How to Choose an All-Inclusive Resort: A Travel Advisor’s Guide

The quick answer

The right all-inclusive depends on who’s traveling and what you want from the trip. Start with three questions: adults-only or family-friendly, how much you want included (dining, drinks, tips, transfers, activities), and what kind of setting you want. Then compare the full price, not just the nightly rate.

All-inclusive resorts are a popular choice for travelers who want to simplify their vacation planning and have everything taken care of in one package. However, not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. Here are some of the main differences in all-inclusive resort options:

  1. Price: All-inclusive resorts can vary greatly in price, with some offering more luxury amenities and services than others. It’s important to do your research and compare prices to find the best option for your budget. 
  2. Food and drink options: Some all-inclusive resorts offer unlimited access to all restaurants and bars on the property, while others may have limitations or require reservations. It’s also important to consider the quality and variety of the food and drink options.
  3. Activities and entertainment: All-inclusive resorts can offer a range of activities and entertainment options, from water sports and fitness classes to nightly shows and live music. Some resorts may have more extensive offerings than others.
  4. Location and setting: All-inclusive resorts can be located in a variety of settings, from beachfront properties to more remote locations. It’s important to consider the location and setting when choosing an all-inclusive resort, as it can greatly impact your overall experience.
  5. Level of service: All-inclusive resorts can vary in the level of service they provide, from basic amenities to more personalized and attentive service. It’s important to read reviews and consider the level of service you’re looking for when choosing an all-inclusive resort.

Overall, all-inclusive resorts can offer a convenient and stress-free vacation option. However, it’s important to consider the differences between all-inclusive resort options to find the best fit for your needs and preferences.

Are you wondering what peaks the interest of our travel advisors when choosing an All Inclusive Resort? Check out some of our travel advisors recommendations:

Adults-Only or Family-Friendly?

This is the first decision we help clients make. Adults-only resorts like Sandals Grenada, Sandals Dunn’s River and Excellence El Carmen are built for romance and quiet. Family resorts like Beaches Turks & Caicos add kids clubs, water parks and family suites, so everyone has something to do.

What "All-Inclusive" Usually Covers (and What It Doesn't)

Usually includedOften extra
  • Meals and snacks
  • Drinks, including alcohol
  • Pools, beach and non-motorized water sports
  • Nightly entertainment
  • Kids clubs at family resorts
  • Spa treatments
  • Off-site excursions
  • Premium drinks or dining
  • Tips at some resorts
  • Airport transfers at some resorts

What’s included varies a lot by brand, which is why two resorts with similar nightly rates can end up costing very different amounts. We compare the full trip cost for you.

Questions to Ask Before You Book

  1. Are tips and airport transfers included?
  2. Do the restaurants need reservations, and are any specialty restaurants extra?
  3. What’s the beach like, and is it swimmable year-round?
  4. How far is the resort from the airport?
  5. Which room category gets you the view or perks you care about?

All-Inclusive Resort FAQ

Are all-inclusive resorts worth it?

For most travelers, yes. You pay one price up front and don’t have to budget for every meal and drink, which makes the trip more relaxing. Compare what’s included, since it varies by brand.

Are tips included at all-inclusive resorts?

It depends on the brand. Sandals and Beaches include tips, while many other all-inclusives don’t.

What’s the difference between adults-only and family all-inclusives?

Adults-only resorts focus on romance and quiet. Family resorts add kids clubs, water parks and family suites.

Can a travel advisor help me choose an all-inclusive?

Yes. We compare resorts, room categories and what’s included so you get the best fit for your budget.

Let us find your perfect all-inclusive

Tell us who’s traveling, your budget and the vibe you want, and we’ll narrow it down for you.

See all-inclusive resorts

Client quote about white sand beaches at Sandals Grande Antigua
Client quote about modern room amenities at Excellence Oyster Bay
Client quote about included activities like snorkeling at Sandals Southcoast
Client quote about the nightlife at Sandals Ochi
Client quote about the restaurants at Hyatt Ziva Cancun
Picture of Ashley Flowers

Ashley Flowers

Ashley Flowers is the owner of When You Wish Travel and has been helping families plan vacations since 2016. A wife, mom, and frequent Disney traveler, she combines firsthand experience at Disney destinations, Universal Orlando, and aboard cruise ships with practical advice for busy families. She believes the best vacations leave room for both the must-do experiences and the little moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

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Sarah Barrette

Sarah Barrette has loved travel since she was 15, with adventures spanning France, Panama, Hawaii, the Bahamas, Alaska, and the Southern Caribbean. After visiting Walt Disney World with her husband in 2018, she’s returned every year, including a special trip with their children. While Disney is her specialty, Sarah enjoys planning everything from adults-only retreats to family vacations, bringing personal experience and thoughtful attention to every trip.

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Madison Fariss

Madison Fariss is a When You Wish Travel dream designer specializing in Disney destinations, Universal Studios, all-inclusive resorts and cruising. A mom of two toddlers in Western Kentucky, she heads back to the Disney parks year after year, whether she's on a cruise, hugging Minnie at Disneyland or park-hopping at Walt Disney World with a Mickey pretzel in hand. She loves taking the stress out of planning so families can focus on the magic.

Ashley Flowers

Ashley Flowers is the owner of When You Wish Travel and has been helping families plan vacations since 2016. A wife, mom, and frequent Disney traveler, she combines firsthand experience at Disney destinations, Universal Orlando, and aboard cruise ships with practical advice for busy families. She believes the best vacations leave room for both the must-do experiences and the little moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.