Drink Limit: What Travelers Need to Know

When you book a stay at an all‑inclusive resort, a property that bundles lodging, meals and most activities into one price, the drink limit, the maximum number of alcoholic beverages included per guest per day often shows up in the fine print. In many Spanish destinations this is called the six drink rule, a cap of six drinks per day that many resorts enforce. The rule isn’t arbitrary; it stems from the Balearic alcohol law, regional legislation governing alcohol service in the Balearic Islands. In short, the drink limit encompasses legal restrictions, the all‑inclusive resort requires compliance with that limit, and the Balearic alcohol law influences how the limit is applied. Knowing these connections helps you avoid surprise charges and plan a smoother holiday.

Why the Limit Matters and Where It Applies

Understanding the drink limit is crucial because it directly affects your daily budget. If a resort caps drinks at six per person, any extra cocktail will be billed separately, sometimes at premium bar prices. The six‑drink rule is most common in the Balearic Islands—Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca—but you’ll also find similar caps in mainland Spain, especially in areas that follow the same regional guidelines. Some resorts publish the limit on their website, while others disclose it only at check‑in, so it’s worth asking ahead of time. The policy also shapes the type of beverage packages offered; many hotels bundle a “premium drinks” upgrade that lifts the limit or makes all drinks unlimited for an extra fee. Travelers who prefer a light sip or who stick to non‑alcoholic options often breeze through the rule, but heavy drinkers need to plan ahead or risk extra charges.

To keep the experience hassle‑free, follow a few simple steps: first, read the resort’s alcohol policy before you book; second, ask the front desk or reservation team how the six‑drink rule is enforced; third, decide whether you want to pay for a drinks‑upgrade or stay within the standard limit; and fourth, track your consumption each day to avoid accidental overages. If you’re traveling with a group, set a shared expectation so no one is surprised by the bill at checkout. Some savvy travelers also bring a reusable water bottle and alternate between alcoholic and non‑alcoholic drinks to stretch the allowance. With these tactics you’ll enjoy the freedom of an all‑inclusive stay without the shock of hidden fees. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into ownership of travel brands, boutique hotel features, glamping trends, and more—each piece adding a piece to the puzzle of planning a smart, carefree getaway.