Are All-Inclusive Resorts Worth It? 5 Questions You Should Always Ask Yourself Before Booking

Let’s face it: If you’re looking to cash in on PTO days and revel in some true R&R, there’s no better place to do so than somewhere warm and sunny. But, before you pack your bags and embark on your restful retreat, you’ll have to figure out where you want to stay. Beachy destinations like Hawaii and Cabo are rife with all-inclusive resorts—properties that have factored in food beverages into your daily fee. However, how do you know that’s the right move for you? Is your family vacation or romantic getaway best suited for the all-inclusive lifestyle? And, if you do opt into an all-inclusive accommodation, how do you know that you’re getting the best bang for your buck? After all, there’s no way every food and beverage program is created equal.

To help, we tapped two West Coast properties to share their top tips for navigating the indulgent world of all-inclusive accommodations. From understanding the pros and cons to their insider tips when booking, their insights will ensure you get that R&R you so deserve.

Garza Blanca

1. What’s My Dream Vacation?

According to Alex Pariente—vice president of casino and hotel operations at Hard Rock International, which has locations in Cabo, Punta Cana, and Riviera Maya—all-inclusive properties can cater to groups. “[Parents] can relax knowing that meals, activities, and entertainment are all taken care of, which allows them to focus on creating unforgettable memories with their children,” he says. “With amenities like private beaches, luxurious spa treatments, and fine dining experiences, couples can enjoy a romantic escape without the hassle of planning every detail.” And, of course, the convenience of on-site restaurants make it easy to corral larger groups.

Instead, travel experts urge you to think about your ideal vacation. “For travelers seeking convenience, relaxation, and a variety of on-site activities, all-inclusive options like ours offer exceptional value,” says Sasa Milojevic, CEO of TAFER Hotels & Resorts, which has several properties in Mexico. “This seamless, stress-free experience aligns perfectly with the desires of those looking for an all-encompassing getaway.” 

Meanwhile, vacationers who are eager to get out and do things should consider how often they plan to leave the premises. “While our resorts do offer plenty of exciting excursions—from cultural tours to adventure sports—these guests might not take full advantage of the all-inclusive benefits if they spend most of their days away,” Pariente explains. How you spend your next trip is an entirely personal decision, but it’s one that will have some major sway in your hotel choice.

2. Do the Amenities Match My Interests?

Turns out, not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. Even if you plan on spending the bulk of your time at the property, it’s important to make sure a hotel’s offerings are aligned with your interests. “If entertaining the kids is a main priority, you will want to research all-inclusives that have swimming pools, water slides, kids clubs, or other activities to keep them busy,” Pariente says. Meanwhile, larger groups might want to keep the party going with amenities like casinos or live music.

Garza Blanca

3. How Good is the Food? 

If you plan to book a stay at an all-inclusive resort, you better arrive hungry! These properties are basically like one big all-you-can-eat buffet, so it’s important that you actually like the food. After all, why go to a restaurant outside of your hotel if you already paid for a bounty of bites? “Look for properties with exceptional reviews of dining options,” Milojevic says. “Travelers should also check for flexibility in mealtimes.” 

In addition to rave restaurant reviews, you’ll also want to look for a variety of dining options. Picky eaters might be okay ordering a burger and fries every day, but those with an adventurous palette will likely want more choices. For example, TAFER’s Garza Blanca property in Cabo offers a breadth of gourmet eateries, from a Japanese restaurant to a classic steakhouse.

4. What’s Actually Included in My Package? 

It might come as a surprise to you, but not everything at an all-inclusive property is baked into your daily rate. “Some premium experiences at properties such as exclusive spa treatments, and certain excursions, may come with an additional charge,” Pariente explains. Plus, some properties offer top-shelf liquor or premium meals like lobster or wagyu for an additional fee. Before you book, Pariente recommends reviewing the details of your package. If any questions arise, a hotel’s concierge team is usually happy to help.

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5. How Am I Booking My Stay?

The biggest tip when staying at an all-inclusive resort? Always book directly through a hotel. While making a reservation through a third-party site might seem like a better deal upfront, Milojevic says working with the property is well worth the investment. “Joining a loyalty program can offer additional benefits, including special deals and advance notice about promotions,” he says. Psst: If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, Milojevic recommends thinking outside of a destination’s peak dates. “Traveling during shoulder seasons may also provide more competitive rates and a more tranquil vacation experience,” he says.