All-inclusive holidays ‘far from being all in’ as tourists spending ‘hundreds of pounds on extras’

Holidaymakers who go on all-inclusive breaks are spending hundreds of pounds on extras as tour operators are failing to include “basic items” in the deal, a consumer group has warned.

Which? said many travellers are having to shell out for soft drinks, snacks and local alcoholic drinks – beverages brewed in the local area at a generally cheaper price.

It said the average extra spend inside and outside resorts on all-inclusive holidays is £258 per week after surveying more than 1,900 people.

Around 13% of respondents reported having to pay for soft drinks, while 18% had to cover the cost of snacks.

And 21% said local alcoholic drinks were not included.

The consumer group found those who booked via travel company Expedia spent the most on extras – £165 per week inside resorts and £228 outside.

All-inclusive holidays have increased in demand this year for several reasons.

People are seeking more certainty over the total spent on their holidays, and believe that most refreshments are included in the overall price.

But the editor of Which? Travel magazine said some all-inclusive breaks were “far from being all in”.

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Rory Boland said: “When budgets are tight, all-inclusive holidays surge in popularity, seemingly offering people a straightforward way to keep holiday costs under control with food, accommodation and drinks all wrapped into the price.

“However, our latest research has found that some all-inclusive holidays are far from being all in, with some unfortunate guests finding that even basic items like soft drinks weren’t included.”

He advised taking the time to research what would be included in the deal, as well as reading reviews from other guests could help to not be “left out of pocket”.