Why A Longer Stay At An All-Inclusive Resort Might Be Better For Your Budget
All-inclusive resorts are often perceived as the pinnacle of luxury, but they can actually be quite affordable. Sure, there are over-the-top luxurious resorts that require you to drop thousands per night, but there are also many that offer packages more aligned with your budget. If you do find one that works for you, the convenience of staying in them is pretty tough to beat. You don't have to worry about planning your day-to-day, and most — if not all — of the costs are paid upfront, so there's no surprise bill at the end of your stay.
Now, if you're concerned about costs and are looking to find accommodations on a budget, there's a way to get more value for your money: booking an extended stay. It may seem counterintuitive since staying at an establishment for a longer period usually means paying for more nights, but just like with hotels, there are all-inclusive resorts that throw discounts and perks at those who linger. While a short stint of three to five days might seem sufficient to soak up the sun and shamelessly overindulge in the buffet, stretching your stay can nab you some sweet deals like extra discounts, resort credits, and more. You've traveled that far anyway, so why not prolong your getaway just a tiny bit more in exchange for perks?
Some resorts offer incentives for extended stays
Ever heard stories of retirees living in hotels? They've probably inked a pretty sweet long-term deal with the establishment. It's not uncommon for hotels to offer deep discounts to guests booking extended stays, and all-inclusive resorts are no exception. For example, the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel in Riviera Maya offers extra perks to guests who book a stay of seven nights or more. Extended-stay guests get to enjoy additional discounts on their rooms, complimentary spa treatments, access to private experiences, free long-distance calls, and more. Similarly, Hilton has what you call the "Stay Longer in Paradise" offer in their resorts across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii. It offers an additional 20% discount for bookings meeting certain duration criteria, typically ranging from three to seven days.
Sometimes, it's not just the resorts themselves that provide extra perks. JetBlue Vacations, for instance, gives away at least $125 worth of resort perks to travelers booking a minimum 4-night stay and packages that include flights and hotel stays. The benefits can manifest as resort credits, room upgrades, and welcome gifts, among others.
Obviously, different resorts offer different packages and varying minimum nights of stay, but generally, booking for an extended period yields access to privileges not available to the typical guest. But it goes without saying that when considering this option, it's important to read the fine print. These offers can be compelling, but it's essential to scrutinize the details to ensure that the package aligns with your budget and vacation expectations.
But be wary about your spending inside and outside the resort
Opting for an extended stay at an all-inclusive resort? Great! You'll get to veg around by the pool for longer and indulge in all the free margaritas you can chug. With the luxury of a longer stay comes the challenge of managing your expenses wisely. The novelty of your initial package's offerings may eventually wear thin, tempting you to splurge on things like extra amenities, gourmet dining experiences, or excursions.
You might even decide to venture outside the property, which may lead to even more unplanned spending on local attractions and restaurants. Remember, a longer stay grants you more chances to spend, so you have to be more mindful. Otherwise, you'll only be counteracting the financial benefits of whatever deal that came with your extended stay.
To combat this, actively seek further savings during your stay. Honeymoon travel expert Jim Campbell shared with GoBankingRates that all-inclusive resorts sometimes have hidden deals up their sleeves that are available for those who ask. "When you arrive, go straight to the front desk and ask if they have any special deals or last-minute discounts available," he advised. "Sometimes they'll offer you a free upgrade or even an extra day for free!"