8 Travel Essentials for All-inclusive Resorts

Between unlimited cocktails, bottomless buffets, and picture-perfect pools, it’s easy to assume packing for an all-inclusive resort will be a breeze. After all, you’re headed somewhere designed for total relaxation, right? But after a recent stay at Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort in Mexico, I realized just how many essentials travelers (myself included) forgot, overlooked, or simply regretted not bringing

Despite offering everything from gourmet restaurants and nightly shows, to a water park and guided hydrotherapy treatments at the spa, all-inclusive resort vacationers can still miss out on the full experience by not packing the right clothing, accessories, or gear (one unlucky guest even tried to wade into the pool with her phone in hand, only for them both to end up fully submerged). So, whether it’s your first all-inclusive trip or your 10th, here are the packing mistakes and pitfalls to avoid—plus, what to bring instead so you can make the most of every sunset toast, beach yoga session, arts and crafts class, and unexpected game of pickleball. 

Mistake: Bringing too many shoesPack instead: OluKai Water-resistant Slide Sandals

All-inclusive resorts are typically relaxed when it comes to dress codes, even at dinner. So while it’s tempting to bring a different pair of shoes for every outfit, bulky heels and extra sandals often go unused. In fact, a recent study found that 71.7 percent of travelers overpack, with 40 percent admitting they’ve returned home with items they never wore. Guilty! On the flip side, packing only flip-flops can backfire, too, especially as some of the fancier restaurants may have dress codes, and excursions often call for something sturdier and more protective. 

These days, I find myself reaching for my OluKai Hila Sandals, which suit a variety of climates and trip itineraries with their durable, waterproof construction, chic criss-cross strap, arch-supporting footbed, and grippy outsoles. For other trips, I might switch between my APL sneakers, versatile sandals with a little heel, or a slingback style with a stylish detail.  

Mistake: Packing multiple bags Pack instead: Baggu Reusable Tote Bag

With so many activities and experiences at your fingertips, it’s easy to assume that you’ll need lots of bags to accommodate them all. But in reality, most all-inclusives are compact and casual, and you’ll likely end up reaching for the same bag again and again. 

Instead of stuffing your suitcase with options, bring one versatile, packable (and ideally waterproof) bag that can do it all. This classic Baggu tote is great as it folds up flat but can hold everything from towels to souvenirs. If traveling with the family or needing to carry more items, I love this packable Aloha Collection tote that features multiple zippers throughout. 

Most all-inclusives provide towels poolside, so if you only need something to store your phone and room key, opt for something small and secure like this Tlmody belt bag. It can take you from the beach to dinner without looking out of place. 

Mistake: Relying on single-use resort water bottlesPack instead: Powcan Insulated Water Bottle 

Yes, all-inclusives are known for unlimited drinks, including bottled water, but that doesn’t mean you’ll always have it when you need it. When you’re hanging by the pool or beach under the hot sun, the water warms up fast, and no one wants to drink from a bottle that’s been baking in the sun.

I recently made the rookie error of trying to reuse a single plastic bottle at a resort, and instantly regretted it. Everyone around me had reusable, insulated bottles, and I felt like a fool with my crinkled plastic one. Now I pack this Powcan insulated water bottle, which keeps drinks cold all day and has a spout that’s great for sipping, as well as things like rinsing sandy hands after the beach. It also has a handle, making it easy to carry around the resort. 

Mistake: Leaving valuables out of sight at the poolPack instead: Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch 

When I was at a resort recently, I saw so many people wading through the pool with their phones, keycards, and cash in hand because they had nowhere safe to stash them. One girl even slipped on a step and dropped her phone straight into the water. After witnessing that, I always pack a waterproof phone pouch or a portable mini lockbox that attaches to my beach chair or discreetly tucks into my beach bag. 

The waterproof pouch is great as I can wear it around my neck fully submerged, and I’m still able to use the touch screen if I want to take a quick picture or reply to a message. It gives me peace of mind and actually lets me relax when I visit the swim-up bar. 

Mistake: Leaving your tech and bags untrackedPack instead: Apple AirTag 4-pack

Between crowded airport terminals, lost baggage, and busy pool decks, it’s easier than you think to misplace a bag or accidentally grab someone else’s. During a recent resort stay, they kindly gifted every guest with a complimentary tote bag, which meant that everyone’s bags were identical at the pool. It would’ve been way too easy for someone to walk off with the wrong one. 

Even if I’m only bringing a carry-on, I always use Apple AirTags and bring extras along with me. It gives me peace of mind to be able to keep track of my belongings, especially important things like my wallet and purse. 

Mistake: Forgetting versatile wardrobe basicsPack instead: Automet Linen Matching Set

You’re probably thinking swimsuits by day and fun, bold looks by night, and yes, you’ll want those. However, many resorts, especially all-inclusives, have a full slate of unexpected activities that you might not even know about until you arrive. Think beach yoga, spontaneous pickleball tournaments, game nights, or even a casual arts and crafts class.

If you’ve only packed elevated looks and bikinis, you might end up feeling either too overdressed or underdressed to join in. I’m not suggesting overpacking, but it’s worth tossing in one or two versatile matching sets like this adorable linen-blend option from Automet that can be used to walk around the property as well as for activities. The best part is you can mix and match the pieces with other styles in your suitcase, doubling your outfit possibilities. 

Mistake: Forgetting a small medicine kitPack instead: Roam + Well Essential Travel Medicine Kit

All-inclusive resorts usually include plenty of food and drinks, but essentials like medicine aren’t often part of the package. While resort shops generally carry a few basics, they’re often overpriced and typically only open during daytime hours. On my last trip, I ran out of motion sickness tablets ahead of a boat tour, and the resort shop was closed—let’s just say, it was a miserable experience. 

Now, I always pack a mini first-aid kit like this Roam + Well one, which is stocked with painkillers, allergy medicines, bandages, and electrolytes. It takes up almost no space, and you’ll be grateful to have it when you find yourself needing something at 2 a.m. on a Sunday when nothing else is open. 

Mistake: Packing your favorite (expensive) jewelryPack instead: Pavoi 14-karat Gold Plated Cubic Zirconia Ring

Wearing sentimental or high-value jewelry while traveling is usually more trouble than it’s worth. Between the risk of loss, theft, or damage, it’s best to leave your valuable pieces at home. There’s also the added issue of international travel, where customs regulations and limits vary widely, with rules you might not even be aware of for each country you visit. 

To avoid this unnecessary stress, opt for affordable yet stylish alternatives. There are plenty of options that closely mimic your original diamond designs, like this $16 cubic zirconia ring. It gives you that polished vacation look without the worry, letting you relax and enjoy your trip worry-free. 

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