Super Bowl Sunday is basically a national holiday… with snacks. And like most holidays, it can get expensive fast.
For Super Bowl LX (Sunday, February 8, 2026), kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. ET. And according to the 2026 Super Bowl Spending Survey from the, average planned spending is $94.77 per person—with total spending expected to reach $20.2 billion.
Translation: it’s easy to blow your budget on wings, dips, and “just one more” grocery run. Here’s how to keep the fun high and the spending low.
1) Set a “Game Day Budget” (Yes, Even for Nachos)
The most old-school money move is still the best one: decide what you’re willing to spend before you start shopping.
Quick budget formula
- Total budget (pick a number you can pay in full)
- Food + drinks
- Extras (decor, team gear, desserts)
- Going out (cover, tips, rideshare)
Pro tip: Use one card/cash for all Super Bowl purchases so you can actually track it. When the budget’s gone, the budget’s gone. The game will still be on.
2) Feed Your Crowd for Less (Without Serving Sad Snacks)
Hosting doesn’t have to mean catering-level costs. One recent estimate from the pegs a 10-person game-day spread at about $140. You can beat that with a little planning.
Smart hosting plays
- Do a potluck draft: You bring the “main event” (chili, sliders, wings). Guests bring sides, desserts, drinks.
- Pick 2 anchors + 3 fillers: Two crowd-pleasers (like chili + chips/queso) plus cheaper add-ons (veggies, popcorn, brownies).
- Buy store brands for chips, soda, and basics—save the “name brand” money for one standout item.
- Use Cashback+ in the MyPDCU app to find deals, discounts, and cash back on purchases.
- Shop once with a list. Every “quick run” is a budget ambush.
Leftovers = a win
Plan foods that become Monday lunch. If you’re paying for it, it should do at least two jobs.
3) Skip the “One-Time” Purchases
Decorations and themed everything are fun… for about three hours. If you’re going to spend here, keep it intentional.
- Reuse what you have: bowls, trays, a tablecloth, a couple cheap serving spoons—classic hosting tools never go out of style.
- DIY the vibe: team colors with napkins/cups, a handwritten snack “menu,” and you’re set.
- Set a gear rule: one item max (hat OR shirt OR mug). Not all three, unless you’re sponsored.
4) Don’t Let Streaming Sneak-Charge You
Before you add a new subscription “just for the game,” check what you already have and what’s included.
- Cancel reminder: If you do sign up for a one-month service, set a calendar reminder to cancel the next day.
- Split snacks, not logins: Keep it simple and legitimate—ask friends to bring food instead of trying to “optimize” accounts.
5) If You’re Going Out, Budget for the “Invisible Costs”
Watching at a bar can be cheaper than hosting… until you add the extras.
- Rideshare/parking
- Appetizers that multiply
- Tips
Decide your total “night out” cap ahead of time. Put it in your notes app. Treat it like a hard line, not a suggestion.
6) Keep Betting as Entertainment (Not a Financial Plan)
If you do squares or friendly wagers, keep it fun-sized.
- Only bet what you’d spend on a movie ticket.
- Never borrow to gamble.
- Don’t chase losses. That’s how “$10 for fun” turns into “I regret everything.”
7) The Real Win: Use the Momentum
Once the confetti settles, put the savings to work.
- Move whatever you didn’t spend into savings.
- Start a small weekly “fun fund” so big events don’t hit your budget all at once.
- Use Round Up-style habits so saving happens in the background.
Game Day Budget Mini-Worksheet
- Total budget: $_____
- Food: $_____
- Drinks: $_____
- Extras (decor/gear/dessert): $_____
- Going out (if applicable): $_____
Rule: If it doesn’t fit in one of these buckets, it doesn’t get bought.
Need a Hand Getting Your Budget Back on Track?
People Driven Credit Union members can use digital tools to track spending, set savings goals, and keep everyday finances organized—so the big game stays fun and Monday doesn’t come with regret. Membership eligibility requirements apply. Products and services may be subject to approval and terms may vary.
Info current as of February 3, 2026. Super Bowl details and viewing options may change. This article is for educational purposes and is not financial advice.
