Living in a vibrant, fast-paced city like London in your mid-twenties often comes with an unspoken pressure: the expectation to participate in frequent and often expensive nights "out-out." This usually translates to heavy drinking, late nights, and a significant dent in your bank account. But what if there's a better way? What if you could trade the hazy memories and next-day regrets for something more fulfilling and financially sound?

Many people, myself included, are beginning to question the value proposition of these boozy excursions. The financial strain alone can be substantial. A single night out in London, with its notoriously high prices, can easily set you back £100 or more. This includes pre-drinks, club entry fees, cloakroom charges, and the inevitable late-night takeaway.

The pre-drinking strategy, intended to mitigate the cost, often falls short. Time slips away, and a couple of drinks at a pub or bar before heading out can quickly add another £25 to the evening's tally. While cheaper alternatives exist, the allure of a cozy pub atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails can be hard to resist.

Club entry fees are another significant expense. Venues like Piano Works, known for their lively atmosphere, typically charge upwards of £15 just to get through the door. And even staying local doesn't guarantee savings. Popular spots like Infernos can easily cost £12 or more on event nights.

Once inside, the expenses continue to mount. Cloakroom charges add a few more pounds, and drinks quickly escalate the bill. A "cheap" night out inside a club can easily cost around £60, and that's being conservative. This combination of costs adds up quickly, with a single night out easily exceeding £120.

The financial implications are even more significant when considering the frequency of these outings. If you're going out a few times a month, you're essentially waving goodbye to over £300. That's a substantial sum that could be used for other, more enriching experiences.

Several years ago, I made a conscious decision to shift my focus from these costly and often draining nights out. I decided to trade the Sunday morning headaches and stomach sensitivities for alternative adventures. Instead of spending my weekends recovering from excessive drinking, I started exploring new hobbies, planning staycations, and embarking on exciting day trips.

Interestingly, I've discovered that I'm actually saving money by reducing my frequency of big nights out. Instead of going out three times a month, I now limit myself to one every other month. The extra funds have allowed me to pursue travel and other experiences that I previously thought were beyond my reach.

One such adventure was a deeply impactful day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland. Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest and most lethal Nazi German concentration and extermination camp complex during the Second World War. This somber yet essential journey allowed me to explore the original barracks, watchtowers, and ruins of this historically significant site.

Despite the -15C temperature, the experience was life-changing. It provided a profound understanding of the horrors of the Holocaust and a renewed appreciation for the importance of remembrance. Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial offers a sobering perspective, acting as a powerful testament to human resilience and a stark reminder of the consequences of intolerance.

Flights to Krakow Airport, the closest airport to Auschwitz, can be surprisingly affordable. While I paid around £80 for a return flight, fares can sometimes be found for as little as £27 from other UK airports. The Krakow Airport is well-connected, making it an accessible gateway to explore the region and reflect upon its history.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial offers free entry, but advance booking is essential. A train ticket from Krakow to Oświęcim, the town where Auschwitz is located, costs between £1.50 and £14.25. In total, the entire day trip cost me just over £100, a significant saving compared to a typical night out in London.

Inspired by the possibilities, I'm already planning future trips. I have plans to visit Carcassonne in France, a historic hilltop city known for its well-preserved medieval walled city, La Cité, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return flights from London Stansted are available for around £42, making it an affordable European getaway.

During my trip to Carcassonne, I plan to stay at Le Couvent Hostel, located in the city center within a 17th-century convent. A bed in a six-bed female dorm costs around £30.20 per night, totaling £60.40 for the two-night stay. Exploring the historical charm of Carcassonne, a place filled with medieval history and fascinating architecture.

Edinburgh, Scotland, is another city that I'm eager to explore. With return flights available for as little as £40 per person, it's an accessible and culturally rich destination. The Edinburgh Castle stands as a testament to the city's rich history, offering panoramic views.

Thanks to the money saved from cutting back on nights out, I was able to spend five days in Edinburgh for a total of £150. The majority of this cost went towards accommodation. I stayed at the Kick Ass Grassmarket hostel, conveniently located in the city center, for £15 per night. This hostel served as a great hub to navigate Edinburgh's many attractions.

To keep costs down, I utilized the hostel's kitchen to prepare my own meals. While I opted not to pay for entry to some of the city's attractions, such as the castle, I still enjoyed admiring them from the outside and learning about their history. Edinburgh offers plenty of free activities, including visiting Greyfriars Kirkyard and hiking up Arthur's Seat.

The financial benefits of reducing nights out extend beyond travel. I've also been able to explore more of my own city, London. I now make an effort to see at least one West End show per month. The city is always brimming with theatrical entertainment.

This shift in lifestyle aligns with a growing trend among Gen Z, who are increasingly ditching boozy nights out in favor of alternative experiences. This trend is partly driven by a desire for healthier lifestyles and more meaningful social connections. One alternative is the "6am rave," also known as a "morning rave," offers an energetic start to the day without the need for alcohol.

For some, a good night out might involve a run along the Thames with friends, followed by veggie pizza and a relaxed evening. The appeal of group exercise and sober socializing is gaining traction, offering a healthier and more fulfilling alternative to traditional nightlife. Instead of relying on alcohol or drugs to enhance the experience, the focus is on genuine connection and shared enjoyment.

The experience of attending a Morning Gloryville event further solidified my belief that alcohol is not a prerequisite for fun. The energy of caffeine, daylight, and dancing with strangers created an addictive atmosphere. The Ecstatic Dance provides a different dimension that allows the natural happiness chemicals in your brain to take over.

The early morning rave scene is evolving, with innovative concepts like infrared saunas incorporated into the experience. Attending a 6:30 am event at The Sanctuary and Soul in Shoreditch, where DJ Rob da Bank performed a live set, was a unique and invigorating way to start the day. With exercise, sauna, and dancing all ticked off before work, it's hard to imagine a better morning routine.

Consider the possibilities of redirecting the money you typically spend on nights out. By cutting back on just a couple of nights out each month, you could save enough for a memorable trip or experience. Whether it's exploring a new city, indulging in a relaxing staycation, or pursuing a long-held interest, the possibilities are endless.

Ultimately, the decision of how to spend your time and money is a personal one. However, by questioning the default expectation of frequent and expensive nights out, you open yourself up to a world of alternative experiences that can be more fulfilling, financially sustainable, and aligned with your personal values. Choosing to participate in an escape room or attend a new music concert could prove to be just as enjoyable!