All-Inclusive Drinks Limit: What You Really Get at Resorts

When you book an all-inclusive drinks limit, the maximum number of alcoholic beverages allowed per day at a resort under an all-inclusive plan. Also known as drink caps, it’s the unspoken rule behind those "unlimited" signs. Most resorts advertise unlimited drinks, but the truth? There’s almost always a cap—usually between 4 to 8 drinks per day. And it’s not just about quantity. Time of day, drink type, and even the bartender’s discretion can change what you actually get.

Think of all-inclusive resorts, vacation packages that bundle meals, drinks, and activities into one upfront price. Also known as all-inclusive hotels, they’re designed for convenience, not transparency. The real cost isn’t in the room—it’s in the fine print. Many resorts limit premium spirits, restrict access to certain bars, or only allow drinks during meal hours. Some even track your consumption with wristbands or digital logs. And if you’ve ever been told "that’s your limit for today," you’re not being rude—you’re hitting the system’s built-in ceiling.

unlimited alcohol, a marketing term used by resorts to attract guests, implying no restrictions on drinking. Also known as open bar, it rarely means what it sounds like. A study by a travel analyst firm found 78% of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean enforce daily drink limits, even if they don’t say so on their website. Beer and house wine? Usually fine. Top-shelf whiskey? Often excluded. Cocktails made with fresh fruit? Sometimes capped at two per person. And don’t assume you can drink all day—many resorts stop serving alcohol after 11 p.m., even if the pool is still open.

The drink limits, daily restrictions on alcohol consumption imposed by all-inclusive resorts to control costs and guest behavior aren’t just about money. They’re about safety, liability, and keeping the vibe calm. Resorts don’t want guests passed out by noon or throwing bottles at the pool. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Know your resort’s policy before you arrive. Ask about happy hour times, whether non-alcoholic drinks count toward your limit, and if you can upgrade your package. Some places let you pay a small fee to lift the cap for the day.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just theory—it’s real stories from travelers who hit the limit, got charged extra, or figured out how to stretch their drinks without breaking the rules. You’ll learn how to spot the resorts that truly deliver on their promises, which ones hide their limits in small print, and how to enjoy your vacation without the hangover—or the surprise bill.