Unlimited Drinks at All‑Inclusive Resorts – What You Need to Know

If you’ve booked an all‑inclusive stay, you probably expect a cocktail every hour, right? The phrase “unlimited drinks” looks great on a brochure, but the reality can be a bit more complicated. Before you raise a glass, let’s clear up the myths, spot the hidden rules, and give you a quick cheat‑sheet to actually enjoy unlimited drinks without surprise charges.

What Unlimited Drinks Really Mean

Most resorts advertise “unlimited drinks” to mean you can order as many standard beverages as you like during your stay. In practice, this usually covers soft drinks, house wines, local beers, and a selection of basic cocktails. Premium spirits, top‑shelf liquors, and specialty mixers are often excluded or charged extra.

Another common limitation is the “6‑drink rule” that some resorts enforce per day. While it sounds odd, the rule is meant to curb binge drinking and reduce waste. The rule can differ by brand – a high‑end resort may allow more drinks, a budget property may stick to six.Also watch out for time windows. Some places only serve the unlimited bar during lunch and dinner, closing it late at night. If you love a nightcap, check whether the bar stays open after midnight or if you’ll need to pay a cover charge.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Drink Package

Ask before you order. When the server brings the menu, confirm which drinks are truly unlimited. A quick “Is this cocktail part of the all‑inclusive package?” can save an unexpected bill.

Stay within the daily limit. If the resort enforces a six‑drink cap, space out your drinks. Sip a cocktail at lunch, enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, then have a nightcap. You’ll hit the limit without feeling rushed.

Choose house brands. House wines and local beers are usually covered, while imported labels cost extra. Trying the local brew not only saves money but gives you a taste of the region.

Mind the happy hour. Some resorts run a happy hour where premium drinks drop into the all‑inclusive pool. Plan your cocktail hour around that slot for a fancy drink at no extra cost.

Watch the bar tabs. Even with unlimited drinks, some resorts keep a small service charge for certain services like bottle service or private cabanas. Knowing this ahead helps you avoid surprise fees.

Bring a refillable bottle. For water or soft drinks, ask for a reusable glass. It cuts down on waste and you’ll get free refills all day.

Finally, if you’re a heavy drinker and the limit feels too low, consider a hybrid approach: enjoy the unlimited portion for the first half of your stay, then treat yourself to a pricey cocktail night out. It balances cost and fun.

All‑inclusive resorts can truly offer a worry‑free drinking experience – as long as you know the fine print. Use the tips above, ask the staff, and you’ll be sipping your favorite drink with confidence, not a bill. Cheers to an easy, enjoyable stay!