Is all-inclusive cheaper than self-catering?
A self-catering break could be more of a bargain than all-in, new research suggests
NEARLY half of us choose an all-inclusive package for our holidays, according to research by the Post Office.
Value for money and easy control of the holiday budget are the usual reasons for booking all-in, but is it ALWAYS the cheapest option?
The Post Office Travel Money division suggests a self-catering break could be more of a bargain, given that 44 per cent of all-inclusive guests also spend money in local bars and restaurants.
All-inclusive guests fork out an extra £254.33 on average OUTSIDE their resort, mostly on restaurants.
And many all-inclusive deals also charge extra in resort for signature restaurants, upgraded wine and branded drinks, which can push the price up again.
By contrast, self-catering holidaymakers spend an average of £135.98 on a week's provisions - more than £100 LESS than the extra spend on an all-inclusive break.
So going on basic sums alone, self-catering sounds like the cheaper option.
But holidays, like life, rarely ever run on basic sums.
If you are happy with the buffet and don't care much for fancy wine, all-inclusives can be the better pick.
Likewise if drinks at the bar are part of the package - and mostly they are - you will reap the benefit of an all-in deal. On the other hand, if you don't drink much then selfcatering may suit you better.
The research doesn't put a price on convenience - such as having someone else cooking or cleaning for you - nor does it mention activities, which is another key reason for going all-inclusive.
Even the simplest all-inclusives offer some form of entertainment as part of the package.
At Club Med, this includes tennis, golf, sailing, water-skiing and many more.
At Sandals in the Caribbean, even scuba diving is included - hence the higher package price.
But rounds of golf, watersports or equipment hire could add hundreds of pounds to a self-catering break - not least if you need a car.
Still, peace and quiet, your own space and favourite tipple are priceless for some, in which case a self-catering break is money well spent.
You will still have to do the washing-up, though.