Resort Beverages: What’s Really Included and How to Make the Most of Them

If you’ve ever booked an all‑inclusive getaway, the first thing on your mind is probably the bar menu. Does "all‑inclusive" mean free cocktails all day? Are there hidden caps on drinks? The short answer: it varies a lot, and knowing the details can save you money and prevent surprise charges.

Most resorts bundle drinks into a "package" that covers everything from soft drinks to a limited selection of spirits. The exact lineup depends on the brand, location, and price tier. Luxury beachfront resorts often offer premium wines and top‑shelf liquors, while budget‑friendly spots may stick to house wines and basic spirits. Always check the resort’s brochure or website for a drink list before you book.

Typical Drink Packages and Their Limits

Here are the three most common arrangements you’ll see:

• Unlimited Buffets & Open Bars: You can order as many drinks as you want during dining hours. Some places even run 24‑hour bars, but they may limit high‑priced cocktails.
• Daily Drink Caps: A set number of drinks per day (often six) is the norm. Counters reset each morning, so plan your evenings around the limit.
• Tiered Packages: You pay extra for premium liquor or for a separate “premium drinks” add‑on. This lets you keep the base package cheap while still enjoying a few fancy cocktails.

Knowing which model a resort uses helps you decide whether the all‑inclusive price is worth it for your drinking habits.

Practical Tips to Stretch Your Drink Budget

Ask Before You Book: Call the front desk and ask exactly what’s covered. Phrase it like, "Can you tell me which spirits are included in the all‑inclusive package?" The answer will reveal any hidden limits.

Scope Out the Hours: Some resorts limit bar service to lunch and dinner. If you love a late‑night cocktail, pick a place with a 24‑hour bar or bring a small bottle of your favorite spirit (if the policy allows).

Use the Daily Cap Wisely: Sip a glass of wine with lunch, a cocktail at sunset, and finish with a nightcap. Spreading drinks across meals keeps you under the daily limit without feeling deprived.

Take Advantage of Happy Hours: Even all‑inclusive resorts sometimes run happy‑hour specials that include premium drinks for free or at a reduced price. Keep an eye on the resort’s daily schedule.

Consider a Drink Add‑On: If you know you’ll exceed the standard cap, buying a drink add‑on upfront can be cheaper than paying per‑drink later.

Finally, remember that water is always free and staying hydrated helps you enjoy the alcoholic drinks responsibly. A glass of water between cocktails is a simple trick that also reduces the total number of drinks you need to reach your limit.

Bottom line: not every all‑inclusive resort treats "unlimited drinks" the same way. By checking the fine print, asking the right questions, and planning your consumption, you can sip, smile, and avoid surprise charges at the end of your stay.