In this post, I share my tried-and-tested all-inclusive packing list to make packing for your own trip a whole lot easier.
Whether it’s your first time staying at an all-inclusive resort or you’ve been to a dozen and just want to double-check that you haven’t forgotten anything, this is the exact list I use whenever I pack for a resort getaway.
Side note: an all-inclusive holiday is pretty similar to going on a cruise. However, the packing is a little different, so if you are planning a cruise, check out my cruise packing list next, or more specifically; my Norwegian fjord cruise packing list!
Table of Contents
My Top 8 All-Inclusive Resort Essentials (Quick Shop Checklist)
In a rush or just want to grab the items you don’t already own? These are the eight things that make the biggest difference on an all-inclusive trip:
- Insulated Tumbler (Stanley / Yeti Style): Keeps cocktails and ice water cold by the pool for hours, and resort bartenders are always happy to fill these up (less cleanup).
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Mandatory in protected eco-zones like Mexico and Zanzibar, and a fraction of what resort gift shops charge.
- Beach Towel Clips: Stops your towel from blowing off your sun lounger every time a coastal breeze picks up.
- Waterproof Phone Pouch: Essential for pool days, boat excursions, and beach walks without worrying about water damage. I even have one for my eReader, because I always bring it to read in the pool.
- Swimsuit Wet Bag: Keeps soggy swimwear completely separate from your dry clothes on excursion days.
- Compression Packing Cubes: Let you pack full outfits together so your suitcase stays organized all week.
- Hanging Toiletry Bag: Saves precious counter space in smaller resort bathrooms.
- Travel Jewelry Case: Keeps necklaces and earrings tangle-free when dressing up for evening dinners.
What is an All-Inclusive Resort?
An all-inclusive resort is truly a vacationer’s dream come to life. When I say ‘all-inclusive’, I’m talking about a resort experience where virtually everything is included in one upfront price.
Typically, this covers your room accommodations, meals, drinks (yes, even the alcoholic ones), and a variety of recreational activities and entertainment options. Some resorts even include gratuities and airport transfers in the deal.
These holiday havens are dotted around the world, with a high concentration in destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and parts of Southeast Asia.
The beauty of staying at an all-inclusive resort is the simplicity of budgeting for your trip. Once you’re there, you can enjoy all the amenities without reaching for your wallet.
What is included when you stay at an all-inclusive resort?
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Non-alcoholic Drinks
- Alcoholic Drinks (usually local spirits, wine and beer)
Tip: Always read the fine print when booking an all-inclusive holiday. Check the hotel website to see which restaurants and bars are included and what their opening hours are. I’ve stayed at all-inclusive hotels in the past where the only nighttime bar included in the package was located miles away from the resort’s evening entertainment and activities (disappointing, to say the least)!
In my opinion, the best all-inclusive resorts are the ones that include a la carte dining in their packages rather than just endless buffets. You’ll find plenty of great options for this if you’re looking at resorts in Mexico or the Dominican Republic (for example, I’ve reviewed Impressive Punta Cana and Grand Fiesta Americana in Cancun, both amazing all-inclusive resorts!).
Insider Tips for Visiting an All-Inclusive Resort
There are a few things you should know before visiting an all-inclusive resort that I wish someone had told me before my first trip. Over the years, I’ve done all-inclusive holidays all over the map. From diving and enjoying an all-inclusive in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, exploring resorts and figuring out which is the best Canary Island, to taking an unforgettable Tanzania safari from my all-inclusive resort in Zanzibar.
Through all those trips, I’ve picked up a few golden rules:
- Bracelets (or similar) color system: When you check in, you’ll usually be given a room key and a color-coded wristband. This tells the staff which tier of all-inclusive package you’re on. Some resorts have multiple “levels” that unlock premium spirits or VIP beach areas (something I experienced firsthand at the Grand Fiesta Coral Bay in Cancun).
