Is all-inclusive worth it? Who it suits — and the catches

Resort pool umbrellas beside the sea

All-inclusive is brilliant for some holidays and a velvet trap for others. The brochure sells ease. Your job is to price the week you will actually live.

It suits you if…

  • You want fewer decisions and a predictable daily spend.
  • You are travelling with kids who will use the buffet and pool hard.
  • The resort is the destination, not a base for exploring towns.

Skip it if…

  • You care about local restaurants and neighbourhood evenings.
  • You barely drink, and the package price assumes you do.
  • Premium restaurants and water sports still cost extra — read the small print.

Featured photo via Unsplash.