Are All-Inclusive Honeymoon Vacations Pricier than Other Options? 

Are All-Inclusive Honeymoon Vacations Pricier than Other Options?

If you’re planning a honeymoon on a tight budget, you may have narrowed your options down to all-inclusive honeymoon vacations in a resort package or a cruise.

Piecing together a vacation from scratch can get expensive rather quickly, especially if you want to enjoy spa services, romantic restaurants with quality cuisine, beautiful spots to sip cocktails, and a variety of activities, tours, and day trips.

An all-inclusive honeymoon vacation is supposed to wrap up all those expenses into one package, so you can pay ahead of time and eliminate financial stress during your trip.

Cruises often follow a similar model, offering access to various restaurants, bars, and activities right on the ship while docking at ports for off-board adventures.

When these deals truly include everything you need for a romantic honeymoon, they can indeed be cheaper than alternatives, but there are a few critical updates to be aware of in today’s travel landscape.

The Hidden Costs in Some All-Inclusive Honeymoon Packages

As amazing as an all-inclusive deal sounds, things have shifted. Many packages now include more features, such as premium drinks and a wider variety of restaurant options, but it's still crucial to ask the right questions.

Some deals can be misleading, so ensure you're fully aware of what's included.

Here’s a list of questions you should ask to determine whether an all-inclusive honeymoon vacation or cruise package is truly a money-saving deal:

1. Will you have access to all amenities?

Many resorts and cruise ships now have VIP or private areas, offering exclusive pools, fitness clubs, hot tubs, or dining areas.

Unless you're purchasing the highest-tier package, your all-inclusive deal might limit access to these more romantic, secluded spaces.

These private perks may still be attainable, but they often come at an added cost. Be sure to ask if there are any amenities off-limits before booking.

2. What kind of room are you getting?

You may be restricted to standard rooms, often without the best views or private villas. Today, many couples prefer something unique, like overwater bungalows or cliffside cottages, which may not be included in your all-inclusive deal.

These upgrades are usually available for an additional fee, so it’s important to know whether your deal limits you to the more basic options.

3. Are spa services included?

While some luxury packages are starting to include spa treatments, most resorts still charge extra for services like massages, facials, or any indulgent couple’s treatments.

Always confirm before assuming you can book that soothing spa day as part of your all-inclusive honeymoon.

4. How many meals and snacks are included?

While many all-inclusive resorts now offer more than three meals a day, it’s common for some packages to limit you to buffet-style dining or less formal settings during off-hours.

You might still find yourself paying for snacks, upscale restaurants, or specialty dining, even if the majority of meals are covered.

High-end packages tend to offer more flexibility, but make sure you’re clear on the meal rules ahead of time.

5. Are alcoholic beverages included?

The good news is that more all-inclusive packages are now offering a selection of alcoholic drinks. However, there may be limits on what types of alcohol are covered.

For instance, premium brands, cocktails, or wines often come at an extra cost, even if basic drinks are free-flowing. Cruises have begun rolling out alcohol-inclusive packages, but it’s not always automatic, so verify if you’ll need to pay for a drink upgrade.

6. Are activities and concierge services included?

While you may have access to a beach or basic resort activities, luxury adventures, such as helicopter tours, private boat charters, and guided excursions, are usually excluded.

It’s worth asking what specific activities are included, as even basic gear like snorkeling equipment or paddleboards might come with rental fees.

For skiing or snowboarding honeymoons, find out if lift tickets or equipment are covered, as these expenses can add up.

7. Are there any hidden fees? This is where things can get tricky. Even with an all-inclusive package, there are sometimes charges for the small stuff that could eat into your honeymoon budget.

From beach towels to Wi-Fi, gratuities, and even a la carte room service, be prepared for incidental fees that aren’t always clearly advertised.

Transportation Costs and Other Considerations

Don’t overlook the cost of getting to and from your honeymoon destination. Some all-inclusive resorts or cruises include transportation from the airport, while others leave you to fend for yourself.

You might save money by choosing a destination with easy, budget-friendly flights or free shuttle services.

In addition, consider whether the activities you’re interested in are within your reach. If you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort in a remote area, you may need to factor in the cost of transportation to popular tourist attractions.

A resort may advertise activities, but without clear information on whether those activities are included or come with an additional price tag, you might end up with unexpected expenses.

A Final Word of Advice for All-Inclusive Honeymoon Vacations

Despite the potential pitfalls, all-inclusive honeymoon packages can still offer great value, especially if you're smart about which package you choose.

Couples seeking luxury and relaxation without the constant worry of tallying up costs may find all-inclusive vacations ideal.

More resorts are evolving with the demands of honeymooners, offering more inclusive experiences and better deals.

For example, some eco-resorts and wellness-focused destinations now provide curated packages that emphasize digital detoxes or all-inclusive wellness retreats.

These may offer everything from farm-to-table meals to nature hikes and meditation sessions—all bundled into the price, with fewer hidden costs than traditional resorts.

So...

As you plan your all-inclusive honeymoon, just be sure to take the time to carefully review the details. What you save on accommodations could be spent elsewhere, but with the right package, you can still enjoy a romantic getaway without breaking the bank.

Related Articles:

Home >  All-Inclusive Honeymoon Options >  Are All-Inclusive Honeymoon Vacations Pricier?