5 Money-Saving Secrets All-Inclusive Resorts Don’t Want You To Know All-inclusive resorts are advertised as stress-free vacations, but if you end up breaking your budget while enjoying one, stress-free becomes a long shot from what you’re actually experiencing. But there are plenty of ways your all-inclusive vacation can be as worry-free and relaxing as you’re expecting. Follow these seven simple money-saving tips while booking and enjoying your next all-inclusive vacation, and you’ll understand why so many travelers choose all-inclusive getaways year after year.
Also get: Troia Portugal #1. Assess the Hidden Fees
All-inclusive doesn’t always mean exactly what you think. Spend plenty of time browsing the website of the resort you plant to visit or talking with them on the phone to find out exactly what’s included in your rate. Internet fees, airport transportation fees as well as certain activities, meals and drinks may not actually be included in your nightly rate. Sometimes it’s beneficial to pay a slightly higher rate to have these potentially costly items and services included. #2. Visit After Labour Day and Before Christmas
All-inclusive vacation rates are better when demand is low, and that’s when kids are in school and the cold weather hasn’t quite settled in. Travelers can find great deals on European vacations by traveling shortly after Labour Day when the weather is still warm. And all-inclusive vacations in warm-weather destinations (like Mexico and the Caribbean) are more affordable before all of the snowbirds head down shortly after Christmas. #3. Price Generally Reflects Quality
Jaw-dropping prices may make it tough to resist the urge to click buy immediately, but if the resort seems too good to be true, it might be. While it’s not unheard-of to get an incredible deal on a nice all-inclusive resort — especially if you start watching resort sales 11 months ahead of time — it’s best to ask a friend or log onto a forum to find out what the resort is really like. A crazy deal may even mean that construction is being done at your resort, and you won’t be able to access some of the resort features or the room you prefer. #4. Pay for What You’ll Use
An all inclusive resort that advertises an on-site casino, sailboat rides, scuba lessons, horseback riding and parasailing may seem like a great place to stay, but it’s important to consider the features you’ll really use before buying. If you’re planning to spend your days lounging by the pool or swimming in the ocean, you may not need to pay extra for a resort that includes watersports, tours and other features you’ll probably never use. #5. Keep an Eye on Occupancy Rules
Every all-inclusive resort has different rules and different small print you need to be familiar with before arriving. Some resorts only allow four occupants per room, which can be a big problem for families with three (or more) children or slightly larger groups of travelers. Always call the resort or consult your travel agent about occupancy rules before pulling the trigger on your booking.