Choosing where to go on holiday is usually the exciting part. Picking the destination, scrolling through hotel photos, comparing prices for cheap holidays and imagining yourself sitting by the pool is all part of the fun. But then comes another decision that can actually make a big difference to your trip. What board basis should you book?
Do you go all-inclusive and enjoy the peace of mind that most things are paid for before you arrive? Or do you choose half board, leaving yourself a little more freedom to get out, explore and try different places to eat?
The truth is, there isn’t one option that suits everyone. A relaxing family beach holiday might call for something completely different to a city break packed with sightseeing. It all depends on how you like to spend your time away.
If you’re trying to decide between all-inclusive and half board, here’s what you need to know.
What Does All Inclusive Mean?
All inclusive holidays are all about making things easy. Although exactly what’s included varies depending on the hotel or resort, it usually means your accommodation, main meals, snacks and a selection of drinks are covered in the price you pay before travelling. Some resorts include even more, such as evening entertainment, kids’ clubs, sports, activities and fitness classes.
For many people, the biggest attraction of going all inclusive is simply not having to think about things once they arrive. There’s no working out where to eat every night, no checking prices on menus and fewer unexpected costs creeping in.
You can unpack, settle in and start enjoying your holiday.
Why Choose an All-Inclusive Holiday?
One of the biggest reasons people choose all-inclusive is that it makes budgeting so much easier.
When you’ve already paid for most of your food and drinks, you have a much clearer idea of what your holiday is going to cost overall. Of course, you may still spend money on trips, shopping or meals out, but the everyday costs are usually covered.
This can make a huge difference when travelling as a family. Children have an amazing ability to want a drink, snack or ice cream approximately five minutes after you’ve just bought them something else! Having these things included can make the whole experience feel a little more relaxed.
All-inclusive is also a great choice if your holiday plans mainly involve switching off. If your dream trip looks like slow mornings, swimming, reading by the pool and enjoying dinner without making lots of decisions, it can be perfect.
Many modern resorts also offer far more choice than people expect. Alongside buffet restaurants, you’ll often find themed nights, speciality restaurants and plenty of different cuisines to try.
Are There Any Disadvantages to All-Inclusive?
While all-inclusive holidays have plenty of benefits, they’re not always the best option for every traveller.
One of the biggest downsides is that it can make you less likely to leave your hotel. When you’ve already paid for meals and drinks, popping out to a local restaurant can sometimes feel like paying twice.
This means you might miss out on some amazing little cafés, traditional restaurants and local experiences.
The quality of all-inclusive packages can also vary quite a lot between hotels. Some resorts do food incredibly well, with plenty of fresh options and variety. Others may start to feel a bit repetitive after a week.
Checking recent reviews before you book is always a good idea, especially when it comes to food.
What Does Half Board Mean?
Half board gives you a balance between convenience and flexibility.
Most half board holidays include your accommodation, breakfast and your evening meal. You’ll then pay separately for lunches, snacks, drinks and any meals you choose to have elsewhere.
For some travellers, this gives them the best of both worlds. You have the comfort of knowing some meals are already arranged, without feeling tied to your hotel all day.
Why Choose A Half Board Holiday?
Half board works really well if you enjoy exploring your destination.
You can have breakfast before heading out for the day, visit attractions, discover new places and stop for lunch wherever you happen to be. Then, when you return to your hotel in the evening, dinner is waiting.
It’s particularly suited to holidays where you know you won’t spend every day around the pool. City breaks, road trips and destinations known for their food are all great examples.
Sometimes the best holiday memories come from finding a tiny family-run restaurant down a side street or trying a local dish you’d never normally order.
Half board can also be a more affordable option upfront, especially if you don’t tend to drink much alcohol or you naturally prefer spending your days away from the hotel.
Are There Any Downsides To Half Board?
The main thing to remember with half board is that you’ll usually spend more money while you’re away.
A coffee here, a few drinks there, lunch out every day and extra snacks can soon add up — particularly in destinations where eating out is expensive.
Families may also find that the additional costs add up quickly, especially with younger children who need regular snacks and drinks throughout the day.
It really comes down to being realistic about how you holiday. If you imagine yourself spending most days relaxing at the resort, all-inclusive might actually offer better value.
Is All Inclusive Or Half Board Better?
There isn’t a clear winner because both options suit different types of holidays.
If you want convenience, predictable costs and a completely relaxing break where everything is taken care of, all-inclusive is a fantastic choice.
If you prefer exploring, trying local restaurants and using your hotel more as a base, half board might be a much better fit.
At the end of the day, the best holiday isn’t the one with the longest list of things included. It’s the one that lets you travel in the way you enjoy most.
For some people, that means unlimited poolside drinks and knowing dinner is sorted every evening. For others, it means wandering through a new town and discovering a restaurant they’ll still be talking about years later.
The right choice is simply the one that makes your holiday feel like your kind of holiday.