Pros

Resorts offer a carefree vacation that does not require a lot of cost or planning. You can enjoy the beach, all-you-can-eat-and-drink buffets, and nightly entertainment. 

There are a variety of all-inclusive resort types. Popular brands such as Beaches are built and branded to appeal to families with children. The RIU resorts are also very family friendly but cater to couples and groups as well. If you are a couple seeking romance and privacy, there are the Sandals resorts. If you would rather not share your pool or dining room space with children, choose one of the adults only all-inclusive resorts.

Most all-inclusive resorts, especially in the Caribbean, are located on a beach. Those that are not on a beach or in a bay have easy access to a public or private beach. Also, they are usually located close to a major airport and city. This makes traveling to all-inclusive resorts convenient.

Above all they are very economical. Much like cruises, you pay one price that covers your room, food, drinks, activities and entertainment.

As a result, you can leave your wallet in the room safe and roam around the resort, eating and drinking until your heart and belly are content.

Furthermore, most airlines offer packages that include your resort stay and your airfare, which is cheaper than booking separately.

There are always deals on discount travel sites that make a family vacation for 4 for a week very manageable.

If you choose to stay in during the evening, feel free to order complimentary room service. Enjoy the fully stocked bar which is also complimentary!

From the moment you wake up until late into the night there are activities taking place all over the resort.

Some resorts have adult only sections where it is possible to get away from the noise and masses.

There is daily housekeeping service. You may even get turn down service with chocolates on your pillow. There is always a staff member on the resort within arm’s reach to provide whatever services you need.

The resorts are often behind high walls, gated and with 24-hour security and staff on premises.

Cons

If you do not like crowds, prefer a more intimate setting and want to explore an area like the locals do, this may not be the vacation choice for you. 

The things that make you feel secure at an all-inclusive resort also prohibit you from freely and easily exploring other parts of the place you are visiting. You are forced to take shuttle buses or tours from the resort in order to see and experience any of the city, country or island, assuming it is deemed safe to do so.

The food is not usually very good. Although the amount is plentiful, the quality and the taste are lacking. The specialty restaurants, at which meals are also included, are a bit better so it is best to make reservations as soon as you arrive.

Resorts are crowded, and it may be difficult to find a quiet place to relax.

The tour directors and staff can be pushy. They attempt to get you to spend money on tours, excursions and water activities, because it’s a way for the resort to recoup money on the great deals they offer. Just say NO if you are not interested in these activities.

The spas and water sport activities are expensive compared to what you will pay at home. Ask for resort credits to use toward these expenses when booking any all-inclusive resort.

If you read all the fine print you may find that things such as WiFi are not included with some packages. Some dining experiences also cost extra or do not allow resort credits to be applied.

Be flexible

Airlines and resorts frequently offer special pricing with considerable savings. While changing the times of a visit may not be possible for families, individual travelers may have the opportunity to adjust their plans to save money.

Contract directly with the off-site activity sponsors

Take the time to learn about the areas surrounding the resort to determine whether you want to travel off-site. You may want your vacation to include tours, excursions, or unique experiences.

Consider researching and booking such activities on your own. Resorts typically steer guests to the external services for which they receive a fee, not necessarily the best or the least expensive. Maybe it is possible to book the same excursion offered through the hotel for a lower price by going directly to the provider.

Travel in a group

Being able to book several guests through the same reservation saves the resort considerable administrative time and expense. Those savings may in turn be shared with those guests. Consequently, before going to an all-inclusive resort, learn about any discounts or extras they offer to groups. Traveling with others can not only save money but also increase the fun.

BYOB

If you want premium liquor and it’s not included in the base cost, bring your own from home. Alternatively, you can purchase it off-site. Either way, you can enjoy cocktails in the comfort of your room. Similarly, bring any personal care items you will use, especially tanning lotion if you’re visiting a beach, rather than purchasing them in the resort commissary.

Travel agents vs. booking sites

The best travel agents can save you the time and trouble of searching through multiple options. In addition, they should be aware of any special deals that might apply to your trip. In many cases, the fees they charge are recovered from the advantages or discounts they secure on your behalf. However, not all travel agents are the same; quality varies from agent to agent. If you use an agent, try to find one who has worked with someone you know and trust. Agents who serve your employer are a good place to start since they have a vested interest in your satisfaction.

Read the small print

Before making any reservations be sure you understand the limitations of the provider’s contract. Pay attention to their cancellation policies.

Do your homework

Even neighboring resorts in the same country provide vastly different experiences, just based on the quality of the amenities and service. Read online reviews. Is the resort clean and well maintained? Is the staff friendly and accommodating? How are the food and drink options? The shared impressions of previous travelers can give you the inside scoop before you book your trip.