Are Tips Really Included at All-Inclusive Resorts? Here’s the Truth, According to Experts

For many travelers, the appeal of an all-inclusive resort lies in the promise that you won’t need your wallet once you arrive—hence the name. There’s a certain freedom in knowing you don’t have to stress over dinner prices or worry about a surprise bar tab at checkout.

While it’s generally understood that you’ll pay extra for add-ons like spa treatments, excursions, or premium alcohol, the question of tipping under the all-inclusive label is less clear.

The short answer is tipping isn’t expected at most all-inclusive resorts, as gratuities are typically included in the overall price of your package. That said, many guests still choose to tip—unless the resort explicitly prohibits it—as a way to recognize great service.

“Our tipping philosophy is that our all-inclusive rate covers all aspects of guests’ stay and including gratuity in the all-inclusive rate ensures guests can have a truly relaxed and worry-free vacation,” Evatt Bloomfield, general manager at Sunset at the Palms, an all-inclusive resort in Negril, Jamaica, told Travel + Leisure.

This is the official stance at many, if not most, all-inclusive properties. Still, Bloomfield estimates that around 90 percent of guests end up tipping. “A high percentage of people know the people’s names who are helping them so therefore they’re rewarding someone who extends quality service to them and someone they’ve developed a relationship with,” he said.

Whether you tip (and how much) is ultimately a personal decision. Below, we explore tipping policies at various resorts and offer guidance on what’s appropriate if you choose to tip.

Tipping Policies Vary by Resort

Tipping rules differ from one property to another, so it’s worth doing some research before your trip. For example, Sandals and Beaches resorts prohibit tipping altogether, except for spa therapists and personal butlers. This policy has been in place since the first Sandals opened in 1981.

“From the very beginning, our founder, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, envisioned a place of true relaxation and connection,” Deryk Meany, general manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, told T+L. “We want our guests to fully enjoy the sand and sunshine, and leaving their wallets behind is just one way we make that easy.”

Other properties, like at Curtain Bluff in Antigua, include a 10 percent gratuity in the final bill. Tipping isn’t prohibited there, but it’s structured differently. “If our guests choose to further reward our staff, we ask that they consider making an additional contribution to the staff service charge pool, which also benefits our back-of-house staff,” Curtain Bluff managing director Rob Sherman noted. “This can simply be added to the guest’s total bill at checkout.”

Then there are properties like Sunset at the Palms and SLS Playa Mujeres in Cacun, which don’t clearly outline their tipping policy online, leaving many guests confused.

Room service hotel staff preparing champagne on a hotel balcony.

Anastasiia Krivenok/Getty Images

How to Find Out Your Resort’s Tipping Policy

If you’re unsure about tipping expectations, here’s what you can do:

• Call the resort directly to ask about their policy.

• Check travel forums like TripAdvisor or Facebook groups for guest experiences.

• Research the destination’s tipping culture and cross check it with the resort’s policy.

Be mindful that at some resorts, staff are not allowed to accept tips and could face disciplinary action for doing so. Always respect the property’s rules.

A member of the hotel staff accepting a tip from a guest.

Adie Bush/Getty Images

How Much Should You Tip at an All-inclusive?

While tipping is optional, many guests budget for it as a way to show appreciation for standout service. That’s the case at SLS Playa Mujeres, according to Arturo Kralj, the marketing manager.

Kralj recommends travelers budget between $30-$50 a day if they’re planning on tipping. Bring small bills (USD or local currency), and consider bringing a small pouch for tip money that you can throw in your beach bag so that you don’t have to bring your full wallet everywhere.

Here are suggested tip amounts, according to Kralj:

• Bartenders: $1-$2 per drink

• Pool/Beach Service: $5-$10 a day

• Buffet Meals: $3-$5

• A la carte dinners (say, a steakhouse): $10-$20

• Housekeeping: $5-$10 per night; any gratuity you want to leave the housekeeping staff can also wait until your last day

• Butlers: $20-$30 per day

For a five day trip, that means budgeting an extra $150-$250 for potential tips.

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to tipping at all-inclusive resorts. Gratuities are usually included, but recognizing exceptional service with a few extra dollars is always appreciated. And remember: when in doubt, ask.