One of my guilty pleasures is booking a week at an all-inclusive and doing a whole lot of nothing. But there is definitely an art to enjoying your time at an all-inclusive.
For the last 15 years, I have been visiting all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean with my husband, so I decided to share our top 26 tips for all-inclusive resorts.
Before I get into the list, I have to share that I visit all-inclusive resorts several times a year. We are actually visiting another one next week.
When I am desperately looking for just some “time off,” it’s directly what the doctor ordered. We all need that little break here and there.
Enough about me. Let's get to my top 26 tips for staying at an all-inclusive.
(Bonus: Some of these apply to cruising as well, so if you're going on a cruise to the Bahamas, for example, make sure to bookmark this for reference).
Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort: Finding the Right Resort
Before you even arrive at the resort, a little research planning needs to happen, so let's start with some tips for planning and finding the perfect resort for your all-inclusive vacation.
1. Do Your Research
Not all resorts are created equal. Therefore, you should always do your research and know before you go. An all-inclusive can be a great deal; however, costs can add up quickly, so you need to know what you are getting for your money.
Start by looking for truly all-inclusive resorts. For example, if you are a foodie, check to see how many restaurants are available on-site and what is included.
Are you a big fan of nightlife or like your days to be filled with activities? Then make sure you find a resort with a good activity schedule.
I have stayed at resorts that include everything from paddle boarding to guided tours. Even if you plan on lounging under a Palapa all day sipping on daiquiris, it is nice to know that you can do yoga on the beach or take a guided bike tour into town if you want to.
It is also essential to pay attention to nightly activities. Do you like to dance under the stars? Or do you prefer a Broadway show? Every resort has something different to offer. And what is better is that these activities are usually included; therefore no need to shell out extra money from your pocket.
Need a way to keep track of your travel plans? Download our free Weekend Travel Planner.
2. Find a resort that matches your travel style.
Are you looking for a kid-friendly resort, or do you prefer a romantic, adults-only kind of vibe?
Every resort has its own personality, so take some time to learn what each resort offers to find the one that is right for you.
Here is a list of a few different types of resorts you may come across (and our top recommendation for each).
Family-Friendly Resorts
If you are planning a family vacation, you want to look for a family-friendly resort. Family resorts are designed with amenities catering to all family members so everyone can have a good time.
Many all-inclusive resorts have amenities like kids' clubs; however, family-friendly resorts take it a step further by providing accommodations that work for families of all sizes.
You may find amenities such as water parks that are great for young kids and teens alike and daily resort activities for all ages. Some may even have a la carte restaurants with kid-friendly menus.
Adults-Only Resorts
Adult-only resorts are precisely what they sound like. They cater specifically to adults, and most require guests to be at least 18 years old to stay. Most people prefer the quieter environment of an adults-only resort.
However, there are plenty that cater to a more lively adult crowd with activities specifically for adults, like DJ pool parties, cocktails-making classes, and even private in-room spa services.
Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts
Going on vacation is a luxury in it of itself. However, an all-inclusive luxury resort is the way to go if you want a more elevated all-inclusive getaway. Luxury all-inclusive resorts offer upscale amenities like private pools, spas, gourmet meals, and more.
If your idea of the perfect resort vacation is ordering room service and having a butler handling everything from restaurant reservations to reserving a bali bed on the beach, then you will definitely want to focus your search on luxury resorts.
Romantic Couple's Resorts
Are you planning a romantic getaway with your boo? Then you will focus your search on all-inclusive resorts specializing in couples retreats. Couple's resorts offer more intimate atmospheres, and many packages include private dinners on the beach and honeymoon suites.
Spa and Wellness Resorts
If you want to relax and de-stress, then a spa and wellness resort is perfect. Spa resorts provide massages, facials, yoga classes, hydrotherapy, and more. Plus, they often have healthy menus that include smoothies and organic salads, which can help make your vacation even healthier.
3. Know what is included.
Yes, all-inclusive usually means your food and drink are included; however, if you want a special bottle of wine or a lobster, some resorts charge for that. Before you say yes to uncorking that bottle, ensure it is included. The worse is checking out to a $500 bill because you went crazy on the lobster and champagne.
The same goes for beach clubs. There are some great beach clubs in playa del carmen for example. But, many of them are not all-inclusive, even though they have a lot of excellent amenities.
4. Be Mindful of Your Budget
Whether you have already booked your resort or are in the process of booking a resort, you want to be mindful of your budget. All-inclusive resorts can be a great deal; however, things can get out of hand if you are not minding your budget.
Make sure you are budgeting for things like tips, excursions, transportation to and from the airport, and shopping, to name a few.
