All-Inclusive Drinks Tip: How to Get the Most Out of Your Resort Stay

When you book an all-inclusive resort, a vacation package where meals, drinks, and often activities are covered in one upfront price. Also known as all-inclusive vacation, it sounds like a no-brainer—until you realize not all drinks are created equal. The big promise? Unlimited drinks. But here’s the catch: the cheapest all-inclusive deals often limit you to basic house brands, while premium spirits, imported beers, and specialty cocktails cost extra—or aren’t included at all. That’s where the real all-inclusive drinks tip comes in: know what’s really covered before you pay.

Many travelers assume "all-inclusive" means every drink, anytime. But resorts often separate drinks into tiers: local beer and soda? Included. Premium whiskey or a mojito with fresh mint? That’s a separate charge. Some places even charge for ice or bottled water. It’s not fraud—it’s a business model. Resorts make more money on drinks than rooms, so they design packages to upsell. If you’re a wine lover or cocktail enthusiast, you’re better off choosing a higher-tier plan or booking a resort known for true inclusivity, like those in Mexico’s Riviera Maya or the Caribbean’s all-inclusive hotspots. Always ask: What’s actually in the package? Get it in writing. A resort in Jamaica might include rum, but not the top-shelf brands. A resort in Spain might offer local wine but charge for sparkling water.

Another thing most people miss: drink hours. Some resorts only serve alcohol between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. Others cut off cocktails after dinner. And don’t assume you can take drinks to your room or the beach—some places restrict that too. If you’re planning sunset cocktails by the pool, check if the pool bar even serves after 7 p.m. And if you’re traveling with kids, remember: non-alcoholic drinks aren’t always free either. Some resorts charge for juice, smoothies, or even coffee in the morning. That’s why reading the fine print matters more than the price tag.

Want to stretch your budget? Skip the resort’s branded cocktails. Order a simple gin and tonic with local gin instead of the fancy imported one. Stick to draft beer instead of bottled. Bring your own refillable water bottle—many places offer filtered water stations. And if you’re staying longer than a week, consider switching resorts mid-trip. One resort might have great drinks but lousy food. Another might have terrible service but unlimited premium spirits. Compare, swap, and save.

There’s no magic trick to getting free drinks at an all-inclusive resort. But there are smart ways to avoid paying more than you should. The best travelers don’t just book the cheapest package—they pick the one that matches their habits. If you drink two cocktails a day, pay extra for the premium plan. If you only have one beer in the evening, stick with the basic tier. It’s not about what’s included—it’s about what you’ll actually use.

Below, you’ll find real reviews and cost breakdowns from people who’ve been there. We’ve pulled together what works, what doesn’t, and which resorts actually deliver on their drink promises. No fluff. Just facts from travelers who’ve been burned—and those who got it right.