All-Inclusive Drinks: What’s Really Included and Where to Avoid the Trap

When you book an all-inclusive drinks, a vacation package that covers meals, snacks, and beverages without extra charges. Also known as unlimited beverage plans, it’s marketed as the easy way to relax—no counting coins, no checking prices. But here’s the catch: many resorts that promise unlimited drinks actually put strict limits on what counts as "all-inclusive."

Most all-inclusive resorts, vacation properties that bundle accommodation, food, and drinks into one upfront price. Also known as all-inclusive hotels, they’re common in the Caribbean and Mexico, but rare in the UK and US. Why? Labor costs, tipping culture, and profit models make them hard to sustain here. Even in places where they exist, the drinks aren’t always what you think. Premium spirits, imported beers, and specialty cocktails often cost extra. Some resorts cap you at six drinks per day—yes, really. Others limit you to certain hours, or only serve drinks at the bar, not your room. Then there’s the drink limits, rules that restrict how many alcoholic beverages you can get in a day. Also known as beverage allowances, these aren’t always clearly posted. You might think you’re sipping freely, until the bartender says, "That’s your sixth." And it’s only 2 p.m.

It’s not just about quantity—it’s about quality. Many resorts serve basic house brands. If you’re used to craft cocktails or local wines, you’ll notice the difference. And don’t assume "all-inclusive" means you can grab a drink anytime. Some places only serve alcohol during meal hours, or lock up the bar after sunset. Others charge for ice, straws, or even non-alcoholic options like soda or juice if they’re not on the approved list. The real cost? Time spent hunting down what’s included, and the disappointment when your "unlimited" bottle of rum turns out to be a cheap local blend.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of resorts. It’s the truth behind the marketing. You’ll see how some places really do let you drink all day, while others hide their rules in fine print. You’ll learn why Hawaii doesn’t do all-inclusive like the Caribbean, and why booking through a travel agent might get you more than you’d find online. There’s also the hidden side: what happens to all that leftover alcohol, and why some resorts waste more than they serve. This isn’t about hype. It’s about knowing what you’re actually paying for—so you don’t end up thirsty, frustrated, or overcharged on your next getaway.