Mobile cocktail bar hire in 2025: Costs & considerations
Discover the true cost of hiring a mobile cocktail bar in 2025 and the top factors affecting price.
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Whether you’re looking to add some flair to your wedding, excitement to a corporate event or a fun twist to a birthday bash, mobile cocktail bars are perfect for any occasion. But how much does a mobile bar cost to hire and what exactly are you paying for? Read on to find out!
What factors affect the cost of hiring a mobile cocktail bar?
From guest numbers to stylish extras, here is a rundown of key things influencing the price of hiring a mobile cocktail van.
Number of guests
The bigger the crowd, the more drinks, staff, and stock you’ll need. Cocktail bars often work on a per-person basis, so having 30 guests vs. 100+ can make a big difference in overall price. So before making your decision, think about how many guests will likely order cocktails.
Cocktail complexity
A short menu with a few crowd-pleasers (think mojitos, espresso martinis, or pornstar martinis) is often more affordable than a fully customised list. Add in premium spirits, fresh fruit garnishes, or smoke-and-flame theatrics, and you’ll see the price climb.
Bar style and setup
Not all mobile bars are created equal. A simple rustic wooden bar will be more budget-friendly than a boujee LED-lit cocktail truck or a converted horsebox with themed decor. Think about what fits your vibe – and your venue.
Event duration
Longer events mean more staff hours, more drinks, and often more stock. Most suppliers offer packages based on 3-4 hours of service, but if you want them around all day and night, you’ll likely pay more.
Location
If your venue is off the beaten track, you may be charged extra for travel and delivery. Many suppliers include travel within a certain radius, so it’s worth checking out before you book.
Extras
Looking for personalised menus or branded cups with your names on? How about an interactive masterclass with expert mixologists to keep guests entertained? These little touches can make your event extra special – but they’ll also add to the price.
How much does it cost to hire a mobile cocktail bar?
From cash bars to prepaid cocktail packages and premium open bars, the price to hire a mobile cocktail bar can vary depending on the type of hire. Typically, the cost to hire looks something like this:
| Hire type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Cash bar | Free or low deposit of £50–£200 (with minimum spend) |
| Prepaid cocktail packages (2–3 drinks each) | £12–£25 per guest |
| Open bar (3–4 hours) | £20–£70 per guest |
No matter which hire type works best for you, most options include the essentials:
- Professional bar structure
- Trained mixologists
- Cocktail-making equipment
- Basic glassware
- Set up and pack down
- Travel within a set area
Extras like bespoke cocktails, flair bartending, or themed decorations are usually charged separately.
To help you make the best choice for your event, here is a breakdown of the different hire types and costs:
Cash bar
A cash bar payment model requires guests to pay for their own drinks – just like at a regular bar. Most mobile cocktail bars and vans operate in this way, often asking for a deposit with a minimum spend to make it worthwhile. Higher deposits are often fully refundable once the bar spend exceeds a certain amount.
Prepaid packages
As straightforward as it sounds, prepaid packages usually demand an upfront payment for a set number of drinks per guest (e.g. two or three cocktails per guest). This is a great option for those looking to treat themselves and their guests without overspending.
Open bar
For those looking to splash the cash, an open bar can be a fab and flexible option. You cover the full cost of drinks for your guests – a popular choice for weddings and private parties. This is usually charged per person for a set number of hours (usually 3–4 hours). Costs can vary widely from £20 to £70, depending on the complexity of your cocktails and the ingredients needed. The more premium, the higher the cost!
Creative concoctions for your event
While the price of hiring a mobile can vary, one thing is certain – you and your guests can enjoy mouth-watering concoctions expertly crafted by talented mixologists. To find the perfect fit for your event, simply complete our quick form to connect with experienced cocktail bar suppliers near you.
