Dry Hire vs Full-Service Mobile Bar: What's the Difference?

Dry hire means we deliver the trailer to your venue and hand over the keys, so to speak. You choose your own beverages, organise your own stock, and either pour it yourself or bring in your own staff. It suits people who already know their drinks supplier, want full control over the menu, and don't mind managing the logistics. Dry hire starts at $750 for a half day and $950 for a full day, excluding beverage stock. It may also be subject to travel distance.

One important note: if your event is licensed, you'll need staff with a valid RSA pouring the drinks. Self-service isn't an option at licensed events, so if you're going down the dry hire path for a public or ticketed event, factor in staffing.

Event packages are the other end of the spectrum. This is a fully licensed, professional bar service, our team handles setup, service, and liquor license compliance from start to finish. We tap into our network of breweries, distilleries and wineries across the country to build a beverage list that suits your event and your budget, with either a fixed-fee structure or a fixed-fee plus percentage-of-bar-profit model, whichever works better for your event.

So which one's right for you? If you're after a relaxed backyard party, a private property event, or you've already got trusted bar staff lined up, dry hire is the simpler and more cost-effective route. If you're planning a wedding, corporate function, or public event where you want to hand off the details and know it'll be handled properly, an event package takes that off your plate entirely.

Add-ons like experienced bar staff, and reusable cups are also available if you've gone the dry hire route but want a bit of extra support on the day.

Still weighing it up? Tell us about your event and we'll point you toward whichever option makes the most sense, rather than the one that makes us the most money.

Get in touch to talk through your options. Check availability HERE