Several years ago, we were planning our honeymoon and wondering if it was worth it to go to an all-inclusive resort. At the time we had a tighter budget and it just didn’t make sense. About 5 years later we had our first all-inclusive experience and have had dozens since and understand the value in an all-inclusive resort.
Beyond all the things that are included in the price of your all-inclusive resorts is the stress-free, relaxing experience you get not having to worry about the cost of anything once you are on the resort. We saved a ton of time in research and planning, and once you get there we just went with the flow. It is wonderful not to have to take out your wallet every time you eat or do an activity.
What is included at an all-inclusive resort?
What is included in an all-inclusive resort varies widely depending on which resort or package you’re considering for your all-inclusive vacation. What usually comes with an all-inclusive resort is your accommodations, meals, and beverages, all for one price.
When you book an all-inclusive vacation, you can usually also expect unlimited access to some of the resort’s amenities. Plus, most all-inclusive resorts offer a variety of complimentary activities and entertainment options. Some all-inclusive packages cover tips and taxes as well, and many provide complimentary airport transfers.
Why do people like all-inclusive vacations?
People like all-inclusive resorts and packages for a variety of reasons. One is that they provide a stress-free experience. Another is that all-inclusive resorts can save money.
And a third is that people like to indulge themselves on vacation; they may have a few more cocktails than they would at home, or order dessert at every meal. Also, many people want to participate in a variety of activities on their vacation. An all-inclusive resort allows them to do, eat, and drink as much as they want without having to pay for each thing separately.
Additionally, when you book an all-inclusive vacation, you know the total price upfront. You don’t have to worry about how much it’s costing you each day and there are no unexpected bills waiting for you at the end of your trip.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it for first-time travelers?
If you are taking your first trip to a destination, or are traveling abroad for the first time, an all-inclusive package can be an easy alternative to figuring everything out on your own. You won’t have to worry about finding a hotel plus restaurants plus transportation plus activities. An all-inclusive resort can be a great introduction to a new location.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it for budget travelers?
While there are certainly upscale all-inclusive resorts whose rates are much higher than you might pay elsewhere, most all-inclusive resorts can be a great value. When everything is included in the price, you can save money on your vacation, making all-inclusives worth it for budget travelers.
Many resorts can also help you get deals on your airfare to and from the destination, and most include complimentary airport transfers.
However, it’s important to remember that not all all-inclusive resorts are the same. Different ones offer different types of amenities and services. Those that have more amenities and services will usually be more expensive. Some all inclusives may also have higher prices because of where they’re located.
It’s important to do your research before you book so that you know what to expect. When comparing resorts, make sure you pay attention to what is included there and what’s not—a resort that offers a lower rate may also have fewer inclusions, making your total cost the same or more as a higher-priced resort with more inclusions.
If something is really important to you, like unlimited scuba diving or premium liquor, make sure it’s in the all-inclusive package you’re considering.
Overeall, I would recommend an all-inclusive resort for destinations like Mexico and the Dominican Republic if you are a budget traveler.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it for travelers who want to relax?
Yes, all-inclusives are worth it for travelers who just want to relax on their honeymoon or vacation. When you stay at an all-inclusive resort, all meals and beverages are usually already paid for, as are many onsite activities. You won’t have to carry around cash or credit cards, and you won’t have to keep track of your daily expenses. You’re free to just enjoy all that the resort has to offer.
Tip: Make sure you know what is not included at your all-inclusive resort. This can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Are all-inclusives worth it for families?
Families wondering if all-inclusive resorts are worth should know their kids are going to love it! Since all meals are included (and these resorts often have buffet-style restaurants), your children can eat as much as they want and you won’t have to worry about the cost.
All-inclusives are also great options for families because they include plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. If you’re a tired parent looking to wear out your children, an all-inclusive resort can be perfect!
In fact, many all-inclusive resorts cater to families and have tons of activities specifically for kids. This means you won’t have to entertain your children the whole time. All-inclusives may have an onsite kids’ camp or nanny program where you can drop your children off and enjoy some alone time. They may also have adult-only areas or restaurants so you can make the most of your free time together.
After your trip, your kids are sure to remember the unlimited food and drinks.
Are all-inclusives worth it for couples?
The answer to this question depends on what type of couples’ trip you’re planning. If you just want to relax at a beach and enjoy the resort activities, then absolutely, an all-inclusive resort is worth it for couples. But if you want to explore your destination, do lots of offsite activities, and eat at local restaurants, it may not be.
