Drink Limits Explained: Hotels, Resorts & All‑Inclusive Packages
Ever booked a holiday and wondered how many drinks you can actually enjoy? Most places have a rulebook behind the bar, and knowing it can save you cash and surprise face‑palms. Below we break down the most common drink limits, what they mean for you, and simple tricks to stretch every sip.
Common Types of Drink Policies
All‑inclusive resorts. These usually bundle soft drinks, house wines and a selection of beers into the room rate. Premium cocktails, top‑shelf liquors and bottled water are often extra. Some resorts cap the number of drinks per day (for example, two alcoholic drinks per person), while others say “unlimited” but secretly count premium drinks toward a hidden tab.
Hotel bars and minibars. If you stay at a standard hotel, the minibar is priced per item and can be pricey. The on‑site bar works like any restaurant – you pay for each drink. Some boutique hotels add a “drinks credit” to the room, giving you a set amount (say £20) to spend on the bar before extra charges kick in.
Age and ID rules. In the UK, you must be 18 to order alcohol in a hotel bar. Resorts that cater to families often ask for ID at the pool bar and may limit alcohol to certain hours. If you travel with kids, expect the hotel to define a “child” as anyone under 12, and most places won’t serve alcohol to them at all.
Happy hour and refill policies. Some resorts offer an afternoon happy hour where drinks are half price or unlimited. Others allow you to refill a glass of house wine or beer as many times as you like during meals – just ask the server.
Tips to Stretch Your Drink Allowance
1. Ask about the menu. Before you order, check which drinks are “included” and which are “extra.” Knowing the list helps you avoid surprise charges.
2. Look for all‑inclusive add‑ons. A small upgrade (often £10‑£15) can turn a limited‑drinks package into an unlimited one, especially for premium cocktails.
3. Timing is key. Order during happy hour or pre‑dinner drinks when many resorts waive the extra charge. This can double the number of drinks you get for the same price.
4. Share responsibly. If your resort limits drinks per person, sharing a cocktail or a bottle of wine between two guests can keep you within the limit while still enjoying the taste.
5. Mind the minibar. It’s easy to grab a snack or a mini bottle, but each item can cost £3‑£7. If you’re watching the budget, skip it and buy a drink at the bar where you can see the price.
6. Bring your own non‑alcoholic drinks. Many resorts allow you to bring water or soft drinks to your room. This frees up your drink allowance for the alcoholic beverages you really want.
7. Check for “drink credits.” Some properties give a credit that you can spend on any bar. Use it early in your stay so you don’t lose it if it expires.
Knowing how drink limits work lets you plan your evenings without awkwardly checking the receipt later. Ask the front desk, read the fine print, and enjoy your holiday the way you imagined – with a glass in hand, not a surprise bill.
