Should I tip if it's all-inclusive?

Yes. While technically included, tipping $1–$2 for drinks or $5 for excellent restaurant service is standard practice and results in noticeably better service throughout your stay.

Is it cheaper to book a package or book flights and resorts separately?

Usually, bundling flights and the resort through a major operator like Costco Travel or a direct airline vacation package is cheaper because these companies have bulk-purchase agreements.

Booking an All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico and the Caribbean

Book directly through the resort website to secure the best loyalty perks and direct communication for special requests. Aim to book 4 to 6 months in advance to catch early-bird pricing and ensure availability for high-demand room categories.

Define your non-negotiables. Decide if you need an adults-only property, proximity to an airport (to avoid 2+ hour shuttles), or specific amenities like a swim-up bar or scuba certification center. Filter by these 'must-haves' first to narrow down the thousands of options.
Verify the 'All-Inclusive' inclusions. Check the fine print to see if premium alcohol, a la carte dining (without surcharges), and non-motorized water sports are actually included. Some resorts charge extra for 'gourmet' restaurants or room service.
Cross-reference with aggregator sites. Use sites like Kayak or Expedia to find the best rate, but don't book there yet. Take the total price to the resort's official website to see if they offer a 'Best Price Guarantee' or an additional 5-10% discount for signing up for their free loyalty program.
Confirm airport transfer logistics. Check if the resort includes round-trip airport transfers. If not, book a private transfer service beforehand rather than taking a taxi at the airport, which can be double the price.

Should I tip if it's all-inclusive?: Yes. While technically included, tipping $1–$2 for drinks or $5 for excellent restaurant service is standard practice and results in noticeably better service throughout your stay.
Is it cheaper to book a package or book flights and resorts separately?: Usually, bundling flights and the resort through a major operator like Costco Travel or a direct airline vacation package is cheaper because these companies have bulk-purchase agreements.