You’re dreaming of tropical Mexico and jetting away with the family or a loved one for some well-deserved and long-awaited rest and rejuvenation. What’s easier than an all-inclusive resort? But, just what does that mean to you? For many, when we say, “all-inclusive resort,” it conjures up images of fine dining every night, free kids’ activities, top-shelf alcohol, even butler service. However, as you might expect, these upscale all-inclusive properties come with a hefty price tag. You also have the choice of a more “middle of the road” all-inclusive, where almost everything is included, but with a few caveats. At some such properties, you can pick and choose what to include, like a specific meal plan, so you don’t need to think about what meals will cost each day. Here’s what you can expect at a few of our favorite Mexico all-inclusive resorts: 

True All-Inclusive Resorts 

If you’re truly indulging, go with a luxury all-inclusive resort – why worry about what you’ll be charged for at the end when you’re supposed to be lounging about at the pool or beach? Among the top upscale resorts in Mexico that really do include it all, there’s Grand Velas Riviera Maya – you’ll get every single last meal provided at five signature restaurants, plus 24-hour gourmet room service, a minibar that is restocked daily, premium-brand alcohol, a 24-hour personal concierge, as well as concierge service at the beach and pool, kid and teen activities, use of the fitness center (and classes), water and land activities, WiFi, even the final tax and gratuities. 

Another uber-upscale property in Cabo and Cancun – Le Blanc – even throws in a complimentary hydrotherapy treatment in addition to all the same amenities as Grand Velas. And at TRS Yucatan by Palladium, you’ll also enjoy the added amenities of neighboring Grand Palladium Resorts, such as a private pool and private buffet restaurant for guests, two secluded bars and VIP beach area. That’s in addition to the complex’s 26 bars, 14 restaurants, 8 pools, spa and wellness center and more. 

(Almost) All-Inclusive Resorts 

Super-luxe, splashy all-inclusive resort not in your budget? Not a problem. You can still have a worry-free vacation at an (almost) all-inclusive resort. At these resorts throughout Mexico – like Barcelo, Now Resorts and RIU – you have the option to choose an all-inclusive plan if it suits you. These plans will cover a lot, but not everything (like private dining experiences, the best alcohol or WiFi), so be sure to read the fine print.

At Barcelo Maya Riviera, for example, the all-inclusive plan is designed such that “you’ll stay in one and enjoy six hotels.” Guests on this plan have access to the group’s other hotels in the area, and their restaurants, bars, pools and beaches. At their own hotel, guests will enjoy all meals and snacks, open-bar cocktails and soft drinks and some activities and entertainment. Not included are items like spa treatments, motorized water sports and special dining experiences. 

At Now Amber Puerto Vallarta, guests can live large on the Unlimited-Luxury® plan, including kid and teen programs, unlimited dining with no reservations, top-shelf drinks, 24-hour room and concierge service, pool and beach wait service, minibar refreshed daily, activities and entertainment and more. 

A resort such as Riu Palace Peninsula All Inclusive, again, offers a lot, but not everything, as the ultra-deluxe resorts do. Yet, it may be just enough to give your vacation that worry-free, indulgent feel you’re seeking. The all-inclusive program at their Cancun property includes all the standard amenities, like meals and snacks, room service, stocked minibar, gratuities and taxes, non-motorized water sports, some fitness classes and some activities and entertainment. The extra fees rack up when you add on spa treatments, motorized water sports, childcare, scuba diving, etc.