Walk through the aisles of any Payless Liquors store in Indiana, and you’ll notice something that wasn’t there a few years ago: shelves packed with colorful, ready-to-drink canned cocktails. From classic margaritas to espresso martinis and bourbon smash varieties, canned cocktails have exploded in popularity. But what’s behind the buzz — and are they really worth stocking up on?

Let’s break it down.

The Rise of Canned Cocktails

Canned cocktails have taken the beverage world by storm over the last few years, and the trend shows no signs of slowing in 2025. Originally born out of convenience, these ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages have evolved into a legitimate category with premium options, creative flavor combinations, and even craft cocktail collaborations.

In fact, this market grew by over 20% last year alone, as more people look for bar-quality drinks without the hassle of mixing ingredients at home.

Why People Love Canned Cocktails

So, what makes them canned cocktails such a hit? Here are the main reasons Indiana shoppers (and beyond) are reaching for them:

1. Convenience: No shaker, no measuring, no mess. They make it easy to enjoy a well-balanced drink right out of the fridge or cooler.

2. Portability: Perfect for tailgates, lake days, backyard BBQs, and concerts. If you’re headed to the Indy 500 or a summer gathering, a 4-pack of these travels better than a bag of bottles.

3. Variety: From vodka sodas to palomas and spiked lemonades, there’s a flavor for every palate. New flavors drop frequently, keeping things exciting for adventurous drinkers.

4. Quality: The early days of canned cocktails left something to be desired. But today’s options often use real spirits, fresh juices, and natural flavors — making them taste just as good as many bar-made drinks.

Are Canned Cocktails Worth It?

Now, for the big question: Are canned cocktails worth your hard-earned dollars? Here’s what to consider:

Pros:

• Time-Saver: If you want a quick, consistent cocktail without shopping for mixers, canned cocktails are your best friend.
• Perfect Portions: No more overpouring or weak drinks — each can is precisely balanced.
• Great for Groups: Hosting a party? Offering a variety of canned cocktails lets guests pick their favorite without needing a personal bartender.

Cons:

• Price Per Drink: They can be pricier per serving than mixing your own, especially for larger gatherings.
• Limited Customization: You can’t tweak the sweetness or spirit level the way you could when mixing at home.
• Alcohol Content: Some are lighter (around 5% ABV like a beer), while others are stronger (8-12%). Always check the label to match your preference.

Best-Selling Canned Cocktails at Payless Liquors

At Payless Liquors, we’ve seen firsthand which canned cocktails our Indiana customers keep coming back for. Some of the top-sellers include:

• High Noon Sun Sips (vodka + real fruit juice)
• Cutwater Spirits (famous for their tequila margarita and vodka mule)
• BuzzBallz (fun, potent, and portable)
• On The Rocks (premium, bar-quality classics like Old Fashioneds and Cosmos)

And with new brands hitting our shelves regularly, there’s always something fresh to try.

Final Verdict: Worth a Try

If you love cocktails but don’t always want the effort of mixing, these canned beverages are definitely worth exploring. They deliver convenience, variety, and surprising quality in a grab-and-go package. For your next lake trip, backyard party, or casual night in, consider adding a few 4-packs to your cart at Payless Liquors.

Whether you’re an Indiana bourbon fan looking to try a bourbon smash in a can or a seltzer drinker ready to level up to real spirits, the world of rtd cocktails offers something for everyone.

Ready to discover your new favorite? Stop by your local Payless Liquors and check out our expanding selection of canned cocktails today!