When life settles into an endless grind of tasks and decisions, an all-inclusive vacation starts to sound like a dream. No worries. No stress. The hardest choice you’ll have to make is which restaurant to try for dinner.

But are all-inclusive resorts really worth it? Are you guaranteed to get your money’s worth and enjoy the experience? First, consider these key factors:

1. Value

Are all-inclusive resorts worth the money? Some budget-conscious travelers like the fact that almost all costs are known and paid ahead of time. You can find deals on all-inclusive vacation packages with airfare included, plus extras like free nights and resort coupons for spa treatments and excursions.

However, you’re probably not saving money by going all-inclusive. When Oyster compared two similar luxury resorts in Cancún, it found that a couple could save $653 to $1,073 by choosing the a la carte option for a three-night stay. The upshot: “Travelers who expect to spend time outside the resort and don’t plan on drinking more than three drinks/day will likely find the non all-inclusive resort the better value.”¹

Pro tip: Be aware that all-inclusive doesn’t literally mean “everything is included.” Beyond the basic rate, you’ll have to pay for gratuities and resort fees, as well as extras such as top-shelf alcohol, premium restaurant meals, spa services, motorized watersports, and more. Also, cancellation policies for all-inclusive packages tend to be strict, and some trips are non-refundable. That’s why trip cancellation insurance is a must.

2. Vibe

What do you love most about going on vacation? If your favorite memories all involve experiencing local culture, trying unfamiliar foods, and exploring new places, then all-inclusive probably isn’t for you. If you just want to relax, not think, and do whatever you feel like, an all-inclusive resort is a dream come true.

Pro tip: Most all-inclusive vacations do involve some planning. Higher-end restaurants typically require reservations, requiring you to call early in the morning to get a prime table that night.

3. Location

The value equation depends a lot on your destination. What’s the local cost of living? How safe is it? How easy is it to get around? For example:

• Is all-inclusive worth it in Punta Cana? It’s pretty much your only option, because of safety concerns and a lack of tourist infrastructure.
• Is all-inclusive worth it in Aruba? Some frequent travelers say no. Aruba’s a safe island that’s easy to navigate, so why not experience all that it has to offer?
• Is all-inclusive worth it in Thailand? You’ll pay a lot more for the privilege of staying at an all-inclusive resort, compared to buying your food and lodging separately.

Pro tip: If you like staying in an urban or resort-town environment where you can walk to bars and restaurants, don’t go all-inclusive. You’ll have a lot more fun trying local spots. If you’d rather be in a remote spot, then all-inclusive may be the only way to go.

Is all-inclusive worth it if you’re traveling with kids?

Some parents absolutely love the all-inclusive experience because it offers a customized vacation experience for every age. Little ones can go to an on-site sitter. School-aged children can spend their day in the kids’ club. Tweens and teens can safely roam the resort on their own. And parents can enjoy some blissful time to themselves.

However, every family’s different. Your shy 7-year-old may hate the noisy fun of the kids’ club. Your boundary-pushing 16-year-old may get into trouble if left to their own devices. And parents may find they just can’t relax when traveling with a baby or toddler.

Here’s another important question some parents overlook: What do you want your children to take away from the vacation? After staying at an all-inclusive resort, they may think international travel is all about unlimited French fries and virgin piña coladas. They’re getting few opportunities to experience a new culture and see real-world places.

Is all-inclusive worth it if you’re traveling with extended family?

All-inclusive resorts are ideal for a multigenerational family trip. That’s because the toughest part of traveling with a big group is the decision-making. Some members want to read on the beach, some want to spend the day sailing and snorkeling, and others want to kick back at the bar. An all-inclusive resort removes the pressure to plan things together. Instead, everyone can bounce around, do their own thing, and reconnect over meals.

Is all-inclusive worth it if you’re a foodie?

Probably not. The food at an all-inclusive resort, even high-end spots, tends to be basic, geared toward tourists’ tastes, and somewhat repetitive. Some resorts have specialty restaurants on site that serve things like steak, lobster, and sushi—but you’ll have to pay extra. Travelers who enjoy authentic local cuisine are better off booking a non-inclusive hotel.

Is all-inclusive worth it for people with dietary restrictions?

It depends on the specific restriction. All-inclusive resorts can be a smart choice for people with food allergies, for instance. The biggest benefit, according to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), is peace of mind: “You will have potentially fewer staff to communicate with, instead of facing the uncertainty of a brand-new restaurant for every meal of your trip.”^2 Just make sure you choose a resort or a chain that’s known for accommodating allergies, and tell staff about your allergies every time you dine.

What if you’re vegan or vegetarian? All-inclusive resorts will generally have dining options for guests who don’t eat meat or animal products, although you might find yourself eating the same meals over and over again. Travelers willing to splurge will find luxury all-inclusive resorts that cater exclusively to vegan and vegetarian tastes — not only on the menu, but in their toiletries and textiles.

Is all-inclusive worth it if you don’t drink alcohol?

This is a topic that divides travelers. Some say, “No way. Why pay for drinks you’re not having?”

Some say, “Of course! It’s about the relaxing, all-inclusive experience. It doesn’t matter if you don’t drink.”

Luckily, many resorts offer all-inclusive plans with a non-alcoholic option. If you don’t drink because you’re in recovery, or if you prefer not to be around people who are over-imbibing, consider an alcohol-free all-inclusive vacation. Many wellness resorts don’t serve alcohol on the premises. Sober travel companies also organize group resort vacations and tours, often with 12-step meetings included.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About the Sober Travel Trend

One last thing: Don’t forget your travel insurance! Discover why more than 70 million travelers each year trust Allianz Travel Insurance to protect their biggest adventures—whether all-inclusive or not.

Related Articles

• 10 Life-Changing Destinations for Wellness Travel
• Everything You Need to Know About the Sober Travel Trend
• The Insider's Guide to Shoulder Season Travel