All-inclusive vacations sound perfect because you pay one price & get everything you need for an amazing getaway, although these deals aren’t as all-inclusive as they seem. Sometimes, this is because there are surprise fees or activities that cost extra, meaning you end up spending more than you planned. Here are thirteen specific ‘all-inclusive’ deals that don’t cover as much as you’d expect. That’s not to say you shouldn’t do them—but you should be aware of what you’re actually paying for.
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Sandals Resorts Charging for Off-Property Excursions
Sandals Resorts are famous for their luxurious all-inclusive packages that promise an unforgettable vacation experience—but it’s not as good as you might think. Anyone hoping to explore attractions like Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica will have to pay extra because these popular excursions aren’t part of the all-inclusive deal. Most guests assume everything is covered and discovering additional costs for these activities is a bit of a letdown so keep this in mind.
Club Med’s Premium Activities Come at a Cost
Club Med has all-inclusive packages that include all sorts of fun activities, although certain premium experiences like private sailing lessons or deep-sea fishing trips aren’t included. You’ll have to pay extra fees for these special options and if you have your heart set on a premium activity, make sure to check whether it’s part of the deal before you go. You don’t want to be disappointed when you finally get there and learn you need to pay more!
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Specialty Dining Fees
Norwegian Cruise Line’s ‘Free at Sea’ has plenty of tempting perks but dining at specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse will cost extra, even though you might receive a dining credit as part of your package. But this often doesn’t cover the full cost of these upscale eateries and that’s why so many guests end up disappointed. You should read the fine print to avoid any unexpected charges during your cruise.
Beaches Resorts Excluding Scuba Certification Courses
At Beaches Resorts, scuba diving is part of the all-inclusive package and that sounds great for adventure seekers—but only for those who are already certified divers. If that’s not you, you’ll need to pay extra for the certification courses because these aren’t included in the standard rate. You should budget additional funds if you’re keen to go scuba diving.
Riu Hotels Charging for Premium Wi-Fi
Staying connected is important for most travelers and Riu Hotels advertise free Wi-Fi as part of its all-inclusive packages. But the catch is that the complimentary Wi-Fi is basic & not usually suitable for streaming or video calls, so you’ll have to pay extra for high-speed internet. It’s quite frustrating for guests who expect full internet access to be included—why should you pay more money for something so basic?!
Secrets Resorts Limiting Restaurant Access
Secrets Resorts have all-inclusive packages that seem to include unlimited dining options, although the reality is that not everything on the menu is included, like certain drinks. They don’t always make this clear when you book your stay and any guests who expect to try food or drink at any time will be disappointed. You should always ask about dining specifics before finalizing your reservation—at least you’ll know what you’re getting!
Carnival Cruise Line’s Beverage Packages Exclude Specialty Coffees
Carnival Cruise Line advertises its drinks program as an all-inclusive package, which is why it’s so appealing to many people. However, any coffee enthusiast craving a specialty brew from JavaBlue Café or other onboard coffee bars is out of luck because they’ll need to pay extra. The package doesn’t cover these specialty coffees—be prepared for the fees that come from starting your day with a latte or cappuccino.
All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun Not Covering Airport Transfers
When booking an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, you’d assume that everything is taken care of—but many resorts don’t include transportation to & from the airport. This is especially true for those along the popular Hotel Zone and guests are responsible for arranging & paying for their own transfers. Plan ahead and factor in the cost of a taxi or shuttle service so you’re not caught off guard when you get there.
Hard Rock Hotels Charging for Rock Spa Treatments
Hard Rock Hotels promote an all-inclusive experience that covers almost everything you need for a rockin’ vacation, although that doesn’t include any massages & spa treatments at their Rock Spa. These aren’t part of the standard package and that’s why you should check the details beforehand. Finding out spa treatments aren’t included may cause you more stress—that’s exactly the opposite of what they’re supposed to do for you.
Royal Caribbean’s ‘Deluxe Beverage Package’ Excluding Mini-Bar Items
Royal Caribbean offers a ‘Deluxe Beverage Package’ that allows guests to enjoy a wide variety of drinks throughout the ship. However, beverages in your stateroom mini-bar aren’t included and that means getting a soda from your cabin’s mini-fridge is another charge. It’s quite surprising for guests who thought all drinks were covered under the package.
Moon Palace Resort Excluding Golf Green Fees
Moon Palace Resort in Cancun is quite popular with travelers looking for an all-inclusive getaway—especially for golfers, given the resort’s impressive golf course. But green fees aren’t included in the all-inclusive package and anyone who wants to play a round will need to pay extra. You should always check the fees before packing your clubs so you’re able to plan your vacation budget accordingly!
Dreams Resorts & Spas Has Extra Fees for Dolphin Encounters
Dreams Resorts & Spas includes almost everything in one price, although experiences with dolphins often cost more, even though this onsite attraction is a big draw for families. You’ll need to check the details on live animal programs ahead of time to avoid last-minute charges & make sure these activities are available. Nobody wants a surprise bill popping up when they’re already set on a once-in-a-lifetime encounter!
Barceló Maya Resort Charges for Bowling and Surf Simulator
At the Barceló Maya, certain extras such as bowling lanes & the FlowRider surf simulator aren’t always included in the all-inclusive rate. Lots of visitors show up expecting to do any activity without opening their wallets—you should read up on entertainment before you go. Those costs add up quickly when you’re feeling adventurous!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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