Best drink dispensers for picnics and parties, tried and tested 2024
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As we approach the hosting season, thoughts turn to the little details that set a party apart from all the other shindigs on the calendar.
Great seating, decent lighting and a contingency plan in case of bad weather are at the top of the list, after delicious grub and a cracking soundtrack. The other thing to consider? Drinks.
Whether you’re thinking soft drinks or fresh juice for a kids' party or perhaps something with a little more kick for a neighbourhood BBQ, one of the last things you’ll want to do is run back and forth to the kitchen on refill duty. A drinks dispenser is a sound investment for allowing guests to serve themselves and with the right size, should keep your guests watered for the duration of the event.
Drinks dispensers come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few universal things to consider when shopping for one.
Size is one of the most important factors, not only to quench the partygoers in question but also in choosing one that’s easy to store once the bash is over.
Then, consider material. A glass dispenser will let you see at a glance if you’re running low, but it won’t be as good at keeping things cool as an enamel design might. But then, this may not matter if you’re providing ice separately or don’t want certain drinks to be served chilled.
Most drinks dispensers come with a wide lid quick refills and a tap for easy self-service but some also come with a stand to set on the tabletop. The stand gives the dispenser extra clearance, making it more comfortable for thirsty guests to refill.
If you’re searching for a drinks dispenser, we’ve done the hard work for you below. Our edit spans chic grown-up designs to adorable fruit-themed options for kids.
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Kilner 5 Litre Clip Top Drinks Dispenser
Capacity: 5L
The old-school glass jar gets a drink dispensing twist with the addition of a tap to funnel beverages into a cup. The 5-litre design features a clip-top lid for easy to refilling or slipping in fresh slices of fruit into the communal Pimm’s. Place it on a stand or at the lip of the table so there’s enough clearance to make filling cups easier.
Minnico Dispensers Ceramic Water Dispenser (Crock) with Metal Tap
Capacity: 5L
You’ll have no trouble keeping your hydration levels in check with this handmade ceramic dispenser, which comes with a metal tap to assist in filling your cup. Both the main reservoir and tap colours can be customised, and a stand is available to purchase for an additional fee. The porcelain egg is finished with a glossy glaze, adding to the luxe feel.
Asda Red Strawberry Drinks Dispenser
Capacity: 550ml
Supermarket-own ranges are an excellent place to plunder party decor, especially if you’re on a budget. Cheap but oh-so cheerful, this plastic dispenser will add a juicy burst of colour to any gathering, but beware: at just 550ml, it’s best reserved for kids or WFH use only.
Etta Avenue Lareau 1.8L Beverage Dispenser
Capacity: 1.8L
Illustrating that a drink dispenser can, in fact, be elegant is this faceted Etta Avenue design. The graceful look is fitted with an airtight dome lid and twist tap for quick and easy filling when thirst comes calling. It’s made from textured glass and weighs 3kg, which means it can handle light, accidental knocks - especially when it’s full.
M&S Collection Rainbow Picnic Drinks Dispenser, One Size, Multi
Capacity: 4.3L
Take a humble park picnic to new heights with this cheerful drinks dispenser, made from plastic with a rainbow-hue finish. The main compartment can hold up to 4.3-litres, making it a great option for parties and mid-sized dos.
Drinkstuff White Enamel Bucket Large Drinks Dispenser with Stand
Capacity: 17.5L
Crafted from enamel-coated steel, this dispenser is the perfect thing to help you water a crowd - it can hold 17.5L! It will slow the refill rate while dispensing cool drinks to your friends and family through the tap. The sturdy design is locked with a clip top and comes with its own iron stand to make drinks even easier to pour.
Trendi 2 X 4L Glass Water Dispenser with Metal Wire Stand
Capacity: 8L
For hosts who like to give their guests plenty of choice, this twin dispenser is ideal. Each one can hold up to 4L, both sitting side-by-side on a metal stand for ease of display and use. Simply unscrew the metal lids and refill when you’re running low and let friends and family help themselves.
Mackenzie-Childs Courtly Check Beverage Hostess
Capacity: 13.5L
Make your water point a conversation starter with Mackenzie-Childs’ checked design. The tank holds a generous 13.5L (or three gallons) and is made with enamel and glass. It’s pricey but if you host a lot it’s one of those details that sets your bashes apart from the crowd.
Argos 4 Bottle Revolving Optic Stand
Capacity: up to a litre each
Spare yourself cocktail duties and allow friends and family to make their own drinks with help from Argos’s bottle stand. Housing four one-litre bottles, each spirit comes with its own push tap, making it easy to determine measures. Comes with a one-year manufacturer’s guarantee.
TAOLE Wine Tote with Drink Dispenser
Capacity: 1.5L
Our left-field contender for this edit allows you to take the party anywhere. Carry wine in a concealed pocket of this tote and take beach days and picnics up a level. Available in red or blue stripe, the thick rope handles make it easier to cart about.