- A La Carte vs Buffets: Many resorts have a la carte options alongside the main buffet. While the buffet is almost always included, specialty a la carte restaurants sometimes carry an extra charge or require advance reservations. Check the rules on day one so you don’t miss out.
- Resort discounts: Don’t miss out on built-in perks! Different packages often come with resort discounts on spa treatments, golf, or motorized water sports. Always check the welcome info in your room before paying full price for a massage.
- Tipping at all-inclusive resorts: Tipping isn’t always mandatory at all-inclusive resorts since staff are paid base wages, but exceptional service deserves a small tip. In destinations heavily frequented by American tourists (like the hotel zone in Cancun or beach clubs in Cabo), tipping is customary and expected. In regions with predominantly European guests (such as Alanya in Türkiye or Tenerife), it’s less standard. But leaving a tip for your housekeeping staff at the end of your stay is always appreciated.
All Inclusive Packing List
Now for the main event: my tried-and-tested packing list for all-inclusive resorts! Below is everything I bring on my resort trips, including the items I’ve learned the hard way not to leave behind.
Trying to pick your next all-inclusive destination? Check out my Punta Cana or Cancun comparison and my Cancun vs Riviera Maya comparison to find the best spot for your trip!
Items for Your Suitcase (All-Inclusive edition)
Your starting point is a lightweight, spinner suitcase that rolls well over resort walkways and airport terminals. Inside, pack these essentials:
- Reef Safe Sunscreen: Many all-inclusive resorts are in protected marine zones (for example along the Riviera Maya in Mexico), so it’s crucial to use sunscreen that won’t harm the local environment. I learned this when I started diving, and on my first visit to Cancun and Tulum.
- Flip Flops & Pool Sandals: You’ll live in these, so pack a high-quality and comfortable pair like Havaianas or Archies flip flops. I have made the mistake if leaving mine at home in the past, and ended up having to pay for an over-priced cheap pair at the resort. Now I always have two pairs of shoes with me for all-inclusive holidays: my Havaianas and my Birkenstocks. Between the two, I’m good.
- Swimwear: This one goes without saying. Whether you are packing for Cabo or Punta Cana, pack at least two or three swimsuits so you always have a dry one ready.
- Workout clothes and shoes: Most all-inclusive resorts have surprisingly good gyms, and often they also have activities such as zumba, aerobics and even beach yoga classes! So, if you like staying active on holiday, make sure to pack a set of workout clothes for your trip.
- UV-Protection Rash Guard: Essential if you plan on heading out on a boat cruise, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or spending hours in the ocean (for example swimming with turtles in Akumal, Mexico). It saves your shoulders from brutal midday sunburns and prevents chafing.
- Beach Cover-Up: A breezy kaftan or sarong makes walking from your lounger to the pool bar or lunch buffet effortless, and gives your skin a break from the sun.
- Spacious Beach Tote: Grab a lightweight, sand-proof or mesh beach bag to haul your sunscreen, Kindle, towel clips, and sunglasses down to the pool every morning.
- Packable Wide-Brimmed Sun Hat: Shields your face from harsh sun and looks great in photos, without getting crushed flat inside your suitcase.
- Sunglasses: Don’t make my classic mistake of leaving every pair on your kitchen counter at home. Bring a sturdy everyday pair for the pool (and keep any designer pairs in your carry-on).
- Toiletries + Aloe Vera After-Sun Gel: Pack travel-sized versions of your daily essentials, plus cooling aloe vera gel for the evenings.
- Mini First-Aid Kit: Toss in band-aids, blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, and motion-sickness tablets so you aren’t hunting down a resort nurse for minor scrapes.
- Bug Spray: Even luxury resorts get mosquitoes at dusk. Pack DEET-free insect repellent wipes or spray so you can enjoy outdoor dinners without getting eaten alive.
- Lightweight Packable Rain Jacket: Tropical destinations are famous for sudden afternoon downpours that pass in 20 minutes. A compact rain shell keeps you dry without taking up suitcase space.
