Most of us carefully plan our holidays to fit our pay. Somehow, though, in spite of all of our best intentions, holidays always seem to cost more than we expect. We go each time with a plan in hand, and each time, we come back wondering where all the money went.
Budgeting for the big things like travel and lodging is pretty straightforward. Smaller expenses are usually the cause of unplanned spending. Entertainment, food, and drinks are more difficult to plan well for since these items can be rather spontaneous in nature.
But you can avoid overspending and still feel like you’re treating yourself well. One possible solution is an all-inclusive holiday. Let’s have a look at this type of package, and make this the year when you come back with both happy memories and a few pounds in your wallet.
What’s included in an all-inclusive holiday
All-inclusive holidays can really help you stay within your budget. You pay a fixed rate for all the essentials. You’re all set as long as you don’t spend money outside the resort. If you prefer not to worry about money while vacationing, these types of packages can be ideal.
All-inclusive resorts are really the equivalent of an insurance policy. You pay a set amount in exchange for having access to everything you need, when you need it.
What’s not included in an all-inclusive holiday
With this type of holiday, you won’t have the same level of freedom. Unless you want to pull out your wallet again, you’ll have to confine your food, beverages, and entertainment to the resort. Also, if you decide you don’t like the resort you’ve chosen, you’re stuck with what you’ve got.
Vacationing the more traditional way, you can always check out and head down the street to another hotel if you’re not pleased. Only you know how much that flexibility is worth to you.
Also, you’ve already paid for the package, even if you don’t use it. Be sure you’re going to get your money’s worth. For example, if your idea of a good holiday is sitting on the beach all day and eating one meal a day, you’re going to be paying for a lot more than you’re using with an all-inclusive package. In this case, you might be better off with a traditional holiday.
Consider these ideas to minimise your potential risk when booking an all-inclusive resort:
Look for amenities that suit you
Consider what you want to eat. Do hotdogs and potato chips sound good to you? Maybe you want a holiday that includes gourmet food in a nice restaurant setting.
Some less-expensive places will only provide water, soda, and a few more beverages. Do you want to have access to mixed drinks and fine wine? Many resorts will not include alcoholic beverages unless you pay extra.
Do you enjoy the types of entertainment they offer?
How is the customer service?
Consider the quality of the accommodation
Some resorts are bare bones, while others are extremely plush. Be sure you’re getting the best combination of what you can afford and what you want.
Do your research on the resort
Researching the quality of the resort is the most important task you can undertake before you book your vacation. In the internet age, reviews and suggestions are easy to find. Low-quality establishments have a harder time hiding than ever before.
All in all, an all-inclusive package can be a great way to put a cap on your holiday spending. There are no surprises, and you can eat and drink without worrying about your budget or about how much money you have left.
Vacations commonly result in overspending, but with an all-inclusive package, you can stay in charge of your finances even as you play. Start researching; an all-inclusive holiday might be just the ticket this year.