Should you book an all-inclusive holiday?

What does all-inclusive mean?

Experience the ultimate convenience with an all-inclusive holiday. These comprehensive packages encompass every aspect of your trip, from seamless travel arrangements to comfortable accommodation. Indulge in delectable dining options and refreshing beverages, all included in a one-off fee. Engage in exciting activities and rest assured knowing that childcare services are also provided. Say goodbye to unexpected costs and enjoy a worry-free vacation. So, if you want to holiday on a fixed budget without denying yourself simple pleasures along the way, all-inclusive could be for you.

If lengthy holiday planning fills you with more dread than delight, fully inclusive holidays can certainly be a brilliant, faff-free option. 

It's no surprise the market's competitive. You can go all-inclusive with major tour operators such as Thomson, First Choice and Crystal, with smaller, niche companies like Mark Warner, and even with individual hotels.

Are all-inclusive holidays worth it?

While all-inclusive can mean everything you'd ever want is 'free' – from waterskiing to childcare and, in some cases, champagne on tap – there's a flipside. Not every all-inclusive holiday will have table service – often they'll be buffet-style affairs at specific times, which can be brilliant for fussier eaters, but quality varies from one hotel to the next.

Your drinks may be limited to a restricted menu – perhaps some beers, wines and soft drinks – so check before you book if you're after more choice.

Look carefully at the rates for all-inclusive resorts situated away from a town in their own campus, with excursions at extra cost – this isn't a good choice if you're a culture vulture. One of the benefits of coastal campus resorts, however, is they often have their own stretches of beach and sun loungers for guests.

If you're going to a campus resort, and transfers to and from the airport aren't included, make sure they're easy and affordable.

Not sure which holiday destination to pick for your all inclusive holiday? Take a look at our holiday destination guide for some inspiration.

Are all-inclusive holidays good value for families?

If you’re looking to go away as a family and you’re the kind to make use of all the freebies, an all-inclusive holiday is well worth your while, says Jane Anderson (@FamTravEditor), editor of Family Traveller.

'But it is worth asking people who have actually visited the resort for their feedback before making your decision,' she says.

More attractive activities, such as sailing and scuba diving, often sit behind an extra pay wall, but, says Jane, this is starting to change.

'Increasingly, the term all-inclusive is becoming more impressive, as companies vie with one another to attract holidaymakers,' she says.

What to do if my all-inclusive holiday isn't as described?

If you've booked an all-inclusive holiday and the reality is different to what was described (and pictured) in the brochure, you may be covered under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. Which? offers advice on your rights and how to complain. 

But this is a worst-case scenario. If you want to let someone else take the strain of organising and have a variety of activities at your fingertips, all-inclusive holidays are a great choice – especially in the current financial climate with poor exchange rates.

But one final word of warning: if you like peace and quiet, check what entertainment the hotel offers and at what time – I once found myself on an all-inclusive health retreat at an upmarket hotel in Turkey with booming music from discos and karaoke until 2am every morning. Not relaxing at all! 

For more travel tips, whether you're going all-inclusive or self-catering, follow @abi_butcher on X.

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