Since the rise of the package holiday, all-inclusive packages have also become popular. As a result, for your next holiday, you are spoilt for choice for all-inclusive deals - where you know all your costs are paid upfront. While these holidays may not be for everyone, going to an all-inclusive resort could be the ideal solution if you're after something easy and stress-free.
Whether you're looking for a solo holiday, an adults-only getaway, or an all-inclusive package for the whole family, our selection of holiday providers has you covered. Click below to start your holiday search!
The best destinations for all-inclusive holidays
If you're after the perfect holiday, you may not immediately consider choosing an all-inclusive holiday package. However, it could be the best decision you ever make. And, with so many options on offer, finding a place ideal for you and fellow holidaymakers is easy. Just pick a destination, make a short list of must-haves, be they childcare, beachfront location, or several swimming pools, and you're halfway there!
Here are our favourite countries to visit for an all-inclusive break.
1. Tenerife and the Canary Islands
While many people may want to steer clear of Tenerife for fear that they'll be on a "Brits on Tour" break, it can be a wonderful place to go on a family holiday, where you'll find many resorts that offer value for money package holidays. Many hotels are family-friendly, so you can enjoy yourself while your kids or grandkids have fun too. So, if you're looking for one of the most reliable places to head for the sun any time of year, give Tenerife a look.
2. Barbados
This beautiful Caribbean Island is a great place to book an all-inclusive holiday. It's the ideal beach holiday location where you can sit on a sun lounger, enjoy a rum punch or two, looking at the stunning turquoise sea. Any kids will love playing in the warm Caribbean while you keep an eye on them from your hotel's bar or restaurant, trying the local fare. Most all-inclusive hotels are in St. Lawrence Gap, but many glitzier places up the West coast can offer all-in packages too.
3. Majorca
Majorica is a stunning holiday destination where you can explore to your heart's content or enjoy doing nothing at your hotel. So whether you're a culture vulture who wants to explore the island's lesser-known spots and pretty towns, or a person who wants to enjoy yourself by staying around your hotel's bars and restaurants, Majorca has the potential to be the backdrop for a memorable holiday.
4. Turkey
All-inclusive resorts in Turkey are great value and often include watersports within their price. So there's no need to budget even more for extra activities before you go. Plus, what's great about many of the stunning resorts in Turkey is that they all offer something for everyone. So while plenty is available in the sea, such as water skiing or wakeboarding, you'll also find places with tennis courts, spas and gourmet food.
5. Greek Islands
If you want to go all-inclusive, the Greek Islands can also offer great value for money. They are an excellent option for effortless relaxation in a location where your drinks and activities are taken care of, so you can enjoy your holiday. In addition, the local people are some of the friendliest you're ever likely to meet. There's a wide selection of all-inclusive hotspots across the Greek Islands.
6. Maldives
The Maldives may not immediately come to mind when you think of all-inclusive holiday destinations. However, an all-inclusive trip is most definitely an option when going to this idyllic part of the world. And going for this type of package can be a financially sound idea. The Maldives aren't usually cheap, so paying for everything upfront can mean you reduce any risk of being stung with sky-high bills when you check out.
Why should I go to an all-inclusive hotel or resort?
All-inclusive holidays allow you to not worry about overspending when you're away. Generally, these holidays include access to kids' clubs, drinks, meals, snacks, and sometimes much more. As everything is handled, you don't have to worry about nasty surprises on your credit card. It means you also don't ever have to consider the often high prices in hotels. As a result, it's less stressful, which is a big bonus when you're going away on holiday to relax!
Can't I just go full board to these top destinations?
Full board may seem like a good option, especially when comparing prices with all-inclusive options. But the little extras you must pay for at resorts and hotels, such as alcoholic drinks at à la carte restaurants, can add up. All-inclusive means you don't have to worry about any of that. All you need to do is just order without worrying that you're overspending at every meal or any time you want to eat, drink, or have a go at a hotel-run activity.
All-inclusive holiday deals - are they worth the hype?
In general, people who book an all-inclusive holiday do so to take advantage of great deals that make these types of breaks good value and take away any stress of extra, unforeseen costs. As most things are included in the price of your holiday as part of your all-inclusive offer, you're free to sit back and enjoy yourself. For that reason, families are often big users of this type of trip. Parents don't have to worry about their kids' wracking up huge bills when abroad, but similarly, it is nice to know that you can fully indulge when you're away.
Plus, as long as you book with a credible agent, these types of holidays will be ATOL protected, so you are financially protected if your travel operator ceases trading before or during your holiday. It's good to ensure this is the case before you book anything. If it's not, check that your holiday is at least ABTA-protected. This protection means if your travel company goes out of business, you'll be entitled to a refund for things like hotel costs.