The Winter Travel Debate: All Inclusive Resort vs Backpacking

Infinity pool at an all inclusive resort in Cuba. Booked a great deal for cheap travel!

​A common debate among winter time travelers is often the one where you have to decide if you'll be going to an all inclusive resort or backpacking. Here are a few pointers to help guide your decision.   

Kayaking at an all inclusive resort in Puerto Plata (found an amazing deal!).

It's that time of year again! Shorts and dresses have been switched for boots, scarves, and warm jackets. Yes, mother nature has somehow switched the seasons upon us again and brought in winter time. For some this time of year can be described as difficult due to reduced daylight, colder temperatures and the end of summer vacations. Others however (such as us here at The Time Travelers) have through the years learned to associate the return of jackets with planning a trip to a (at least slightly) warmer location!
   
Who is traveling? 
First, you should consider who is going on this trip. Are you going by yourself, or is your entire family or group of friends coming with you? Depending on the varying degree of travel experience and levels of comfort with different experiences this could influence your decision. What type of vacation are you and your group wanting? What are your interests? What is the price range per individual that you are willing to spend, and how flexible is this budget? Consider these questions while reading these overviews of backpacking and all inclusive vacations.  
 
All Inclusive Resorts
This type of vacation can be the cheapest option for travel as it usually includes most essentials (flight, transfer from airport to hotel, hotel room, meals, drinks, etc). This means that the only additional expenses come in the form of tips (not required but encouraged), excursions or other activities off resort. Most resorts tend to be located fairly close to cities or at least small villages which can make for easy adventures off resort without costing too much money.    

While on resort, entertainment, such as free nightly shows, and various activities that can take the form from sports games to dance or language classes, are organized daily at no extra cost. This worry free, easy to plan vacation also offers many relaxing activities which can include days spent at the beach or pool, and visits to the spa or beauty salon.    

Individuals who aren't looking for a significant culture shock often find these environments to feel safe. There are usually many other tourists and many resort staff able to offer assistance if ever necessary.    
 
Backpacking 
There are many significant differences between all inclusive resorts and backpacking. A first important one is pricing. Whereas all inclusive resort prices are fairly upfront (and can be adjusted based on which country and star rating you choose to select as your destination), backpacking prices can vary widely based on country of destination. From flight prices to the cost and type of accommodations, along with the cost of food and activities, these can vary significantly. And of course, make sure to keep in mind the importance of having an established budget, along with additional money in case of emergency.  

​Having said this, backpacking offers an opportunity to get to know yourself better through new adventures, exploring new cultures and leaving your comfort zone. It can be modified exactly to your interest, from camping on a beach with daily surfing to sleeping in a tree house and scuba diving, the options are endless! You'll have the chance to get to make new friends (especially if staying in hostel type environments) and learn about off the beaten path experiences that are not to be missed! It's impossible to imagine the stories you'll come back with, as backpacking always results in such unexpected but wonderful surprises.  

Bottom Line  
Hopefully this was helpful in clarifying which type of vacation is right for your next escape! Regardless of which option you choose, focus on enjoying the experience of the adventure!

J&C

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Beach outside our budget hotel in Koh Tao, Thailand during a backpacking trip.