Spring Break: The Pros and Cons of All-Inclusive Resorts

Signing on to an all-inclusive offer may seem tempting. When vacation time comes, all you have to do is show up, kick up your feet and enjoy time with your family or friends. What could be better? But saving money might be worth a little extra legwork if you’re up for it. Read about the pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts, see what’s right for you and start planning a spring break getaway for your group.

Lodging

If you’ve got a large group, check if the resorts at your target destination offer a condo or cabin option to house everyone in one space. Separate hotel rooms for parents, siblings or couples can add up and make the all-inclusive choice a budget breaker. Alternatively, look for non-resort independent guesthouses or short-term rentals that will suit your lodging needs. If you crave super cushy digs and daily housekeeping service while on vacation, then an all-inclusive resort with those amenities is the better option. However, if you don’t mind making your own bed and prefer a cozier feel, you’ll save money in a space you can make your own for the duration of your trip.

Food and Drink

Part of the fun of getting away is letting someone else do the cooking. All-inclusive options can save you money if you’re interested in lavish breakfast buffets and large dinners. But if you’re looking to try a true selection of the local cuisine, you’ll want to venture outside of a resort. Budgeters and lighter eaters might prefer to have snacks or easy-to-make meals on hand at a short-term rental, especially for early morning or late night grazing.

Entertainment

If your family members or friends are interested in resort-offered tourist outings nearby, like snorkeling or comped ski-lift tickets, then an all-inclusive option might make the most sense. The same goes for groups with multiple interests. Maybe the golf course fits the bill for some while the water park sounds good to others — in which case you’ll want everyone to be able to come and go as they please. Travelers looking for unique vacation experiences, on the other hand, like volcano hiking or dog-sledding, will be better off booking their fun a la carte.

Convenience

You’re taking a vacation for a reason: to get away. If extra planning sounds like a drag and all you want to do is lounge by the pool, then by all means, book an all-inclusive. Plant yourself on the patio and enjoy. If you’re eager to explore, sightsee and immerse yourself in a new culture and new experiences, skip the all-inclusive and put cash toward your adventures. You can still enjoy the pool or a quaint seaside restaurant.

But before you go on your vacay, be sure to secure your home with these tips. We wish you a safe and happy vacation.