Alcoholic Drinks Buying Guide: How to Choose Beer Multipacks and Ready-to-Drink Cocktails

Buying alcoholic drinks for a relaxed evening, barbecue or house party seems straightforward, but attractive packaging can hide important differences. A large beer multipack may contain less total drink than expected, while a small can of cocktail may contain more alcohol than a standard lager. Flavoured pre-mixed alcoholic drinks can also vary considerably in sugar, serving size and storage requirements.

This guide explains what to check before ordering drinks delivery in the UK, followed by practical recommendations for different occasions and shopping habits.

Common Buying Traps to Avoid

1. Confusing ABV with the amount of alcohol

ABV means alcohol by volume, but it does not tell you the total amount in the container by itself. A 250ml cocktail at 8% ABV can contain more alcohol than a 440ml lager at 5%.

For a more useful comparison, check the UK units per serving. For example:

• A 440ml can of 5% lager contains approximately 2.2 UK units.
• A 250ml can of 5% pre-mixed drink contains approximately 1.25 units.
• A 125ml cocktail at 14.9% ABV contains approximately 1.9 units.

The UK Chief Medical Officers advise adults not to regularly exceed 14 units per week. Treat this as a guide for planning consumption rather than a target.

2. Choosing a multipack based only on can or bottle count

“10-pack” and “18-pack” do not describe the total volume. A pack of 18 x 330ml bottles contains 5.94 litres, while 10 x 440ml cans contain 4.4 litres. Compare total volume, price per litre and units per pack before deciding which offers suitable value.

Pack size also affects storage and transport. Glass bottles may suit a garden gathering where presentation matters, while cans are generally easier to chill, carry and recycle.

3. Assuming every canned cocktail has the same flavour profile

Ready-to-drink cocktails range from dry, citrus-led vodka drinks to sweet fruit-flavoured drinks and creamy rum cocktails. Look at the ingredient list and nutrition panel rather than relying on colour or terms such as “refreshing”.

Some examples from the available range include:

• Citrus drinks using lemon or grapefruit juice and sweeteners.
• Gin and tonic cans containing sugar and quinine.
• Fruit-led vodka cocktails with higher carbohydrate and sugar values.
• Cream-based drinks containing milk, which may matter for guests with allergies.

Core Specifications to Check Before Ordering

ABV, serving size and UK units

Compare these three figures together. A higher ABV is not automatically unsuitable, but smaller servings can make the strength less obvious. Moth Margarita, for example, is a 125ml can at 14.9% ABV and contains 1.9 UK units. By contrast, a 250ml can of Gordon’s Gin & Tonic at 5% ABV contains 1.25 units.

For parties, calculate the approximate total units across the order and provide non-alcoholic options as well. Do not serve alcohol to anyone under 18, and never drink before driving or operating machinery. Alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy.

Ingredients, allergens and dietary suitability

Beer commonly contains barley and gluten, so check the allergen statement carefully. Corona Extra, San Miguel, Coors and Heineken all list barley or gluten-containing cereals. Some ready-to-drink products are marked suitable for vegetarians and vegans, but this should be confirmed on the individual product page.

Also check for:

• Sulphites in some fruit-based cocktails.
• Milk in creamy drinks such as piña colada products.
• Caffeine in cola-based or energy-style pre-mixed drinks.
• Sweeteners in low-sugar citrus cocktails.

Format, storage and serving method

Beer is generally stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and served chilled. Canned cocktails may also be ambient-stable before opening, but many are more enjoyable refrigerated or poured over ice.

Check whether the drink is intended to be consumed immediately after opening. Do not shake pressurised cans, and do not freeze them. For outdoor events, an insulated cool box or ice bucket can help keep single-serve drinks at a suitable temperature.

Our Top Recommendations by Shopper Profile

MATCH FOR: Budget-Conscious Starters

Coors 10 Pack - 3.4% 10x440ml

Why This Fits Their Persona: A 4.4-litre pack provides a practical quantity for casual home use, barbecues and informal gatherings without moving to a larger 18-pack.

How It Avoids the Trap

The 3.4% ABV and stated 1.5 units per 440ml can make strength easier to compare before purchase.

Key Advantage & Pros

Ten 440ml cans; suitable for vegetarians and vegans; ambient storage before opening.

MATCH FOR: Premium Quality Seekers

Corona Extra 4.5% 18 X 330ml

Why This Fits Their Persona: The 330ml glass-bottle format suits shoppers who want a recognisable lager for sharing and serving chilled at social occasions.

How It Avoids the Trap

The listing clearly states 18 x 330ml, 4.5% ABV and approximately 1.5 units per bottle, avoiding unclear pack comparisons.

Key Advantage & Pros

5.94 litres in total; glass bottles; vegetarian and vegan friendly; serve chilled.

MATCH FOR: Cocktail Occasion Planners

Moth Margarita 125ml (ABV 14.9%)

Why This Fits Their Persona: A small, pre-mixed tequila cocktail works for evenings when you want a measured serve without buying spirits, mixers and garnishes separately.

How It Avoids the Trap

Its 125ml serving and 1.9 UK units are stated clearly, helping shoppers avoid treating a high-ABV cocktail like a standard beer.

Key Advantage & Pros

Tequila, triple sec and lime ingredients; no preparation required; suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

MATCH FOR: Specific Use-Case/Heavy Users

Gordons Gin & Tonic RTD 6 Pack 6 x 250 ml

Why This Fits Their Persona: Six individual cans are convenient for a planned gathering, picnic or barbecue where consistent portions and simple serving matter.

How It Avoids the Trap

The pack lists 5% ABV and 1.25 units per can, so the total 7.5 units can be planned before opening.

Key Advantage & Pros

Six 250ml cans; gin and tonic format; no separate mixer or measuring required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I check when buying alcoholic drinks online in the UK?

Check the ABV, serving size, UK units, ingredients, allergens, pack volume and storage instructions. Confirm the retailer’s age-verification requirements and check delivery details before placing an order.

Are ready-to-drink cocktails stronger than beer?

Some are, but not all. A 5% canned cocktail may be similar in ABV to lager, while products such as 8% Margaritas or 14.9% cocktails contain more alcohol per serving. Always compare UK units rather than judging strength by can size.

How should alcoholic drinks be stored at home?

Keep unopened products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, unless the label specifies refrigeration. Chill beer and canned cocktails before serving, consume opened drinks promptly and keep all alcoholic drinks away from children.