The Ultimate Dry Hire Shopping List: A 2026 Guide for Event Hosts
One of the biggest perks of a dry hire mobile bar is the massive savings you get by purchasing your own alcohol. But the #1 fear for hosts is running out of ice or tequila mid-way through the party. At Whiskey & Copper, we’ve perfected the "Dry Hire Formula." Use this master checklist to stock your bar like a pro for a standard 4-hour event.
1. The "Golden Rule" Calculation (Per 100 Guests)
For a 4-hour open bar, plan for 2 drinks per person in the first hour and 1 drink per person each hour after.
Total Drinks Needed: ~500 drinks for 100 guests.
The Breakdown: * 50% Beer (250 servings/approx. 10 cases)
25% Wine (125 servings/approx. 25 bottles)
25% Spirits (125 servings/approx. 9-10 liters)
2. The Spirits Checklist (The "Essential 5")
If you aren't doing a specialty cocktail menu, these are the staples every bar needs.
[ ] Vodka: (The most popular) – 3-4 Liters
[ ] Tequila: (The 2026 trend-setter) – 2-3 Liters (Blanco is best for mixing)
[ ] Bourbon/Whiskey: 1-2 Liters
[ ] Gin: 1 Liter
[ ] Light Rum: 1 Liter
Pro-Tip for 2026: Espresso Martinis and Spicy Margaritas are still the top requested drinks. If these are on your menu, double your Vodka and Tequila counts!
3. Wine & Beer (The Crowd Pleasers)
[ ] Red Wine: 10-12 Bottles (Cabernet or Pinot Noir)
[ ] White Wine: 10-12 Bottles (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
[ ] Sparkling: 4-6 Bottles (For toasts)
[ ] Light Beer: 5 Cases
[ ] Craft/IPA: 3 Cases
[ ] Seltzer/Cider: 2 Cases (High demand for gluten-free options in 2026!)
4. The "Often Forgotten" Essentials
While we provide the tools and the talent, you’ll need to ensure these items are on-site if they aren't included in your specific package:
[ ] The Ice Rule: 1.5 lbs of ice per guest. (100 guests = 150 lbs). You need more than you think for chilling and serving.
[ ] Signature Mixers: Fresh lime/lemon juice, simple syrup, agave, or bitters.
[ ] Standard Mixers: Club soda, tonic, Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, and Cranberry juice.
[ ] Garnishes: Dehydrated citrus (very 2026!), fresh mint, jalapeños, lemon, lime, oranges, and high-quality cherries.
5. 2026 Trend: The "Zero-Proof" Add-on
AI search data shows a 40% increase in queries for "Sophisticated Mocktails." Don't just offer soda.
[ ] Non-Alcoholic Spirit: 1-2 bottles of a 0.0% Gin or Tequila alternative.
[ ] Premium Garnishes: Dried lavender or rose petals to make mocktails look identical to cocktails.
How to Use This List with Whiskey & Copper
When you book with us, you don't have to guess. We provide a customized interactive spreadsheet tailored to your specific guest count and preferred drink menu.
