All-Inclusive vs. Standard Resorts: Which Incentive Trip Accommodations Are Best?

Incentive trips are a great tool with significant benefits for both the organizations that host them and the employees or partners who attend them. These programs can serve as a reward for hard-working employees who accomplish specific goals or perks for business partners to foster stronger relationships. In either case, incentive trips increase attendee morale, promote and maintain motivation, and forge stronger relationships. When planning an incentive travel program for employees or partner groups, one of the first decisions travel managers must make is whether or not the trip will be hosted at all-inclusive accommodations. To choose between these options, organizations need to consider budget, program type or goals, and guest preferences.

Cost Structure and Budgeting

Both all-inclusive and standard resort incentive trips are large expenses. All-inclusive trips provide a fixed, upfront cost that usually includes accommodations, meals, beverages, and activities. While these trips may cost organizations more, they offer predictable budgeting and ensure guests enjoy their stay without the need to cover any additional costs. Standard options are more flexible and customizable since everything outside of accommodations is generally booked and paid for separately. However, these trips increase the chance of unpredictable or last minute costs.

Planning and Flexibility

Putting together an all-inclusive incentive trip is usually much more straightforward than standard resort alternatives. Because lodging, food, drinks, and activities are included, transportation is the primary logistical factor to consider. All other bookings are handled with either the resort or a third-party provider. Expect to spend more time planning standard incentive trips, as coordination between multiple vendors for different trip components is likely necessary. However, this means standard incentive trips have greater flexibility when it comes to on- and off-resort dining or activity options.

Guest Experience

The type of incentive trip you put together should be considered with the guest experience in mind. Guests should be clear about what expectations, if any, organizations have for their incentive trips. All-inclusive resorts are ideal for organizations that want to reward guests with an indulgent, relaxation-focused experience with minimal obligations. Because everything is included at the resort, guests can enjoy a worry-free getaway and partake in resort activities together. On the other hand, standard incentive trips place greater emphasis on individual experiences, with guests are more likely to explore the area beyond the resort. However, that doesn’t mean standard trips have to lack structure. These accommodations are usually more equipped to handle group-focused events like private dinners, team-building activities, and presentations. While these events may be allowed at all-inclusive resorts, they often require a fee.

Activities and Amenities

Besides an amazing destination, those rewarded with an incentive trip will expect top-notch amenities and activities. All-inclusive trips package experiences like spas, golf, shows and entertainment, and bar access into pricing. This makes it easier for guests to enjoy everything the resort has to offer and may encourage attendees to stay within resort grounds and experience these perks together. Standard incentive trips require travel managers and travel advisors to curate activities for attendees to partake in or allow guests to seek out their own experiences. If given the choice, guests can be more selective about what activities they participate in.