average of 3 drinks on a night out, with 18% reaching for 5 or more and only 6% not drinking at all. The report also found we spend the same amount of money on food as we do on public transport to and from a venue. 

But the beauty of a night out on the Gold Coast is that it doesn’t have to break your bank account. In fact, there are options to suit every budget, taste and style. You can go all out on an elaborate extravaganza that well exceeds the average of $112 or keep things a little more low key, low cost. 

How much does it cost? 

While it’s just down the road from Brisbane, the Gold Coast is typically much cheaper for a night out. You’ll likely pay single figures for your average drink and around the $20 mark for a cocktail of your choosing. 

Some local clubs charge entry fees, but when you live it up with Wicked Nightlife, you’ll also be given the VIP treatment – which means no cover charge and a fast-tracked ticket to the front of the queue. Your transport costs will depend where you’re travelling to, but there are options to work into any budget. 

Five simple ways to keep costs down

Bring cash instead of card

The tap and go culture of today means it’s super easy and convenient to make payments, but also means we often give our spending much less consideration. We recommend setting a budget before you head out, bringing the right amount of cash with you, and leave your card at home or in your hotel room to help curb your spending. If you run out of cash, it might be a sign that it’s time to call it a night! 

Eat and drink before you go 

It’s easiest way to stop yourself from forking out on food and drinks is to have a couple at home before you leave. Pre-drinks will not only cut down your drinking bill on a night out, but will also help set the celebratory tone for an epic outing. You can keep spirits high by turning it into a drinking game, making your own cocktails to share with each other or even enjoying a drink or too on your balcony or in your backyard to make the most of the view – which is particularly great if you’re visiting the Gold Coast. Even if you end up buying more drinks and food once you hit the clubs, you can do so knowing that you’ve got a little more spending money up your sleeve. 

Avoid expensive drinks

Sometimes it’s nice to splash out on the pink sparkly cocktail and treat yourself, but other times it’s better to just stick with all the basics. Drinks like vodka and soda, gin and tonic, or on-tap beer always hit the spot and are much gentler on your wallet. Another great way to save some dollars is to switch between basics and cocktails, so that you still get the best of both worlds – without spending too much money. 

Plan transport in advance 

One of the greatest things about a night out on the Gold Coast is that nothing is ever far from reach. You can easily jump between clubs and bars across a variety of different regions, without spending too much time in transit. While it’s super simple to get between all the major locations, it’s also really helpful to plan your transport in advance. 

A great way to keep everyone together and avoid spending your cash on Ubers or taxis is to book a party bus for the night. This will give you the opportunity to enjoy a few drinks onboard, dust off all your dance moves and strut your stuff in front of a familiar crowd. And while you’re living it up, your bus driver will chauffeur you to the next location and drop you off right at the door. When it comes to the end of the night, the driver will then ensure everyone gets back to your hotel or accommodation, without all travelling in separate transport. 

Get a drinks package 

When you party with Wicked Nightlife, you get front row access to all of our best suppliers and the benefits of our extensive network of connections. This will not only mean you don’t have to pay entry or wait in the queue, but you’ll also be treated to some great drinks packages. Teeing these up ahead of time will ensure the bar is stocked with all your favourites and you can even arrange a private bartender to keep all the bevvies flowing. On top of that, buying in bulk will also give you a great discount on the overall bill – so that everyone can live it up, without breaking the bank balance.