There are savings to be had when it comes to booking all-inclusive vacations as long as you keep a few things in mind before you do. We’re sharing six tips for keeping the cost down the next time you travel to an all-inclusive resort.
Be flexible with location
If you don’t have your heart set on a specific destination, and you’re okay with being flexible with where you’re going to vacation, you have a better chance of saving on your all-inclusive adventure. For example, at any given time, destinations in Mexico might be cheaper than say, Jamaica. If you’re main criteria are simply sun and sand, compare the average cost of various all-inclusive destinations before making your choice.
Book early
Often, the earlier you book, the more you can save unless you’re planning on going last-minute (see below). Resorts will often offer early booking rates or bonuses, so do some research to see where you can find your best deal. Choose destination eight to 10 months in advance and then watch for those early booking bonuses at resorts in that spot.
Think about timing
If you don’t have kids, avoid booking your trip during Christmas, March break or Easter break. Any time kids are out of school means room rates and flight prices skyrocket. Pick a time when more people will be at home rather than vacationing such as between Thanksgiving and Christmas for more savings. If all you’re after is down time and season doesn’t matter, going somewhere warm in the summer can mean paying a lot less for all-inclusive resorts and flights.
Snap up a last minute deal
If you didn’t book early, and you have a flexible schedule, booking last-minute can cut down on the cost of an all-inclusive vacation considerably. Resorts just want to fill rooms, so you’re likely to see a drop in price for anyone willing to book at the last minute. So if you aren’t picky about location and you can jet off on a whim, you might just save big on your vacation.
Bypass organized excursions
Before you decide on a resort, find out what kinds of activities are included in the rate. If there’s enough to do on the property you won’t have to worry about the need for off-site excursions. Things like snorkelling trips, or other activities where they take you off the property can get expensive so if you want to save, book with a resort that offers enough to keep you busy at no added cost.
Look for family-friendly perks
Many resorts offer perks to entice people with kids to book, so it can pay off to find the ones that offer the most bang for your resort buck. Look for resorts where kids stay and eat free, and that offer kids’ clubs, babysitting services and classes for kids at no extra cost.
Lead photo: Robert Tadlock
