American adults are taking a page from their college days and pregaming before going to a bar or concert, as the price of drinks can now top $20 , according to a report. The inflated cost of a cocktail or a can of beer has become commonplace at a time when many Americans are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of necessities, including gas , groceries, rent and utilities, has also skyrocketed, leaving many people looking for hacks to save money. Nearly a third of 1,000 people surveyed by Zappi, a consumer insights platform, said they pre-drink to avoid buying pricey beers and cocktails at venues. That’s the case for Julie McCarthy, who recalled pregaming with vodka in her dorm room before going out with friends. Now 31, McCarthy has returned to the habit, telling the Wall Street Journal that she recently saw a tall can of black cherry White Claw being sold for $20 at a Massachusetts concert venue. “I saw that and thought, ‘Wow, I’m really glad I pregamed,” McCarthy said.…