5. Research the weather: What is the Best Time To go to an All-Inclusive Resort.
This should go higher on the list. I mean, who wants to spend a week on the beach in the rain?
Take a moment to research the seasons in the location you are visiting. So, for example, in the Caribbean, hurricane season starts June 1st, which means there is a higher likelihood for your vacation to be rained out.
Of course, there is no guarantee of what the weather will be like. We went to Mexico in May, where it rained for 10 days straight, and another time in July, where there was not a drop of rain in sight for a whole week.
The best time to visit the Caribbean and Mexico is usually in the winter and spring. This is when the temperatures are still warm, but the weather is dry, which means you have a higher likelihood of full sunny days.
Spring break is another time of year that is very popular, especially in places like Cancun. If you are looking for a party scene, this might be the time to go. However, this is also the time when prices are higher, so be prepared.
If you do decide to go during spring break, please note that many resorts have started implementing spring break policies with age requirements and limits on the number of people staying in a room.
Another thing to be mindful of is sargassum. Sargassum is a brown seaweed that has started to wash up on the beaches in the Caribbean and Florida in recent years.Sargassum has progressively gotten worse over the years.
You will usually experience a large amount of seaweed in places like the Yucatan beginning in the spring and well through the summer. By the fall, it clears out. If this is a deal breaker for you, you will want to avoid visiting during those times.
6. Join the Facebook group.
This is my new favorite hack when staying at an all-inclusive resort. Before I visit (and sometimes before I book), I join the Facebook group for the specific resort.
Most of these groups are run by past guests, and this is where you can find all the information you want to know about a resort from people that have visited or are currently at the resort.
It's a treasure trove of information and one of my favorite tips.
7. Travel Protection
No one goes on vacation planning for the worse. Still, it is essential to do your research on what travel protection you have and what additional travel protection you may want to get.
For example, some resorts offer travel protection in the event of covid related illness which requires you to quarantine. Contact your hotel to learn about their policies. Some hotels will host you for additional nights complimentary or cover medical costs.
Also, some credit card companies will cover expenses due to lost or damaged luggage or late arrivals.
Finally, investing in travel insurance is a great idea for peace of mind when planning your vacation. So many possibilities could happen from an illness, injury, flight cancellations, and more. These things are often out of our control, and it's best to be prepared for anything.
Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort: Packing and Planning
8. Plan Ahead
After you have done your research, booked your trip and are ready to go, make sure you are planning ahead. For example, if your resort offers yoga classes in the morning, pack a workout outfit (I usually wear a light pair of Capri yoga pants like these and a sports bra that I can easily hand wash in my sink after use).
Make sure you have enough sunscreen for your stay. I always pack at least two bottles for my stay. Sunscreen is expensive at most of these resorts, and you want to avoid paying $30 for sunscreen that you can get at home for under $10.
Remember the bug spray. Although many resorts take measures to manage mosquitos, they still exist. Don't take that chance. Be sure to pack your bug spray of choice.
9. Ask questions-Reservations or No Reservations.
Whether you do it before your arrival or at the front desk, the one thing that can ruin a vacation is not being able to eat a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants the resort offers.
All resorts have different policies regarding reservations, so ask in advance what the policy is. I have stayed at resorts where you can pre-book dinners for the week and others that require you to book on the same day.
The last resort I stayed in didn't require reservations which I loved. However, the wait for the restaurants varied from 30 minutes to over an hour, so we definitely had to plan ahead. Know what you're getting into so you can enjoy a nice dinner with friends and family without the stress.
10. Get to know the dress code.
This is super important. Some resorts have a dress code for various activities, such as dinner. For example, the Barcelo resort requires men to wear long pants to dinner (no exceptions). Other resorts may require more formal wear, while others are more casual.
Also, be mindful of the country you are visiting. While we are mostly talking about resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, we have visited all-inclusive resorts in Dubai, which had stricter dress codes while indoors, even during the day, compared to what most in the Caribbean and Mexico might be accustomed to.
11. Pack a reusable tumbler.
Bringing an insulated tumbler will be the best decision you will ever make. I cannot tell you how often people comment on how smart we are because we are walking around with our insulated tumblers.
Not only do our drinks stay nice and cold, but because of the size of our cups, we usually make fewer trips to the bar. This is where tipping your servers come in handy too. They will likely fill up your 32oz Yeti and keep it nice and full throughout the day. So remember to pack those singles.
Also, if you are drinking in the sun, it is essential to stay hydrated. We picked up these yeti ramblers a few months ago, and they have been a game-changer. We fill it up with water, and it keeps us hydrated all day long.
