Seems strange and somewhat oxymoronic that an all-inclusive would have “extra” fees, but they can and almost always do. If you know ahead of time it’s not a big deal, but it’s best not to be surprised when you get there.
All-inclusive
We’ve experienced some online booking websites that allow you to search all-inclusive. BEWARE as sometimes the results for the cheapest location may only include airfare and hotel costs. They then force the researcher to click on the hotel and scroll down to find the more expensive all-inclusive option.
Cruises (boats and trains) and resorts often include rail or house drinks and don’t include all tours available. If you want more than the standard red/white wine or scotch, you’ll have to pay full price for it. Likewise if there’s a special tour you think would be fun, you’ll need to budget for that as well.
Cruises
Sometimes cruises do not include airfare to get to the departure city. This would be a good time to mention that you’ll want to leave enough time between anticipated flight arrival (when your flight lands) and the departure of the cruise ship or train (last time to board). If for some reason your transportation to your ship/train is delayed for some reason (weather, mechanical failure, etc.), you’ll need to have alternative transportation worked out ahead of time. Much as everyone thinks they’re the most important human on earth, they will not delay their departure if we’re late. If you’re the extra cautious type, pick a flight that arrives well in advance of the cruise. Maybe even budget in a night before at a decent hotel/BnB the night before to ensure your timely arrival?
Resorts
When traveling to resorts, some resorts offer shuttle service at their local airport for free. However, some do not, so it’s always good to find out if they do, plus how it works if they do, and what to do if they don’t. Keep in mind, resorts can often offer several restaurants within the resort that are part of the deal. You’ll need to check to see if any of the restaurants require reservations. We discovered this a few years back when we went to a resort and we couldn’t get into a particular restaurant until the third day.
Bottom line
Try to understand your journey and all its details as best you can. As will be mentioned in another blog, try to have extra money in your budget which will allow you to adjust as necessary. From experience, there’s almost always something that you see that you’d like but didn’t plan for. If it doesn’t get spent, it can always go back into the savings account!