Top 15 Mistakes People Make at All-Inclusive Resorts
For vacationers, dreams of paradise with all you can eat and drink and day after day of things to do make all-inclusive resorts sound too good to be true. All the perks aside, many people can hit the same common pitfalls that detract from the experience. You must know what to avoid as a first-timer or a seasoned traveler.
These are the top 15 mistakes people make at all-inclusive resorts, as per the experts and tips on how to avoid them so your getaway can be nothing short of perfect.
Assuming Everything Is Included
The term “all-inclusive” sounds like every amenity is covered, but this is rarely true. Bonus features like premium alcohol, spa service, guided excursions, room service, childcare, and Wi-Fi cost extra.
Expert insight: Most first-time visitors to all-inclusive resorts are surprised by unexpected costs. Read the fine print before booking and ask what is included. Choose your resorts according to your priorities to avoid unpleasant billing surprises.
Ignoring the Resort’s Schedule
If you ignore the resort schedule, you could miss out on everything—from restaurant hours to the timing of events such as sunset yoga classes.
Expert insight: Guests often miss this information and learn about complimentary offerings after days of their stay. Arrive and Check activity and dining schedules or resort-specific apps. Many resorts also post events, restaurant hours, and tour times daily.
Overindulging in Food and Drinks
With so many unlimited options, it’s tempting to sample everything. But overindulging can cause sickness or exhaustion and ruin part of your vacation.
Expert insight: Choose moderation. You can also enjoy small portions of many dishes or have bits in between overindulgent meals. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water.
Eating Only at the Buffet
Many resorts have hidden gems to find in à la carte restaurants or poolside grills, and buffets can feel like the easiest option, but that doesn’t guarantee the most delicious meal. Of course, by sticking strictly to the buffet, you won’t be trying new food experiences.
Tip: Book specialty restaurants as soon as possible. Often, the cuisine at these spots is native to the destination—local seafood or a chef’s tasting menu.
Falling for Sales Pitches
Typically, resorts have sales staff trying to sell timeshares, excursions, or upgrades, and then … boom! … your relaxation time is eaten up.
Tip: Politely decline. If you like excursions, research or ask the concierge for places they trust.
Not Packing Essentials and Personal Care Items
Just because it’s a resort doesn’t mean you can forget essentials like sunscreen, a specific shampoo and conditioner, or first aid supplies. You don’t want to stress about these things or spend too much at the overpriced gift shops.
Tip: When traveling, pack sunscreen, bug spray, medications, and other personal care items. Make a checklist to ensure you don’t leave the things you want behind.
Choosing the Wrong Resort
Some resorts are not created for the same clients. While some may be family-focused, others are for couples or adult relaxation only. Choosing a resort that isn’t right for you can ruin your trip.
Tip: Before you book, check the demographics, make sure the resort matches your preferences, read the reviews, and ask about the amenities. Websites like TripAdvisor or resort blogs can provide honest insights about resorts.
Not Taking Advantage of Sister Resort Options
Many all-inclusive chains allow guests to use the property next to it and access extra restaurants, pools, or activities for no additional fee. However, ignoring these options may reduce your overall experience.
Tip: Ask about sister resort privileges before you travel. Take the time to explore these added amenities.
Booking Without Comparing Prices
Hopping on the first deal you see can result in paying too much or missing out on free stuff like resort credits or room upgrades.
Tip: Check out the prices on multiple booking platforms. Sign up for resort newsletters or work with a travel agent to gain exclusive discounts.
Skipping the Fine Print
If you fail to read your package terms, you may be stung by hidden costs or confused about exactly what is included, such as added costs for activities or premium drinks.
Tip: Check the fine print before finally claiming your booking. If you are in doubt, ask the resort to verify inclusions.
Forgetting About Travel Insurance
Your dream vacation can be ruined if anything should cancel your holiday, such as weather, medical emergencies, or luggage loss. You’ll be responsible for the bill if you don’t have travel insurance.
Tip: Buy good, comprehensive travel insurance. For peace of mind, many plans include coverage for cancellations, emergencies, and lost belongings.
Neglecting to Make Dinner Reservations
Reservations are required at most specialty restaurants, and spots book fast. Skipping this step could mean having less to eat.
Tip: Book dining reservations upon or before check-in to the resort.
Not Packing Appropriate Clothing
With so many changing resort activities—from poolside lounging to upscale dinners—various resort activities call for different clothing. Formal or specific clothing can be forgotten, limiting participation in certain experiences.
Tip: Pack according to restaurants and activity dress codes. Add versatile outfits that work in the sand and dining.
Not Checking the Daily Events Schedule
Although resorts offer exciting games, shows, and themed nights, you may miss out if you don’t check the daily schedule.
Tip: It’s a good idea to review the resort event schedule each morning to chart your day.
Not Planning for Special Occasions
Whose birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary are you celebrating? If you let the resort know about it, they often offer complimentary room upgrades or champagne.
Tip: Give the resort notice if it is for a special occasion. Sometimes, you score some fantastic free perks to enhance your stay.
All-inclusive resorts make the ideal escape from daily stress, but just getting there is not enough to experience the whole thing. With good information and careful forethought, your trip can be seamless, stress-free, and suited to your travel preferences.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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