We love having our own cup when at an all-inclusive. Not only are our drinks always cold, but we also don't have to worry about using plastic cups.
12. Bring your medicine cabinet (create your own first aid kit)
Ok. I am not saying to pack the whole cabinet but put together a mini first aid kit with aspirin, Pepto, Benadryl, bandaids, and other medication that may come in handy.
After a day in the sun and one too many margaritas, you will thank me when you wake up and do not have to search for Ibuprofen while your head is pounding.
Also, did I mention packing sunscreen? Pack ALOT of sunscreen. You will be surprised how quickly you get through it.
13. Pack a swimsuit and beach cover-up in your carry-on.
It's always a good idea to have an extra set of clothes you can change into as soon as you arrive. If you arrive early and cannot check-in, most resorts will allow you to use the resort facilities while you wait for your room.
You can use a changing room to change into your swimsuit and enjoy a few hours on the beach or pool while waiting for check-in.
Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort: Making the Most of your Stay
14. Tipping
Although most resorts claim that gratuities are included, tipping your servers goes a long way. I usually will bring at least 100 singles that I will give to my servers, bartenders, and housekeeping staff.
They will go out of their way to get you whatever you want. Whether it is a top-shelf liquor that is technically “not included” or making sure your glass is never empty, tips are very much appreciated by the staff, and they will show you their appreciation. It's a no-brainer. A few dollars can go a long way.
15. Get to know the resort staff.
Getting to know the staff at the resort can make your stay even more enjoyable. Whether it's a concierge with insider information on the best restaurants in town or a bartender who always has your drink ready for you when you arrive, getting to know the staff is key.
We are repeat visitors to several resorts and have become such good friends with the resort staff that we have seen their children grow up.
There are of course perks that come with it (like getting your favorite table at dinner), but ultimately getting to know the resort staff is simply a way for you to feel at home and make your vacation experience even more enjoyable.
16. Make reservations as soon as they are available.
If your resort requires reservations for dinner and/or activities, you want to get that sorted out as soon as you get there so you can get first dibs at your optimal times.
If, for some reason, you cannot get the time that you want, check in with the concierge on the day of your reservations. Sometimes they are cancellations, so you can get in at the time you really want.
17. Get a copy of the activity schedule.
Most resorts will provide a schedule of the activities and entertainment that will be provided during your stay. It is an excellent way to get a lay of the land to know what activities are available and when they happen.
If you have time, try out something new each day! Whether it's learning to surf or salsa dance lessons on the beach, trying new activities is a great way to explore the local culture and make your vacation even more enjoyable.
Bonus: Some resorts now have apps you can download before you arrive to get a sneak peek at the available activities. This is great for planning (and packing). For example, the Riu has an app showing you the schedule up to a week in advance. We love it because it helps plan for their famous themed parties like neon or white parties.
18. Claim your spot
I know, I know. Unpopular opinion. This is a practice that many people frown upon. However, it is a reality. They call it the chair game. It happens almost everywhere.
You wake up, go to breakfast, and head out to the pool, only to realize that every lounge is taken. Plan ahead and grab your spot first thing in the morning.
I picked up these cool little clips from Amazon, and they are fantastic for holding down my towel and easy to pack. You can find them here.
I will get up, have a light breakfast, and claim my spot under a Palapa on the beach (because I like my shade).
We then will step away for breakfast, lunch, or a swim throughout the day. I have no issue with people claiming their spot as long as they are actually using there spot. Stepping away for 15 minutes to get a bite or a drink is coo.
Just don't be that person who claims 8 chairs and then goes back to the room to sleep the day away.
Unfortunately, we have to play the game but don't be a [insert expletive of choice].
19. Mind your belongings
We are going to talk about the don’ts further down the list however one of the biggest dont’s is to leave your valuables at home. However, if you insist on packing valuables, make sure you mind your belongings.
Just as you wouldn't leave your iPhone visible and unattended at a public beach at home, you should not do it at a resort.
It is best to leave your belongings locked in the safe. You are on vacation. Do you really need to have your phone anyway? I always opt to keep my valuables at home. However, if you must keep everything safe.
If you insist on carrying valuables with you, I recently saw someone with this cool locking pool pouch. You put your belongings in it and lock it to your chair. So if you need to step away for a minute to dip in the pool, your belongings will be safe.
I still need to get one, and to be honest, I don't normally keep my belongings with me at the beach or pool, but it looked like a fantastic idea. You can check it out here if you're interested.
