Travel Tips & Trends

All-inclusive tours: what to look for

Every year, tens of thousands of travelers try their first all-inclusive tour. For some, the appeal lies in a tour operator's ability to add insider knowledge to a popular destination. For others, a group tour provides a greater comfort level in more exotic locations. Still others choose tours for the convenience or value.

What should the savvy traveler look for when choosing a tour?

Choose a reputable, established tour operator. Get the opinions of friends who've taken a tour, or visit a professional travel agent for recommendations.

Determine what's actually included in the price.
Few tours are 100% all-inclusive. Pay particular attention to meals—these are the most expensive component of a typical vacation. Are airport transfers included? Taxes? Shore excursions from an escorted ocean or river cruise? Admission to attractions? Entertainment?

Check the location of the hotels. Many tour operators are building more free time into their itineraries so guests can explore on their own. That's great, but having a free afternoon to wander the streets of Rome loses its appeal when your hotel is 10 miles outside the city.

Tours featuring city-center hotels cost more, but could make a huge difference in the quality of your vacation.

Gauge the expertise of tour directors. Ask about the company's guides or tour directors. How long have they been with the company? What training do they have?

A rock-bottom price can mean a rock-bottom experience, especially if a low brochure price is inflated later by multiple unexpected add-ons. Looking at the above factors before booking will help place the focus on value instead of price.