Brits planning vacations to Spain will face an additional charge when purchasing drinks at bars, restaurants, and supermarkets. Enjoying a drink in the Spanish sun or stocking up on beverages for a holiday rental will soon cost more, as Spain is set to implement a new bottle deposit system. Customers will incur an extra fee, approximately 10 cents, for each bottled or canned drink bought, applicable at the point of sale.
This measure is not a tax but a refundable deposit that customers can reclaim by returning the empty containers. The deposit will be clearly displayed on the bill and can be redeemed by returning the bottles or cans either to the original seller or authorized collection machines. These machines, spread across Spain, will facilitate the return process by scanning barcodes and automatically refunding the deposit amount in cash or store vouchers.
Supermarkets and retailers will be obligated to accept returns of plastic, glass, or aluminum containers, irrespective of where they were purchased. Bars and restaurants will also adapt their systems to accommodate the bottle deposit. These regulations are scheduled to take effect from November 2026, with the aim of promoting recycling efforts and reducing environmental waste, aligning with initiatives in other European countries such as Denmark, Germany, and Norway.
Meanwhile, Spanish airports are addressing border control challenges for British travelers following the implementation of the EU’s Entry/Exit System. Efforts are being made to alleviate congestion and reduce waiting times, including potential redirection of specific passenger groups to expedite the process and coordination with ground staff to manage flight arrivals more effectively.
These adjustments are aimed at minimizing disruptions for Brits traveling to popular Spanish destinations, offering smoother experiences amidst evolving travel procedures.
