Pros and Cons of All-Inclusive Resorts For Solo Travellers

When travelling solo, there are many things to take into consideration, but choosing the right type of accommodation is crucial. All-inclusive resorts, known for their convenience and luxury, often appeal to travellers who want to relax without worrying about planning meals, activities, or logistics. But are they the right fit for solo adventurers? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts for solo travellers to help you decide.

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Before we dive into the Pros and Cons of an All-Inclusive Resort for solo travellers, let’s take a look at what they are and where you can find them.

An all-inclusive resort is a type of vacation accommodation where the cost includes most, if not all, of your expenses. This typically covers:

• Lodging: Your room or suite.
• Food and drinks: Meals, snacks, and beverages, including alcohol in many cases.
• Activities: Entertainment, sports, and often water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
• Amenities: Use of pools, fitness centers, and other on-site facilities.
• Tips and taxes: Gratuities and local taxes are often included.

These resorts are popular for their convenience, as guests don’t need to worry about budgeting for extras once they arrive. They’re especially common in beach destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and some parts of Europe.

🙂 Pros of All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers

While I admit that all-inclusive resorts aren’t exactly my favourite way to vacation, there are times when I’ve chosen an all-inclusive resort. This is my choice when I just need to get away from it all and have some self-care time for myself.

All-inclusive resorts can be an easy and safe way for solo travellers for various reasons. Let’s take a look at the pros of all-inclusive resorts for solo travellers:

Hassle-Free Experience

One of the primary benefits of choosing an all-inclusive resort is that they handle everything. This includes meals, drinks, activities, and even entertainment.

This setup can be beneficial for solo travellers who want to unwind and avoid the hassle of planning every detail on their own. It’s also a great option for a last minute getaway.

Safety and Security

For those venturing out alone, safety is a top priority. All-inclusive resorts are typically gated and have security personnel on-site. This makes an all-inclusive resort a safer and more secure choice for solo travellers.

JUST ONE TIP: Even though all-inclusive resorts offer more security, it’s still wise to stay in lighted areas when wandering alone at night.

Opportunities to Socialize

It is a common belief that travelling alone can get boring. In my opinion this is a false belief. When travelling solo, there is a tendency to talk to and meet other people more often. Whereas, when travelling with friends or family, people tend to focus more on their fellow travellers.

Many all-inclusive resorts offer group activities like yoga, cooking classes, or snorkeling trips. Participating in these event is a great way to meet other travellers, including fellow solo adventurers.

Budget Predictability

Solo travel can tend to be more expensive, however, with food, drinks, and activities included in one upfront cost, you’ll know exactly how much you’re spending. This is particularly beneficial if you’re sticking to a strict budget.

JUST ONE TIP: When choosing an all-inclusive resort, look for a resort that doesn’t have a single supplement.

Tour Options

Just because you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, doesn’t mean that you can’t visit some of the tourist sites. The majority of all-inclusive resorts have a concierge on site that will pre-arrange tours for you. This is a perfect way to meet new people and to stay safe while out and about.

Relaxation and Convenience

If your goal is to recharge without distractions, all-inclusive resorts are perfect. Lounging by the pool, indulging in spa treatments, or sipping cocktails by the beach are effortless activities at these establishments.

All-Inclusive Resorts are the Perfect Option for Travellers New to Solo Travel

For all of the reasons listed above, an all-inclusive resort is the perfect option for travellers who are new to solo travel. You will be taken care of by the resort from the moment your plane lands, until it’s time to depart.

🙁 Cons of All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travellers

Limited Exploration

All-Inclusive resorts are designed to keep guests on the property. Heck, why wouldn’t you? The fact that all food, beverages, and entertainment is included, can discourage solo travellers from venturing out to explore local culture, cuisine, and attractions on their own. Immersing yourself in the culture of the destination is often the essence of solo travel.

Less Tailored to Solo Travellers

All-inclusive resorts are typically geared toward couples and families. From room setups to activity pairings, solo travellers will often find themselves surrounded by honeymooners or family groups. This can often feel isolating for travellers who travel alone.

I remember when I was in Costa Rica, I really wanted to take a surfing class, however, there had to be a minimum of 2 people. I had befriended some younger couples who I asked to do it with me…..you got it….they declined 🙁 . Unfortunately, I was never able to take that class.

High Cost

While you’re paying for convenience, the price tag of all-inclusive resorts might not always make sense for solo travellers, especially if you don’t drink alcohol or indulge in every activity offered. Pricing for the majority of all-inclusive resorts are based on double occupancy. There are some all-inclusive resorts that offer solo packages where the solo supplement has been waived, but not all do this.

Cookie-Cutter Experience

All-inclusive resorts often provide a standardized experience that may lack the authenticity and adventure that many solo travellers seek. The food and entertainment caters more to international tastes (especially North American) than the local vibe.

JUST ONE TIP: Book a tour or explore the area on your own every second day to avoid boredom.

When eating at an all-inclusive, you will rarely have the opportunity to experience new food. In addition, there are few dining options and you will often find yourself eating at the buffet. The majority of all-inclusive resorts do offer specialty dining restaurants, however, you have to make a reservation in advance. Many resorts will only allow 2 – 3 specialty dining options over a one week stay.

Boredom For Solo Travellers

Even though most solo travellers visit an all-inclusive resort for self-care, it can tend to get boring during the day. If you’re anything like me, you can only sit at the beach or pool and drink for so long before getting antsy. I have made a habit of either booking a tour or exploring on my own every second day to keep from getting bored.

Risk of Over-Scheduling

The abundance of activities offered at an all-inclusive resort, can make solo travellers feel pressure to “get their money’s worth,” leading to a vacation that feels more structured than spontaneous. It’s important to remember that the reason you chose an all-inclusive option is to relax and have some self-care.

The 6 O’Clock Chair Game

Okay, I will admit that the 6 o’clock chair game is my least favourite part of staying at an all-inclusive resort.

🙁 On the downside, when travelling solo, if you want a chair in a premier spot at the pool or the beach, you have to get up really early to serve your spot. You don’t have anyone to do it for you.

🙂 On the up-side, there is only one of you, so chances of finding a chair for one person is pretty great. It may not be where you want it to be, but you will find one.

I admit that I have only visited one all-inclusive that I would have considered returning to. Unfortunately it has since closed down 🙁

Is an All-Inclusive Resort Right for Solo Travellers?

Whether an all-inclusive resort suits your solo travel style depends on your priorities:

• Go for it if: You’re seeking a stress-free getaway, prioritizing safety, or looking to meet new people in a relaxed setting.
• Think twice if: You crave cultural immersion, love exploring off the beaten path, or want a highly personalized travel experience.

Tips for Finding All-Inclusive Resorts That Cater to Solo Travellers

If after reading the pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts for solo travellers you decide this is for you, there are ways to find resorts that cater to solo travellers, such as:

All-Inclusive Resorts for Solos

For solo travellers, striking a balance might be key, consider splitting your trip into two parts. Spend a few days at an all-inclusive resort to unwind and then explore local attractions or nearby towns for a deeper connection to your destination.

What’s your take? Would you book an all-inclusive resort for your next solo trip? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Happy & Savel Travels 🙂

SAVE FOR YOUR NEXT ALL-INCLUSIVE VACATION