Veteran all-inclusive resort worker shares 25+ mistakes every traveler should avoid

Heading to an all-inclusive resort provides the best of both worlds: a fantastic vacation with someone else managing all the details. With insights from a Club Med International Resorts entertainment director, these tips can turn your stay from a potential disaster into the trip of a lifetime.

Thinking that “all-inclusive” means everything is included

Despite the label “all-inclusive,” many resorts don’t cover everything. The specific inclusions vary based on the resort, your membership, and the package booked. Common exclusions encompass airport transportation, spa treatments, premium alcohol, and room Wi-Fi (often free in common areas). Some amenities may be partially included; for example, water sports might be covered, but renting motorized equipment could incur extra charges. While you’ll be informed of additional fees when booking services or activities, inattentiveness may lead to surprises on the final bill. This applies to all-inclusive cruises as well.

Not researching the resort before you go

Even within the same chain, each all-inclusive resort differs in culture, dining, amenities, and excursions. Discovering these distinctions shouldn’t be left to the day of arrival. Being aware of what to anticipate enhances your experience, allowing you to plan activities, make reservations promptly, and pack accordingly for the weather and available options. It also plays a crucial role in managing expectations. Some guests arrive with grand expectations, only to be disappointed because they haven’t researched the resort beforehand and realized that not everything they envisioned is available.

Overtipping or undertipping

Navigating tipping at all-inclusive resorts can be complex. While regular services often include gratuities, guests might tip for exceptional service or special requests. “Extra” services not in the package, like spa treatments, may require a separate tip. Since the pandemic, tipping norms have changed, with some places now expecting tips even for standard services. However, customs vary globally; in Japan, for instance, tipping at all-inclusive resorts is not customary.

Overindulging in food and drinks

Having unlimited access to food and drinks doesn’t mean it’s wise to overindulge. Despite the temptation to consume excessive amounts, as all items are typically included, some guests mistakenly believe it’s a way to maximize their value. However, I’ve witnessed individuals suffering the consequences, spending entire days bedridden after overeating or excessive drinking, causing them to miss out on other enjoyable activities.

Staying at the resort the whole time

While it’s possible to stay in your room and relish the tranquility, the allure of an all-inclusive resort lies in its offerings beyond mere relaxation. Surprisingly, some guests fail to seize the opportunities provided by the resort and its surrounding areas. These locations are often situated in places renowned for their beauty, culture, favorable weather, and adventure possibilities. Overlooking these aspects would be a missed opportunity to fully experience what the destination has to offer.

Sticking to the standard buffet

They strive to deliver delightful, unique dining experiences that capture the essence and flavors of the local culture. It goes beyond offering local delicacies; it might involve special cooking methods, witnessing the chef in action, exploring the origins of the food, or engaging in a distinctive dining experience. While enjoying hamburgers and fries is acceptable, it’s important to recognize that a significant part of what you’re paying for includes the rich and diverse culinary offerings that contribute to the overall experience.

Not making a connection with the staff

Repeat guests often build relationships with resort staff, leading to special perks and valuable local insights. Even for one-time visitors, showing kindness to all staff members enhances the overall experience and may result in exceptional treatment, making it a key tip for all-inclusive resorts.

Being glued to your phone

Many people miss out on the joy of the moment by constantly focusing on their phones. Remember, you’re on vacation for a reason—to escape daily life—so let it be a magical experience. Appreciate the beauty of nature around you, watch your children play, enjoy a cocktail with your spouse (especially at romantic resorts), attend performances, and hit the dance floor at the nightclub. Embrace the present and savor the unique moments.

Not getting traveler’s insurance

Vacations require planning for the unexpected, and that includes ensuring you have sufficient insurance coverage and understanding how to utilize it. While resort insurance typically covers issues under their direct control like mechanical malfunctions, equipment failures, and schedule changes, it may not extend to weather-related disasters, personal medical emergencies, accidents, injuries, flight cancellations, and other potential disruptions to your vacation and budget. Be prepared by securing comprehensive coverage that aligns with your travel needs.

