Drink Policies Every Traveller Should Know
Ever booked a holiday only to discover you can’t order a drink where you expected? Knowing the rules around alcohol can save you embarrassment and extra costs. Below we break down the most common drink policies you’ll meet on a trip – from hotels and hostels to flights and overseas venues – and give you quick ways to stay on the right side of the law.
Hotel and Accommodation Rules
Most hotels in the UK allow guests to order alcohol at the bar or have a bottle in their room. However, boutique B&Bs and budget hostels often have stricter limits. Some will only let you bring a single bottle of wine, while others ban alcohol in shared lounges altogether. Before you arrive, check the property’s FAQ or call the front desk. If they say "no drinks in rooms," plan to enjoy your wine at a nearby pub instead of trying to sneak it into your room.
When you’re staying in an Airbnb, the host’s house rules are your guide. Look for a "drinks allowed" tick box or a specific note about parties. Ignoring these can lead to a penalty fee or a bad review, which hurts future bookings.
Airline and Transport Guidelines
Airlines serve alcohol on most long‑haul flights, but there are limits. In the UK, crew can’t serve alcohol to passengers under 18, and many carriers stop serving after a certain hour of the flight. If you’re flying with a low‑cost carrier, you might have to buy drinks from a vending machine before you board – those aren’t covered by the airline’s policy.
On trains and coaches, the rules vary by operator. Some high‑speed services allow passengers to bring a bottle of wine for personal consumption, while others ban alcohol altogether after a certain time of day. A quick glance at the operator’s website or a mention in your ticket details will clue you in.
International Drink Laws
Every country has its own drinking age and public consumption rules. In many European destinations, you can sip a glass of wine in a park, but in places like the UAE, any public alcohol consumption is illegal unless you’re in a licensed hotel bar. If you’re heading to Spain, bring a reusable bottle to fill up at the tap – it’s cheap and legal in most regions.
When you’re not sure, stick to licensed venues. Restaurants, bars and clubs have the proper licences and will guide you through local etiquette. Ask the staff if you’re unsure about a local custom – most love sharing a tip.
By checking the drink policies of your accommodation, transport and destination ahead of time, you avoid surprises and keep your holiday stress‑free. Keep these quick checks on your travel checklist and enjoy your drinks responsibly wherever you go.
