Take the tap off of that keg of Natural Light and head to your local beer store, because contrary to popular belief, there are affordable craft beers out there. Most college students have prided themselves on a steady regimen of filling their bodies with below-average cheap beer. Dangerous and unnecessary, this act has made it hard to find a quality brew anywhere. No beer snobbery intended, but who doesn’t want to add variety to the sea of light beers? These seven beers will keep you hardworking college kids happy without breaking the bank. As always, drink responsibly and designate a driver.

Killian’s Irish Red
This amber lager will make you love the Irish even more. The Killian name was bought by Coors in the 1980s, and now it uses the old recipe that dates back to 1864. Irish Red is what a cheap and delicious beer should be. From a bottle or a pint glass, this is one of those beers that is enjoyable either way. The flavor is undeniably its own with a mellow taste that sticks with you in the best way possible. Amber ales tend to be heavy, but Killian’s Irish Red is an easy and tasty drink.
Price by case: $21.79(varies)

Long Trail’s IPA
Back in the day, the British Empire created the Real Indian Pale Ale by leaving it unfiltered and using extra hops so it would last longer and had a strong bitter taste. Long Trail holds true to this tradition of brewing an IPA. To college kids who drink light beer regularly, an IPA can be daunting to drink due to its bitterness. This is a turn-off to a lot of people with inexperienced palates. Lucky for you, Long Trail’s IPA has only a slight bitterness that makes it easier for some to drink.
Price: $29.79

Blue Moon’s Belgian White
If you watch television then you have probably seen advertisements for Blue Moon. Their Belgian White beer has become a must-have in bars and beer stores all over the country, and the price goes down as easy as the beer. A zesty hint of orange is easily recognizable among that natural wheat-beer taste. You can’t drink it without the iconic orange slice though.
Price: $29.99

Magic Hat’s #9
Magic Hat created a beer that’s “shrouded in secrecy,” but there’s no secret in its delicious taste. #9’s taste will confuse you, but after a couple sips you’ll realize that you’re drinking a genuinely good beer that is reasonably priced. It has a sort of tangy and sweet taste matching a slight bitterness. #9 is perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re out at the bars or just relaxing at home, it’s enjoyable anytime.
Price: $31.49

Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale
A staple in most Shippensburg bars, including Knute’s, Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale has become a favorite of beer-drinkers, from the beer snobs to the commoners. It’s slightly on the bitter side, but even those with picky palates will find its citrusy taste enjoyable. The Pale Ale is fairly priced for most to enjoy and it’s a great reward for all of the hard work put in during the week.
Price: $32.99

21st Amendment’s Hell or High Watermelon
As you drink Hell or High Watermelon, there’s one thought that comes to mind: summer. Fermented using watermelons, this wheat beer will make you want to relax by the pool. At first taste, there’s an obvious watermelon presence, but as you move into the after-taste, it’s complemented with an odd smooth-and-sour combination. It’s a seasonal beer that’s available from April to September, and you won’t have to dip far into vacation funds to purchase it.
Price: $33.39

Tröegs’ JavaHead Stout
Brewed with “locally roasted espresso and Kenyan coffee beans” from St. Thomas Roasters in Linglestown Pa., the JavaHead is a dark and delicious drink. Tröegs, located in Hershey, Pa., is a big name in the microbrewing industry. JavaHead has a full flavor with just the right amount of coffee and cocoa hints. Don’t be afraid of JavaHead’s heavy taste and high ABV, because there is a satisfying feeling to its strength. You may need to fork over a couple extra dollars for this beer due to its high alcohol content, but it’s well worth it.
Price: $34.99
__

Share