If I close my eyes, I’m back at an all-inclusive resort in Mallorca, Spain, sipping cocktails by the pool. The sun is shining, the ocean breeze is perfect, and the best part? I don’t have to worry about a thing. Meals, drinks, and entertainment are all covered. To this day, it’s one of my favorite vacations, and the convenience was unbeatable. But that got me thinking: are all-inclusive vacations really a good deal for everyone? While some travelers love the stress-free experience, others wonder if they’re overpaying for perks they won’t use.

In this post, we’ll break down what all-inclusive destinations offer, the biggest benefits, possible drawbacks, and tips for getting the best value. Simply put, all-inclusive vacations are travel packages where most (if not all) of your expenses are covered upfront. This usually includes accommodations, meals, drinks, entertainment, and even some activities.  These vacations are especially popular at resorts in tropical destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe, but you’ll also find all-inclusive options on cruises and adventure trips. The United States does not have many truly all-inclusive spots.

Click here to read insights from Alonso Marley, Travel Expert at Skylux Travel.