Want to make the most of your vacation budget? All-inclusive resorts are a great option, but not everything comes as advertised and these 5 secrets you need to know about all-inclusive resorts before booking may surprise you!

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If you’re like most people, the words “all-inclusive resort” probably conjure up images of pristine beaches, exotic cocktails, and lazy days spent lounging by the pool. 

Psst……Can I Tell You A Secret?

And while that’s certainly part of the all-inclusive experience, there’s a lot more to be enjoyed than what’s advertised to everybody else! 

Two girls laughing at shared secrets

If you’re like us and love getting a deal, make the most of your next family vacation with these 5 secrets we’ve uncovered that you probably never knew about all-inclusive resorts.

woman making a hush gesture after sharing a secret

Secrets that All-Inclusive Resorts Don’t Want You to Know

We’ve uncovered 5 secrets about all-inclusive resorts that you don’t want to miss out on.


1. The Top Secret Hospitality Suite

Hotel staff opening door to secret hospitality suite.

Perfect For Late Departure Flights

For families who snagged a great deal on their all-inclusive holiday, this typically means an inconvenient arrival and departure flight time.  Many resorts have a hospitality suite and you may be able to request a hospitality suite for your family. 

These suites are not typically advertised by resorts and if you have a late flight out of your resort destination, this perk will definitely be a lifesaver and allow you to soak up those extra rays of sun.

Bathroom at an all-inclusive resort for families
Photo Courtesy of: Max Vakhtbovych

Hospitality suites typically include a bedroom, bathroom, and living area, and they are usually located near the resort’s lobby or main entrance. 

To request a hospitality suite at your resort, simply ask the front desk staff or concierge when you check in. If the resort has availability, they will be happy to accommodate your request.

2. Dining Secret – Restaurant Reservations Are UNLIMITED

Fancy dinner being prepared by a chef at a resort.

One of the best parts of going on vacation is not having to worry about preparing a meal.  All-inclusive resorts offer a wide array of dining options, including a la carte restaurants and buffet options.

The Secret to Avoiding the Buffet

If your preference is to be pampered with white glove table service rather than join the crowd at the communal buffet, you may be disappointed when you read the fine print.

While some resorts limit the number of restaurant reservations you can make during your stay, there are always tables available if you know who to ask and how to ask for them. 

Concierge service sign at hotel front desk.

Here’s what you need to know: 

1. Find out who your concierge is and introduce yourself. A good concierge will remember your name and preferences, which will come in handy when making restaurant reservations. Arrive ready with a tip, this is key to securing those coveted reservations.  How much depends on how large your group is and how many reservations you are in search of.

2. When you want to make a reservation, call or visit the concierge desk and ask if they can help you. Be sure to mention any special dietary requirements or preferences (e.g., “I’d like a table by the window”). 

3. If the concierge is unable to get you a reservation at your first choice restaurant, don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions of other restaurants that may have availability. 

3. A Shocking Secret – The Beds Aren’t Always Clean

Room service preparing bed for guests.

If you’re used to staying in hotels where the maid service leaves the room spotless, you might be in for a surprise at an all-inclusive resort.

Don’t expect the bed to be fully clean – most resorts only change the sheets and pillowcases and rarely ever wash the duvet or mattress cover.

This is not uncommon and of course, this doesn’t mean that the resort staff is being negligent. It’s simply a reality of having so many people staying in one place. 

With hundreds of people coming and going each day, it’s impossible to keep the beds spotless all the time.

So, if you’re someone who likes things to be absolutely clean, you might want to have some more of those hard-earned dollars in hand before requesting a freshly steamed duvet.  Employees are known to brag and you can be sure that your concierge is chatting it up with the maid.

4. The Secret is in the Timing – Room Upgrades

Upgraded oceanfront room at beach resort.
Photo Courtesy of: Leonardo Rossatti

One of the best parts about all-inclusive resorts is that they offer everything you need in one place – including luxurious accommodations.  

If you want to upgrade your room, the best way to do it is to ask at the front desk when you check-in. You can always ask for an upgrade when you make your reservation, but the chances are low that the operator will oblige. 

Front desk at luxury resort
Photo Courtesy of: Dylan Calluy

When you first arrive, stop by the front desk and introduce yourself.  Rather than hold a fistful of dollars in hand, it would serve you well to strategically place your wallet in front of you as you politely ask if there are any upgrades available.

Man pulling out wallet to tip front desk at hotel.
Photo Courtesy of: Clay banks

If you’re starting to get squirmy about the added cost,  just remember that you probably saved at least $200 per person, $800 for a family of four, to stay in a basic room. If all it took was a $100 to snag that swim out room, you just saved your family $700!