- Lightweight Pyjamas: Resort air conditioning can get surprisingly chilly at night, so pack something comfortable to sleep in.
- Socks & Underwear: Easy to overlook when your brain is focused on swimsuits, so pack a few extra pairs just in case of humidity or excursion days.
Casual Resort Wear (Dress Code Edition)
Most all-inMost all-inclusive resorts keep daytime dress codes super relaxed, though wet swimwear is almost never allowed inside indoor buffet restaurants. Evening à la carte restaurants, however, are a different story. Many strictly enforce smart-casual dress codes and will even turn guests away at the door.
Men: Pack tailored chino shorts and polo shirts for daytime and casual buffets, plus at least one or two pairs of lightweight long pants (chinos or dark jeans) and closed-toe shoes (many à la carte restaurants require them for dinner). Leave the suit jacket and tie at home.
Women: Pack a few breezy sundresses or maxi dresses that transition easily from afternoon drinks to dinner, like these ones that have pockets (no need for a bag when all you have to carry is your phone and room key). Don’t forget resort shorts, lightweight tops, and nice sandals (like mentioned above, Birkenstocks is enough).
All Inclusive Carry-on Essentials
Keep your valuables, electronics, and first-day essentials in your carry-on in case your checked bag gets delayed:
- Camera & Compact Travel Tripod: Essential for capturing sunsets and resort views (especially if you’re shooting content like me).
Universal Travel Adapter & Chargers: Double-check the plug type for your destination before you fly so you aren’t stuck paying resort prices for an adapter. - Kindle Paperwhite: Ever since I had to leave heavy paperbacks behind in Playa del Carmen because I ran out of suitcase space, my Kindle has been my #1 travel companion. Load it up with books before you leave!
- Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Great for playing music in your room while getting ready for dinner (just keep volume respectful around balconies and pools).
- Medications: Keep all prescription meds (along with a copy of your prescription) in your carry-on, plus over-the-counter basics for headaches, allergies, and stomach upsets.
- Sunglasses: Mentioning them twice because I forget them constantly, keep a pair in your carry-on (especially if they are designer sunglasses).
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones & Travel Pillow: Non-negotiable if you are taking a long-haul flight to reach the sun. Unless I’m flying business class, of course. I always try to bid for an upgrade, and then they give you both.
- Dive Computer & Log Book: For fellow scuba divers, never put your dive computer in checked luggage.
- Portable Power Bank: Keeps your phone charged on long travel days and full-day boat or sightseeing excursions.
- Hydrating Facial Mist: Plane air dries out your skin fast. Ever since I got a hydrating spray in my Qatar Airways Business Class amenity kit, I never fly without a travel-sized facial mist in my bag. It even made me question whether Qatar Business was better than Emirates.
Carry-On Organization Tip: Use a dedicated travel electronics organizer for your cords and adapters, and keep a small zip pouch in your seatback pocket with your passport, lip balm, AirPods, and credit card so you aren’t digging through the overhead bin mid-flight.
All-inclusive Packing hacks
Over the years, I’ve collected a handful of small travel gadgets and accessories that make packing easier and make lounging at an all-inclusive resort ten times smoother:
- An Insulated Tumbler: I had to add this to the list after my amazing trip to Punta Cana, where I noticed lots of travelers walking up to the bars with tumblers (Yeti or Stanley cup style). The bartenders were more than happy to fill up the tumblers with ice and cocktails, and I wish I brought my own!
- Beach towel clips: Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or by the pool without your towel blowing away. A set of bright, heavy-duty towel clips weighs practically nothing and keeps your towel locked in place (plus they make it easy to spot your chairs from across the pool).
- Waterproof phone case/pouch (unless you have an action camera): Unless you are carrying an action camera, a floating waterproof phone pouch is essential for pool days, boat tours, and beach walks so you can take photos without risking water or sand damage.
