1. Underestimating Pay-As-You-Go Prices
Even when you know it’s all-inclusive, that doesn’t mean the price won’t give you sticker shock. You might think you’re not going to eat or drink enough to get your money’s worth, but bear in mind you don’t yet know what the pay-as-you-go price is; often at resorts, food is way more expensive than you would think. For example, an appetizer you’d expect to be $10 might cost $25 at an all-inclusive resort, and drinks that are normally $15 might start at $30. Because of the typically inflated prices at all-inclusive resorts, it’s easier than you think to make the all-inclusive price worth it.
2. Overdoing It
You may feel pressure to eat and drink more than you normally would because it’s included in the price, but there’s no rule that says you have to try every item on the menu. Wanting to get your money’s worth is understandable, but if it comes at the price of consuming to the point of discomfort or illness, it’s not worth it. The question of how much is too much is a personal one, and everyone usually knows and can set their own limits. If there’s room for dessert, go for it. If not, you can always try it next time.
3. Not Checking the Vibe
Each resort has its own personality and draws a particular kind of guest. Some resorts are officially adults-only, while others are geared to attract families with waterslides and daycare programs. If you want to get a sense of what kind of resort it is and what the crowd will be like, take a look at the amenities and scheduled events. Music playlists alone can help you tell the difference between a resort that draws more boomers versus one that caters to millennials.
4. Assuming Everything Is Included
You might assume when booking an all-inclusive, everything pertaining to your trip is included, from airfare and land transfers to tips, gratuity, activities, amenities, and more. However, all-inclusive rates can vary widely in what they cover; your pick might include accommodations and food only, or it might include alcoholic drinks but not tips. Flights from your home airport to your destination are usually not included, but if the resort is remote and luxurious enough, it might have its own planes or boats to ferry guests that last leg. Don’t assume once you book and pay for an all-inclusive trip, you can close your wallet. There may be additional aspects of your trip you still need to plan and purchase.
5. Ignoring the Fine Print
Don’t ignore the fine print when booking an all-inclusive vacation. Read the contract word by word, then read it again. You may be surprised to find that the all-inclusive package doesn’t include taxes or gratuities, which can add up to thousands of dollars. Conversely, you may discover airport transfers are included when you were thinking you had to book your own transportation. Either way, it’s important to be aware of what you’re agreeing to, what you’re paying for, and what your rate doesn’t cover. You’ll also want to check out the refund or cancellation policies, in case your trip is interrupted or postponed.
6. Blowing Your Budget
Setting a budget is important to protect your finances and keep yourself within the bounds of what’s reasonable for your situation. It can be easy to convince yourself that a super-expensive package is worth the splurge. If you’re uncomfortable paying a certain price or have to dig into savings (or, worse, go into debt) to make it happen, don’t do it, as you’re only setting yourself up for disappointment all vacation long. Every pitfall and imperfection of the trip can make you bitter and resentful over the money you shelled out and shouldn’t have. In addition, while it might be tempting to splurge on amenities not included in the rate, especially as you’ve paid up front, be wary, as those extras can add up quickly and lead to an inflated bill at the end of your stay.
7. Staying on the Property the Whole Time
An all-inclusive vacation can be limiting in that it encourages travelers to stay within the bounds of what is included. This can mean never leaving the property, never trying a local restaurant, or never spending money on local excursions and activities. Not only can this make for a bland, one-dimensional experience, but it also shortchanges local merchants and service providers at the destination. It may be tempting to avoid spending money outside of what you paid for the resort, but failing to budget and plan for food, activities, and experiences outside of the all-inclusive package can result in a less fulfilling, exciting, and enriching trip.
8. Paying for Amenities You Won’t Use
Your resort may have different all-inclusive packages available, with a variety of amenities on offer. Don’t pay for things you won’t use! If you don’t drink alcohol, or you’re on a diet of fish and salads, buying a meal package that includes nightly steak and wine pairings would be unnecessary. Spa services might be superfluous if you’d rather be spending all your time at the beach. Before making your final decision, take a look at the lower-tier packages, as well as consider going the à la carte route.
9. Neglecting to Take Full Advantage of What’s Included
You’re paying a higher price for an all-inclusive vacation for a reason: there is a lot on offer. Be sure you are up to speed on what exactly the resort includes in the rate, and plan to take full advantage. (Think, poolside piña colada deliveries, sailing lessons, snorkel gear, private island cabanas, and perhaps even spa access.) Living in the lap of luxury is all the more restorative when you can indulge all of your whims and don’t have to pay an extra penny for it.
10. Eating Only Familiar Foods
The beauty of an all-inclusive stay is you’re free to eat and drink whatever and whenever you please. Don’t pass up the opportunity to sample dishes that are new to you! All-inclusives typically have buffets or restaurants with a wide variety of food on offer, with all of it available at no additional cost. Instead of sticking with your favorite foods or usual combinations, venture out of your comfort zone and try something new. If you don’t like it, no loss; you can pick something else.
Twist’s Take: Here are 10 mistakes to avoid when booking an all-inclusive vacation.
