All-Inclusive resort vacations offer a one-stop vacation dream where everything is taken care of, from meals to activities. In this guide, we’ll explore what all-inclusive resorts are, top tips for all-inclusive resorts for first-time travelers, and how to make the most of your all-inclusive stay.
All-inclusive resorts offer packages that includes accommodations, meals, drinks, and various activities. This means you can leave your wallet in the room and focus on enjoying your vacation. But be sure to plan & pack accordingly, read the fine print before, and ensure you take advantage of everything your resort package price includes with our tips for all-inclusive resorts!
Research Before Booking:
- Look for resorts in your destination location that offer a wide range of amenities and activities that suit your preferences. Some resorts have more restaurant options than others, while some may include outdoor activities/experiences in your package price. Be sure to compare!
- Read reviews from other guests to get an idea of the quality of services and facilities. Even high star resorts may have reviews that can be alarming. Be sure to compare reviews and ratings between resorts!
- Book through a reputable source! We have found that Booking.com typically has a lower booking price than Expedia, and has always allowed us a seamless check in process at the resort.
- If you’re considering Playa Del Carmen for your all-inclusive stay, get all the best tips for all-inclusive resorts with our Complete Playa Del Carmen Guide here!
Check Inclusions:
- Understand what is included in the all-inclusive package that you choose. This may vary from resort to resort. Compare resorts and amenities offered for booking price. Some resorts even include spa options!
- Ensure that meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment are part of the package and be sure to account for all people (including children) in your party before booking.
- Traveling with kids? Be sure to read up on top tips for picking a resort that’s kid-friendly on our guide: “How to Choose the Right Kid-Friendly Resort“!
Pack Accordingly:
- When it comes to tips for all-inclusive resorts, packing is key to having a worry-free vacation! Pack appropriate clothing for the destination and the activities you plan to engage in, including various swimwear and comfortable shoes! (Pro Tips for all-inclusive resorts – Be sure to check your resort for what’s offered for sale on-site, in case you forget something!)
- If the resort has special restaurants, be sure to check dress code and pack at least one pair of long pants and closed toed shoes! Our resort stays in the past have typically had at least one restaurant with a dress code.
- Be sure to check out “What to Pack For An All Inclusive Resort”, an extensive packing checklist for all of your all-inclusive packing needs!
- Shop our online store for all of your travel essential tips for all-inclusive resorts stay!
Explore Local Cuisine
- Be sure to try all of the restaurants at your all-inclusive! Most offer a wide variety of food options. Get the most out of your all-inclusive stay by trying all of the food options included in your package price!
- Pro tips for all-inclusive resorts: Don’t be afraid to try the restaurant that may NOT be included in your price. Sometimes these restaurants offer a higher quality food experience and have often ended up being one of our favorites!
Book Reservations Ahead of Time
- Be sure to make reservations at the resorts restaurants upon arrival, or at least the day you wish to eat there. We have found that many of the best restaurants fill up quickly and required a reservation in order to dine at a reasonable time.
- Pro tips for all-inclusive resorts: Be extra mindful of resort restaurant hours, each will have varying open and closing times.
Stay Hydrated:
- In tropical destinations especially, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Make use of the included drinks and have a good time, but don’t forget to stay hydrated! Bottomless drinks and endless sun can sound like a dream, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t remember to drink enough water!
Participate in Activities (Included or Otherwise):
- Take advantage of the included activities such as water sports, fitness classes, and entertainment. But don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone even if its not included in your price. When it comes to tips for all-inclusive resorts, it’s not always all about sticking to what’s included. Go out and have fun!
- Be sure to check the daily schedule at your resort for events you might be interested in.
- Look into your resorts Kid’s Club if you have little ones! If it’s included in your package price, be sure to make the most out of your all-inclusive stay by offering a fun options for your kids! and a break for you!
Know the Entertainment Schedule:
- Our top tips for all-inclusive resorts, there is entertainment included in MANY resort packages. Whether it be live concerts, cultural immersion exercises, or otherwise, there is something for everyone! Be aware of the entertainment schedule, including shows and performances, to make sure you don’t miss out.
Tip Accordingly:
- Our most important tips for all-inclusive resorts revolve around treating and tipping the staff respectfully. While the package may include all of your food and drinks, it typically does not cover gratuities for the staff. Tipping will ensure exceptional customer service during your stay as well!
- Tip all service workers, including room cleaners, bartenders, and wait staff.
Don’t be afraid to ask!
- When it comes to top tips for all-inclusive resorts, many don’t know that you can always ask for something you don’t see offered! You never know what might be offered.
- For example, at our last stay in Playa Del Carmen (read all about our top tips for staying in Playa Del Carmen here), we found that top-shelf liquors were included in our package price. We just had to specify what kind we wanted in our drinks to the bartenders!
Be Mindful of Restrictions:
- Some resorts may have certain restrictions or rules, such as pool closing times and restaurant/buffet opening times. Familiarize yourself with them to avoid any inconveniences or conflicts during your all-inclusive stay.
Safety First
- While most all-inclusive resorts are relatively safe, still be sure to lock your doors to your hotel room and secure your personal items by the pool. No one wants something to go missing during a vacation!
Relax and Unplug:
- To make the most out of your all-inclusive stay, RELAX! Use this opportunity to relax and disconnect from work or daily stresses.
- Enjoy your all-inclusive stay to the max by utilizing all of your resorts included amenities and relaxing as much as you can!
Remember, the key to a successful all-inclusive stay is to strike a balance between relaxation and exploration. Enjoy your trip!
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I don’t have much experience with all inclusive, so found this article to be very useful. Your tip to find time to unplug is a very good one, especially when you are presented with so many included activities.
These are great tips to make the most of your all-inclusive stay at resorts. It’s so helpful to know what’s included or not.
I am a huge proponent of research and reading reviews. It makes a big difference.
When we had younger children we loved visiting all inclusive resorts with so many great food and activity options. But good tip about making sure you know what is included and not. A good kids club was essential for us.
I’ve never stayed at an all-inclusive but I want to give it a try. This will be super helpful when I am ready to make a decision. Thank you so much!
Great tips! I usually prefer ‘partially inclusive’ resorts that will include a meal and some drinks everyday, but still allows us to eat off the property. But even that takes some strategy!
My goal is to stay at my first all-inclusive resort this year and your post was helpful. Bookmarking it for my future trip.