All‑Inclusive Resort Cost: What You’ll Actually Pay

Thinking about an all‑inclusive resort? You probably picture unlimited food, drinks and activities, but the price tag can be confusing. Let’s strip away the jargon and show you the real numbers you’ll see on the booking page, plus the hidden extras that often pop up.

Typical Price Breakdown

Most resorts publish a per‑night rate that includes three meals, a selection of alcoholic drinks and basic activities. In 2025 the average cost in popular sun‑belt destinations runs like this:

• Room rate: £100‑£250 per night for a standard double.
• Food & drink: Included in the room rate, but premium restaurants, specialty cocktails and premium wines usually carry a surcharge of £10‑£30 per person.
• Taxes & fees: Expect a 12‑% tourist tax and a £5‑£15 resort fee per night.
• Excursions: Most on‑site activities are covered, but off‑site tours, water‑sports equipment rentals and spa treatments are billed separately.

So a £180 per‑night package can end up at £210‑£235 once taxes, resort fees and optional extras are added. The total for a week‑long stay often lands between £1,400 and £1,800 for two people, not counting flights.

How to Save Money

Now that you know where the cost hides, here are practical ways to trim the bill without losing the all‑inclusive vibe.

• Book early, stay flexible: Early‑bird deals lock in lower rates, especially for off‑peak weeks. If you can shift your dates by a few days, you might save 15‑20%.
• Check the drink policy: Some resorts limit premium alcohol to a set number of drinks per day. If you prefer cocktails, look for “premium all‑inclusive” options or bring a small allowance for extra bottles.
• Use the resort’s free activities: Instead of paying for a private dive or guided tour, join the scheduled yoga classes, beach volleyball or nightly entertainment that are already covered.
• Watch the tax and fee details: A few resorts waive the tourist tax if you stay longer than a week. Call the property to confirm before you book.
• Compare package inclusions: One resort may include airport transfers, another may charge for it. Add those costs together to find the true cheapest offer.

Finally, read recent guest reviews. Travelers often mention hidden costs like “extra charge for bottled water” or “limited beach towels”. Knowing these quirks helps you decide whether the advertised price is truly a bargain.

Bottom line: an all‑inclusive resort can be a great way to control vacation spending, but you still need to add taxes, resort fees and any premium upgrades to the headline price. Do the math, compare a few options, and pick the one that gives you the most value for the money you’re ready to spend.