As you begin planning your summer getaway, you’ll likely come across options for all-inclusive resorts. An increasing number of hotel chains, such as Hilton, have begun offering all-inclusive resort options to their guests. All-inclusive has a lot of shine and sounds very appealing, but is it worth the price?

It Depends On The Package

When looking at all-inclusive resorts, be sure to read the fine-print. Many resorts market being all-inclusive, but their all-inclusive package simply includes food and basic activities. Other resorts offer an entirely all-inclusive package that includes amenities such as alcoholic drinks, water sports, and airfare. Even then, that could just include the basics. You may end up having to pay more for premium liquor or premium food.

Whether or not the price of an all-inclusive trip is worth it will depend heavily on what features and amenities are a part of your trip’s package. If you’re unclear about what the package offers after doing your initial research, call the resort. If they are vague when answering questions about the package’s offerings, you may be better off looking elsewhere.

They May Not Be Any More Worth It Than A Standard Vacation

According to Peggy Goldman, the president of Friendly Planet Travel, all-inclusive resorts may not be the cheapest option when it comes to vacationing. You should compare the all-inclusive package to individual prices.

With an all-inclusive resort, you will likely be paying more for convenience. Planning for the trip is kept at a minimal level, as everything is either pre-arranged or on site. However, traditional vacationing methods allow much more flexibility and freedom on your trip.

Some guests find that after a few days at an all-inclusive resort, they are bored and looking for more adventure. If you are a thrill-seeker, check to see if there are any other options offered by the hotel to add on to your all-inclusive package. Some resorts offer day excursions so that guests can explore the area outside of the resort.

All-inclusive resorts may not serve local food, either. They often have buffets that are more general, like “Italian” or “Mexican.” That’s not to say they won’t have a few local dishes available but if you want an authentic experience, all-inclusive may not be your best option.

Read The Reviews

Online reviews give some of the best insight into what a resort actually offers. Many reviewers will indicate in the review whether they thought the all-inclusive package was worthwhile or not.

Review websites can also be good for looking at photos of the resort. Don’t trust the photos you see online, which have been staged and touched up to draw business. Guests provide the most accurate portrayal of a resort. If there is damage in the rooms, that will show up in the review.

This may sound as though too much stock is being put into other’s opinions. But quality, clean resorts will generally have reviews that reflect that. Ignoring bad reviews will only set yourself up for frustration and disappointment.