3. This Shouldn’t be a Secret – Resort Employees are People Too

Hotel employee delivering room service

One of the main reasons that resorts are able to keep their costs down is because they rely on their employees to do a lot of the work. 

This means that the employees are often overworked and underpaid. As a result, they can be resentful of guests who are difficult to please or who they feel are taking advantage of them. 

Politeness and Respect Don’t Have Vacations

reminder sign to be kind to others

If you are planning a trip to an all-inclusive resort, it is important to be aware of this potential issue. If you are polite and respectful to the staff, they will likely return the favor. However, if you are rude or demanding, they may very well gossip about you and try to ruin your vacation in ways you wouldn’t expect at a luxury all-inclusive resort.

To avoid this, try to be as easygoing as possible with any issues that may arise and don’t make any waves during your stay. 

If you do have any problems, make light of the situation and ask yourself if it’s really worth complaining about.  For more serious issues, take them up with the management directly and don’t involve the employees. 

What to expect at an All-Inclusive Resort

Lounge bed at an all inclusive resort

If you’ve never been to an all-inclusive resort before, you might be wondering what to expect. Before booking your next holiday, here are a few things you can expect when staying at an all-inclusive resort:

1. Accommodations, Meals & Drinks are Included

Resorts typically include your lodging, meals, snacks, drinks (including alcohol), and activities in the price of your stay.

2. Most All-Inclusive Resorts are Located in Tropical Destinations 

Expect beautiful weather all year round but beware of hurricane season that runs from June – November.

3. Wide Range of Activities and Amenities 

Many all-inclusive resorts have upgraded their offerings on top of their standard activities, including surf simulators, bumper car facilities, zip lining, escape rooms, all to ensure you have the best vacation of your life.

4. Great Value

Because everything is included in the price of your stay, all-inclusive resorts can be a great value for your money and can provide a peace of mind to know that you won’t have a large bill when you get back everyday life.

5. Kid-Friendly Facilities 

All-inclusive resorts are typically very family-friendly, so if you’re traveling with kids they’ll have plenty of things to keep them occupied. Parents can finally enjoy some grown-up time by taking advantage of free childcare!

What to Pack for an All-Inclusive Holiday?

Woman's packed suitcase for a beach holiday.

All-inclusive resorts are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason! They offer a great value for your money and provide a stress-free vacation experience. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when packing for an all-inclusive resort:

1. Lightweight Clothing

All-inclusive resorts typically have laundry facilities on-site, so you won’t need to pack a lot of clothes.  Pack clothes that can be layered for those unpredictable chilly nights by the beach.

2. Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

Many all-inclusive resorts have these items available for purchase, but they can be quite expensive and can eat into your holiday budget. Make sure you stock up before heading south!

3. Beach Gear

For families with little kids, be sure to pack inflatable floaties, blow-up armbands, and beach buckets with shovels.  This will ensure endless hours of fun in the sun while you can lounge and work on that tan uninterrupted. Like sunscreen, the resort will have plenty of options for purchase, and can quickly add up.

How to Save Money on Your Next All-Inclusive Holiday

A sign that shows a great deal.
Photo Courtesy of: Ave Calvar

When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, there are a few money-saving ideas that may surprise you. Here are a few tips to help you save some cash on your next all-inclusive vacation:

Book During the Off-Season

One of the best ways to save money on an all-inclusive vacation is to book during the off-season. Rates will be significantly lower and there will be fewer people at the resort.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Many all-inclusive resorts offer a variety of free activities, such as yoga classes, dance lessons, and cooking demonstrations. Be sure to take advantage of these activities to maximize your savings.

Skip the Spa Treatments

While it may be tempting to indulge in a massage or other spa treatment while on vacation, this is often one of the most expensive items on the resort’s menu. 

If you’re looking to save money, skip the spa treatments and stick to more affordable options like manicures and pedicures.

Drink Local Alcohol

Premium alcohol can be one of the biggest expenses at an all-inclusive resort, so if you’re looking to save some cash, stick to drinking local alcohol instead of imported brands. Not only will this be cheaper, but you might also discover your next favourite drink.

Everybody Loves A Good Secret

Woman buying a family vacation online at a discount.
Photo Courtesy of: Karolina Grabowska

Now that you know all of these secrets about all-inclusive resorts, you can go into your next all-inclusive vacation with your eyes wide open. 

Be sure to take advantage of everything that your resort has to offer, and don’t be afraid to ask questions so that you can get the most out of your experience. 

With a little research and planning, you can have an incredible all-inclusive vacation that you’ll never forget. Thanks for reading!