Walking around the pool in your $1000 sunnies and $1500 gold chain is unnecessary. You think you look cute but will be very unhappy if your stuff goes missing.
20. Stay hydrated
You have been dreaming about that frozen pina colada for months. Combine one too many alcoholic beverages with the hot Caribbean sun. That is a recipe for disaster (and a killer hangover). To avoid this, alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated.
When you are not at the bar or pool, fill your water bottle with filtered water (most resorts have bottled water or filtered water at the bar) and keep it close by. You don't want to be that person who faints on the beach due to dehydration or gets a little too drunk because you had one too many and no water.
21. Make sure to use your sunscreen.
You packed the sunscreen. Great job. But now you have to actually use it. Time flies when you are having fun, so reapply at least once every hour. This is especially important if you spend a lot of time in the water. Take a break. Reapply and keep the party going.
22. Remember the bug spray.
Bugs are a reality, but with bug spray, you can keep your vacation buzz going long after the sun has set (minus the bug bites). Many natural options are available now that don't have all those harsh chemicals, so make sure to grab some before you go out.
You can read more about one of our favorites here.
23. Ask about the hospitality suite.
All great vacations must come to an end; however, if you have a flight well past the usual noon check-out time, most resorts will allow you to enjoy the day at the resort.
Resorts have what they call hospitality suites where you can shower and freshen up before heading home. Some will give you access to a private hospitality suite while others will have a bathroom with showers that you can use.
Just check with the front desk. Some resorts require you to make reservations beforehand, while others are first come, first serve.
Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort: What not to do.
24. Bringing along all your valuables.
When vacationing anywhere, I always swap my valuables for less expensive versions.
For example, I pack only costume jewelry I would not miss if lost.
My sunnies are from the dollar store. If I feel fancy, I may invest in a $5 pair. You will not be happy watching your Gucci's floating away into the Caribbean sea. Trust me. I know. I always go binge-shopping on costume jewelry and sunnies before my trips. If it gets lost or damaged, it is not a big deal.
If you must bring your valuables, take advantage of the in-room safe. Make sure you use a code that can be easily remembered, and always check and double-check that your valuables are secured and the safe is locked before you head out for the day.
25. Never leaving the resort.
Ok. I am going, to be honest. I don't follow my own advice. I am that person that will arrive at the resort and never leave. But I do this purposely. The whole point of my booking an all-inclusive resort trip is to do a whole lot of nothing. And if you are like me, then do you. No judgment here.
However, if it is your first time visiting a specific location, I encourage you to get to know the local area. You can have a wonderful time even if you stay at the resort. But, if you want to take full advantage of the place you are visiting, I recommend taking a day or two to get out.
For example, pick a night to check out one of the local restaurants. Or book an excursion for a day to experience the local culture and get some awesome photos.
26. Don't forget to have fun.
This is the most important tip on this list. One of the essential tips for all-inclusive resorts on this list is to have fun. You can follow all the tips and tricks to make the best of your vacation, but if you're not having a good time, then what's the point?
An all-inclusive trip is designed to be a worry-free getaway. So make sure to take advantage of that and truly enjoy your time.
The Best All-Inclusive Resorts
So now that you know my top tips for making the best of your all-inclusive experience here is a roundup of some of the properties I have visited recently. If you have any specific questions about any of these properties please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I will be happy to share my experiences at any of the resorts below.
What's the #1 hotel in Mexico? Read reviews & find hotel deals on TripAdvisor!
Catalonia Playa Maroma, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
I just visited this place. There are always great deals for this place and you really do get a lot for your money.
Pros:
- No reservations required for restaurants
- Great Beach
Cons:
- Can be long waits at the restaurants
- Some Rooms are far from the Beach
Check Prices Here for Catalonia Playa Maroma
Secrets The Vine, Cancun, Mexico
Pros:
- Close to the airport
- Daily Wine Tasting
Cons:
- Ocean can be rough at times
- Can be pricey
Check Prices Here for Secrets The Vine
Secrets Wild Orchid, Montego Bay, Jamaica
This is one my faves. I spent 10 days here and it was fabulous.
Pros:
- Nightly Entertainment with lots of Variety
- Great Beach
Cons:
- Can be pricey
Check Prices Here for Secrets Wild Orchid
Paradisus, La Perla Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
If you are looking to be spoiled this is another one of my faves.
Pros:
- Excellent restaurants with no reservations required.
- Great Nightly Entertainment
Cons:
- Beach was bit rocky
- Waits could be long for seating at restaurants however each restaurant has a specialty bar which makes the wait easy.
Check Prices Here for Paradisus, La Perla Playa Del Carmen
The best tips for all-inclusive resorts: How do you get the most out of an all-inclusive resort?
