How Much Does a Mobile Bar Cost in 2025-2026? Full Breakdown & What Affects the Price

Hiring a mobile bar has become one of the most popular ways to elevate weddings, parties and corporate events across the UK—but with so many packages and pricing structures, it can be hard to know what good value looks like.

If you’re planning an event in 2025 and 2026, this guide breaks down exactly how much a mobile bar costs, what affects the price, and how to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Whether you’re hosting 50 guests or 300, this article will help you budget with confidence.

💷 Average Mobile Bar Costs in the UK (2025-2026)

While prices vary based on location and package type, here are the typical ranges for mobile bars

:

• Dry Hire Bar (you supply the drinks)

£250 – £650Includes the bar unit, setup, staff optional.

• Cash Bar (guests pay per drink)

£0 – £350Often a small booking fee or deposit. Some companies require a minimum spend—but not us. We offer no minimum spend to keep things simple.

• Prepaid or Open Bar Package

£18 – £35+ per personCovers unlimited service for a set period, usually 4–5 hours.

• Hybrid “Part-Prepaid” Package

£300 – £1,000 upfront, then guests buy additional drinks.Great for balancing cost and guest experience.

These are general UK-wide figures—South East prices tend to sit slightly higher due to demand, staffing and travel.

🍸 What Affects the Cost of a Mobile Bar?

Every event is different, which is why bar prices can vary. Here’s what has the biggest impact:

1. Type of Bar Package

Dry hire, cash bar, open bar and hybrid packages all come with different pricing structures.Tip: If you want full control over your budget, a prepaid package makes planning easy.

2. Number of Guests

The more people you have, the more stock, glassware, staffing and prep time is required.For example:

• Under 60 guests = lower staffing and stock costs

• 100+ guests = extra bartenders, stock reserves, faster service requirements

  
  

3. Duration of Service

Most events run for 4–5 hours, but extending service increases staffing and stock requirements.

4. Drinks Selection

Premium spirits, cocktails, draught beer and speciality options raise the overall cost.If your crowd loves cocktails, you’ll want a package that includes quick service solutions.

5. Location & Travel

Remote locations, tight access or long travel times can add to the cost depending on your provider.

6. Equipment & Setup

A quality mobile bar will include:

• Professional bar frontage

• Fridge/freezer units

• Glassware or eco cups

• Cocktail equipment

• Ice supply

• Lighting

• Waste management

High-end setups cost more, but they deliver a polished experience.

🍹 Why Some Companies Charge Minimum Spend (And Why We Don’t)

Many mobile bar suppliers require a minimum spend guarantee to protect their profit—especially for smaller events.

However, at South East Bar Hire, we believe in transparent, fair pricing, which means:

✅ No minimum spend✅ No surprises on the night✅ Clear packages tailored to your event size

This makes budgeting far simpler and avoids the awkward pressure of meeting bar targets.

🎉 How to Get the Best Value from Your Mobile Bar in 2025-2026

Here’s how to make sure you're maximising your budget:

✔ Choose a company offering flexible packages

You shouldn’t be forced into a one-size-fits-all solution.

✔ Check what’s actually included

Glassware, ice, staffing and setup fees can quickly add up.

✔ Avoid ultra-cheap suppliers

Companies charging £2.50 per spirit mixer and £5 a pint are usually operating below cost or cutting corners. Quality stock and trained staff cost more but deliver a vastly better experience.

✔ Think about your crowd

Cocktail lovers? Beer drinkers? Light drinkers?Choosing the right package prevents overspending.

💡 Final Thoughts: What Should You Expect to Pay?

Most of our clients spend between:

• £0–£350 for a cash bar

• £20–£50 per person for an unlimited open bar

• £300–£800 for dry hire depending on guest numbers

  
  

A brilliant bar experience should feel seamless, stylish and stress-free—and with the right provider, it absolutely will.

If you’d like a tailored quote for your event in Kent or the South East, just let me know and I can create a polished enquiry response or landing page too.