- Swimsuit wet bag: Whenever you take a day trip or boat excursion from your resort (whether you’re going on a day trip in Cancun such as visiting Xél-Ha Park or going on an excursion in Punta Cana) you almost always end up getting back on a bus in a damp swimsuit. A zippered wet bag keeps wet gear completely separated from your dry clothes and electronics.
- Packing cubes: These handy travel organizers are perfect for keeping your clothes and accessories neatly packed and organized. My packing life changed when I stopped sorting cubes by “tops” and “bottoms” and started packing complete outfits into each cube.
- Hanging toiletries bag: Resort bathroom counters fill up fast with sunscreen, after-sun, and makeup. A hanging toiletry bag hooks straight onto the bathroom door or towel rack and keeps everything visible.
- Travel jewelry case: To avoid the tangled mess that I once encountered, invest in a handy travel jewelry case (like this one on Amazon). It will keep your favorite pieces organized and ready to wear. Plus, you’ll avoid the heartache of losing that one earring that goes perfectly with your evening outfit.
- (Bright) Luggage strap or cover: My suitcase is plain black, and without my bright luggage strap and luggage cover (with palm trees and flamingos on it), I would never recognize it on a luggage carousel. Plus, it protects your bag from minor scruffs.
- Refillable water bottle: Many all-inclusive resorts have water refill stations around the lobby and pool, but they only provide tiny paper cups. Bringing a proper reusable bottle keeps you hydrated all day without endless trips to the bar.
- A portable door lock: A flight attendant on TikTok recommended this, and I never travel without it now, especially when solo travelling. It weighs almost nothing, fits in your palm, and adds an extra layer of security to your hotel room door at night.
- Scarf or scrunchie with a hidden pocket: This is a clever and discreet way to keep your valuables safe while traveling. Whether it’s holding extra cash or keys, you can have peace of mind (this is the original hidden pocked scrunchie, and I highly recommend it).
- TSA-Approved Luggage Lock: These locks are designed to be opened by TSA agents for inspection without damaging your luggage, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
- Deck of (waterproof) playing cards: Great for flights, rainy afternoons, or evening drinks on the balcony. My friends and I always have a game of Liverpool going when we travel!
- Electrolyte Packets: Between tropical heat, pool days, and all-inclusive cocktails, dehydration sneaks up fast. Tossing a few electrolyte packets in your carry-on is a lifesaver the next morning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Packing for an All-Inclusive Resort
Aim to pack versatile clothing that can mix and match for different occasions. You will need swimwear, evening attire for dinners, casual clothes for daytime, and perhaps one or two formal outfits for special events. It’s advisable to pack for 7-10 days to account for any unexpected situations or outfit changes.
Yes, most all-inclusive resorts have dress codes for their restaurants. Typically, beachwear is only acceptable at the pool or beach areas. For dinner, men may be required to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, while women might opt for sundresses or casual evening wear.
Yes, it’s recommended to bring sunscreen as purchasing it at the resort can be costly. Check TSA guidelines if you’re flying, and consider travel-sized, reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Items commonly overlooked include chargers, sunglasses, hats for sun protection, and any necessary medications. A reusable shopping bag or tote can also come in handy for carrying items to the beach or pool.
While all-inclusive packages often cover food and drinks, bringing some snacks can be beneficial, especially for excursions or for when the dining areas are closed. However, check the resort’s policy as some may have restrictions on outside food and drinks.
Avoid bringing items that are readily available at the resort, such as towels or hairdryers, to save space in your luggage. Also, refrain from packing prohibited items like certain types of sporting equipment or potentially dangerous goods. Always check with your airline for luggage restrictions.
Use packing cubes when packing for your all-inclusive trip, and packing light will be easier. I split my packing cubes up according to outfit, and always have one with dresses and another with shorts and tops. A third one carries swimsuits and underwear, and that’s all I need!
Final Tips Before You Zip Up Your Suitcase
Before you head to the airport, snap a quick photo of your passport and save your hotel confirmation and airport transfer details offline on your phone. I keep a photo of my passport on my phone at all times just in case.