Staying at an all-inclusive resort can be a great way to save money and have a fantastic vacation. By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, you are guaranteed to have a fabulous time.
Following practical advice like packing the right items, using sunscreen and bug spray as needed, leaving your valuables behind (or securing them in a safe), getting out to explore the local area, and most importantly, having fun – you will get the most out of your all-inclusive stay.
We hope you enjoyed these all-inclusive tips. Do you have any of your own you would like to share?
This Wanderlust Heart says
Awesome post. I agree about the reserving your beach or pool lounger. It’s very annoying but you gotta play the game. In DR I actually paid the guys that cleaned the beach to reserve my chairs in the front row. Best money I ever spent! haha
Taima says
Thank you. And that is such a good idea. First row is prime property. HAHA. Saves you the trouble of getting up at sunrise.
New York For Beginners says
Those are great tips, Taima! Can you believe I have never been in an all-inclusive (yet)? Will make sure to claim my spot in the shade when I go 😉
Taima says
Thank you. And I believe it. I know a lot of people that have never been to an All Inclusive. Some people don’t care for them because they do not see it as “traveling”. For me it really is my vacation from vacation. I have to do one at least once a year.
Christine says
I agree wir you that it is a nice thing to stay in a Resort after exhausting traveling. I am currently staying in a Resort in south of Italy after having visited Florence, Rome, Naples, Pompej and the Beautiful Amafi Coast.
In this Resort I enjoy amazing Italian food as well as sportive activities such as yoga classes. After a 5 days stay in the Resort I will continue my trip through beautiful Italy.
Taima says
That sounds amazing. I am soo jealous. I do look forward to my all inclusive vacations. I need that down time. Can’t wait to get out there again.
Natalie Ann Redman says
I love staying all-inclusive. It takes away any effort for when you just want to completely relax and shut off.
Taima says
I totally agree. Sometimes we just need that level of relaxation in our lives right..
Britney H says
Thank you so much. We recently went to Playa Del Carmen and stayed at the Occidental. We are going back for our honeymoon in September. We will be staying at the Now Jade. Any advice for that specific resort. Also what amount do you usually tip. We gave tips in pesos. I really didn’t keep track and want to get it down before we go back.
Taima says
Hi Britney, I personally have not stayed at Now Jade but my parents have and they loved it. We usually tip in US dollars and we will do 1-2 per drink. And usually about 5-10 for meals depending on the party size and the size of the meal.
Christoph says
Would getting a pool drink floatie for your tumbler/thermos be a good idea?
This way you don’t have to hold on to your drink the whole time in the pool?
Taima says
We actually have a few that we found at Target. I like them but to be honest they don’t work well with larger thermos/tumblers. They are too top heavy and can tip over. However, they are perfect for the little cups you usually get at the resorts.
Benea Masella says
I like the idea of an all inclusive, but I want all of us girls to be close and share a common area. Is Airbnb/VRBO the only option, or do these resorts like Paradisus offer large, adjoining rooms/suites? Thanks for all of the information, I’m having my bachelorette party in Cancun next July and it was very helpful.
Taima says
Hi Benea. Some resorts do have 1 and 2 bedroom suites where that might work for you. For example, the Paradisus has a two-bedroom suite with a king bed, two double beds, and two sofa beds.
We have stayed in the 1 bedroom suite with a king bed and pull out sofa and it was super spacious so I imagine the 2 bedroom would be as well.
richardn nagle says
Does the Azul Resort @ (THE ONE THAT ABOUT 20MINS SOUTH OF CANCUN AIRPORT) cary any non-alcohol beer?Those ones like the O,dules back in the states?Any non-alcohl beer?
Thank you,Rich
Taima says
Hi Rich, I am not familiar with whether they currently offer non-alcholic beer. I would recommend reaching out to the hotel to confirm. Many resorts have changed their offerings due to covid therefore going straight to the resort will guarantee you get the most up-to-date information.
Jeanne says
Girls trip to Sandos Finisterra in Cabo in January 2023, we’ve never been. Anything we should know would help. Thanks
Taima says
I have not been yet however check to see if they have a facebook group. Its a great place to learn more about the resort and get any specific questions you have about the resort and what to expect answered. Cabo is awesome. You’re going to have a blast.
Joanne Baker says
Only thing I would add is bring a pool float. New ones are mesh net with blow up ends. Easy to pack.
Taima says
Yea. That is a great idea. We actually have two of those. So easy to pack. I am going to write an all-inclusive packing list and I’m going to include that. Thanks for the suggestions.