All Inclusive Resorts—The Pros and Cons

All inclusive resorts sound like a good idea. After all, most people prefer convenient traveling and would prefer to pay one low rate for airfare, hotel stay, resort entertainment and car rental services. Splitting these items up and paying for them individually tends to add up. At least, this is the opinion that resort companies share. However, do the pros truly outweigh the cons for the average consumer?

Let’s consider some of the facts from the consumer’s point of view. Despite the “convenient low price” these all-inclusive offers promise, they can be pricey. It really depends on what your plans for the vacation include. For instance, if you’re going to be staying in a cheap hotel and attempting to enjoy as many free attractions as possible, then this is a very different itinerary than someone who is planning on flying first class, staying at a hotel for two weeks, hitting the casinos, doing the water sport activities, and eating out every night.

Therefore, it’s mainly a question of lifestyle. If you really want to save money then you can do so, even when individually purchasing items on your itinerary. However, for the definitive tourist experience—complete with splurging—then you may find more value in paying one flat rate.

There are other advantages to full resort deals. Some travelers feel safer sticking to one resort location, as they can have their meals, entertainment and lodging all in one spot, avoiding the streets and constant driving involved in most destination trips. Many traveling parents with children see advantages in staying at a resort, especially if there are day camp areas or other childcare facilities (not to mention children eat or stay free deals going on).

If you are a sports enthusiast, then you might want to consider resorts if for no other reason than the free sports packages they offer. Some resorts offer free tennis courts (day or night) as well as golfing packages, or even water sports activities. Water sports activities can be pricey, so a package deal might be worth considering for this reason alone.

Always stop to consider price, but consider the price differential between booking resort deals (which includes the whole shebang of the vacation experience) and individual booking which is straight to the point.