Dressing too casually

While swimsuits and flip-flops may be the norm in certain areas of an all-inclusive resort in Hawaii, it’s important to note that upscale dining and shows often have specific dress codes. To attend these venues, at the very least, you may need slacks or a sundress and real shoes. Failure to adhere to the dress code might result in being turned away, so it’s advisable to be aware of and comply with the resort’s clothing requirements for different activities.

Ignoring safety guidelines

Some guests may believe that weather advisories, public health mandates (such as wearing masks), and safety rules are meant for others, not them. However, these guidelines are in place not to spoil your fun but to ensure your safety so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Ignoring these rules can pose risks and potentially ruin your holiday experience. It’s essential to adhere to safety guidelines for your well-being and the enjoyment of your time at the resort.

Getting dehydrated

Heatstroke has unfortunately spoiled many tropical vacations. With tempting beverages at your disposal, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated, a situation exacerbated by increased outdoor activities, neglecting sun protection, and indulging in salty snacks. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, irritability, or, in severe cases, serious illness. This is particularly crucial when traveling to climates significantly hotter or drier than what you’re accustomed to.

Not consulting the schedule

The resort’s daily schedule not only informs you about planned events but also unveils spontaneous additions like shows, excursions, or dining experiences. Even if you’ve done prior research, resorts often introduce new activities. Some are on a first-come, first-serve basis, while others necessitate advance reservations. Popular activities, such as a city riverboat tour, can fill up quickly, sometimes before breakfast ends. Take note of one-time events, like special show performances, and prioritize booking them early to ensure you don’t miss out on unique experiences during your stay.

Forgetting medications or vaccinations

Resorts typically have onsite medical staff to address common vacation ailments or emergencies. However, it’s essential to understand that they may not stock your prescription medications or manage chronic illnesses. Additionally, some resorts enforce vaccine mandates, and for vaccines to be effective, they need to be administered well before your arrival. For example, a series of two typhoid vaccines is often required for South Asian countries, and these vaccinations must be completed at least one week before your scheduled arrival.

Booking the first resort package you find

All-inclusive resorts come with a higher price tag than regular resorts due to the convenience of handling every aspect of your vacation. However, this makes it crucial to carefully choose the resort, package, and membership level (if applicable). If you’re on a budget and fail to compare options, you might end up paying more than desired because certain elements you desire may not be included.

Forgetting sunscreen

A surefire way to spoil a romantic vacation or a girls’ weekend getaway is to suffer from a painful sunburn. A common oversight involves neglecting to apply waterproof sunscreen on areas not covered by the swimsuit, particularly for women or men in Speedos when snorkeling. Sunburns acquired after a day of ocean swimming can be excruciating, given that the sun not only shines from above but is also reflected from the water’s surface. This oversight can lead to discomfort while sitting and sleeping, putting a damper on the overall experience.

Not using your points or miles

Many credit card, airline, hotel, corporate, or other rewards programs offer perks at all-inclusive resorts, such as free upgrades, additional nights, bonus excursions, transportation, and other enjoyable freebies. However, these benefits only materialize if you remember to utilize them. If you’re not prompted to provide this information during the booking process, ensure to proactively ask customer service to confirm that your membership details are on file, securing the perks associated with your rewards program.

Expecting the staff to babysit your kids

All-inclusive family resorts cater to families with kids of all ages, providing opportunities for shared experiences and some independent time. While many resorts offer childcare or classes for kids, it’s essential to be aware of the rules, including any age restrictions, and the specific times these services are available. It’s crucial to understand that the label “family” and “all-inclusive” doesn’t guarantee that staff members will supervise your kids at all times or that babysitting services are available 24/7.

Not taking advantage of room service

While room service may be an expensive option at regular hotels, it’s a standout feature at all-inclusive resorts. In most cases, you can order anything off the menu 24/7 and have it delivered to your room at no additional cost. Some exceptions may apply, such as extra fees for special meals, off-hours delivery, or alcohol. This amenity is particularly advantageous for families with young children or individuals who enjoy having breakfast in bed.