If the trip is your honeymoon, an all-inclusive resort may be worth it just for the stress-free factor. You’ve made so many decisions for your wedding, it can be wonderful not to have to make any on your honeymoon.
Also, if you’re looking for a romantic atmosphere, you can book an adult-only all-inclusive resort for the perfect ambiance.
All-inclusives can be a great choice for couples who have different interests, since they offer so many different types of activities. For example, if one of you loves to scuba dive and the other likes to golf, you could book an all-inclusive resort that offers both.
Are all-inclusives worth it for travelers interested in cultural experiences?
This is one type of travel where it may not make financial sense to stay at an all-inclusive resort. If you plan to spend most of your time exploring the destination and not at the resort, you won’t be able to take advantage of everything an all-inclusive offers.
However, most all-inclusives offer area excursions like tours of local historic and cultural sites, as well as complimentary activities like cooking classes for the local cuisine. Depending on what you want to do, an all-inclusive resort may still be a good option.
Are all-inclusives worth it for non-drinkers?
All-inclusives can be worth it for non-drinkers. While many people are drawn to all-inclusive resorts because they offer unlimited alcoholic drinks, they also offer unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.
More and more people are choosing to not drink and the bartenders at all-inclusive resorts. The
If you enjoy beverages other than tap water, such as sparkling water or sodas, buying these can really add up over several days—especially if you’re vacationing somewhere like a Caribbean island where drinks are imported.
Staying at an all-inclusive resort can help you save money whether or not you drink alcohol.
Are all-inclusive resorts worth it in general?
For many travelers, it can be totally worth it to stay at an all-inclusive resort, especially if you follow some tips to make the most of your time there.
How do you take advantage of all-inclusive resorts? Here are our suggestions:
Top tips for making the most of an all-inclusive vacation
Research the resort and make sure its location, ambiance, and typical guest profile match up with what you want before you book. You should be able to get a good feel for the resort’s location, atmosphere, and amenities from its website, so you can ensure you’re staying somewhere you’ll enjoy.
It’s harder to figure out what the other guests will be like, but that can really affect how your vacation goes. If you’re looking for a luxurious romantic retreat, you don’t want to be surrounded by lots of lively children. If you seek quiet seclusion, you may not enjoy a resort that’s filled with extreme parties. Reading reviews can give you an idea of the types of guests who frequent that resort.
Make sure you know what isn’t included at that resort, then estimate any additional costs. This way you won’t get blindsided by extra fees, and you can make sure the resort still makes financial sense. Many all-inclusive resorts charge for premium liquor or wine, certain special meals or dining options, spa treatments, activities like golf, and extras like beach cabanas or private dinners.
Learn the policies and procedures at your all-inclusive resort so you can make the most of your stay. For instance, there may be a certain procedure or time for making restaurant reservations. At resorts that offer multiple dining options, some of the more popular restaurants tend to book up quickly and you don’t want to miss out.
Also, check the hours of operation for restaurants and facilities to make sure you don’t try to go somewhere when it’s closed.
Maximize your usage of all the amenities the resort offers. Be sure to ask a staff member if you’re not sure which amenities are included—then take advantage of as many as you can!
In addition to water sports and land sports, lots of all-inclusive resorts have interesting free activities like cooking classes, dance classes, yoga, or water sports instruction. It’s a great way to try something new and bring an extra level of fun to your vacation.
Find out if you also have access to any other resorts. Many all-inclusive resorts have multiple locations in one area, and guests can enjoy the restaurants, bars, beaches, and activities at all of them (often via a free shuttle). This can double or triple your options!
If you’re looking for a relaxing romantic escape where you don’t have to worry about planning meals or activities, an all-inclusive resort can be a perfect choice. With everything taken care of for you, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy your vacation. Keep these tips in mind when you’re booking your all-inclusive vacation, and you’re sure to have a great time.
What do you think? Are you going to book an all-inclusive resort for your next romantic getaway?
Ashley has always loved to explore new places and indulges her passion for travel whenever she can. She has been to 12 countries and 32 states so far.
Ashley has worked as a freelance writer for more than 20 years, specializing in the areas of travel, marketing, personal development, and the pursuit of happiness.
Favorite destinations include Sorrento and Capri, Italy; Haarlem, Netherlands; Paris; Sydney and K’gari, Australia; Rotorua and Waiheke Island, New Zealand; the American West; Palm Beach; the Florida Keys; and her hometown of New Orleans. Ashley has a goal of visiting every state plus many more international destinations.