Drink Policies All-Inclusive: What You Can Really Drink at All-Inclusive Resorts

When you book an all-inclusive, a vacation package where meals, drinks, and sometimes activities are covered in one price. Also known as all-inclusive resort package, it sounds like a free-for-all—until you realize most places put a cap on how much you can drink. The big promise? Unlimited drinks. The quiet truth? Most resorts limit alcohol to about six drinks per day. It’s not a trick—it’s standard practice. But unless you’ve read the fine print, you might end up surprised at the bar.

Here’s what actually counts as a drink. A standard serving is usually 1.5 oz of spirits, a 5 oz glass of wine, or a 12 oz beer. Premium brands? Those often cost extra. Same goes for cocktails made with top-shelf liquor, imported beers, or specialty coffee drinks. Even soda and juice can be restricted at some places, especially if they’re labeled "premium." Some resorts offer drink credits instead of open bars, so you get a set number of drinks per day—and then you pay out of pocket. This isn’t just about profit; it’s about managing waste, staffing, and guest behavior. One resort manager told us they used to lose over 200 bottles of liquor a week to over-pouring and theft before they switched to drink limits.

Regional differences matter too. Resorts in the Caribbean often have looser rules than those in Europe or Asia. Some places let you drink freely until 10 p.m., others only during meal hours. And don’t assume your drink package includes room service or late-night snacks—those usually come with extra fees. If you’re planning a trip, check if the resort uses a drink limit, a daily cap on alcohol servings, often enforced through wristbands or digital tracking. Also known as alcohol allowance, it’s a key part of their resort alcohol policy. You’ll also find that some properties let you upgrade your package for a fee, while others don’t offer upgrades at all. It’s not about being stingy—it’s about setting clear expectations.

What about non-alcoholic drinks? Most all-inclusive resorts include unlimited soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee. But again, don’t assume. Some places charge for bottled water, especially if it’s imported. And if you’re into craft sodas or kombucha, you might need to pay extra. The same goes for smoothies, fresh juices, or specialty mocktails—those are often excluded unless you’re on a premium plan.

So how do you avoid getting nickel-and-dimed? Read the fine print before you book. Look for phrases like "select spirits," "premium beverages excluded," or "daily drink allowance." Call the resort and ask: "How many drinks are included per day, and what counts as a drink?" If they hesitate or give a vague answer, that’s a red flag. And if you’re planning to drink more than six drinks a day, consider booking a property with truly unlimited drinks—or plan to pay extra at the bar.

There’s a reason this topic comes up so often. People want to relax, enjoy themselves, and not worry about every sip costing more. But the reality is, drink policies all-inclusive aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re shaped by cost, culture, and control. The good news? Once you know the rules, you can plan smarter, save money, and actually enjoy your vacation without surprise bills. Below, you’ll find real guides from travelers who’ve been there—what worked, what didn’t, and how to make the most of your drink allowance without overpaying.