That Cancun All-Inclusive You Booked? Here’s the “Secret” Price List

You did it. You booked the dream all-inclusive Cancun vacation. You’re imagining a wallet-free week of sun, sand, and endless margaritas. The word “all-inclusive” means everything is included, right? Well… mostly.

This isn’t a negative story, because your vacation is going to be amazing. Think of this as a friendly, insider guide to navigating the “secret price list”—the handful of common extras that aren’t part of the main package. Knowing about them ahead of time means no surprise charges on your checkout bill, just happy memories.

Based on our research at The Cancun Sun and feedback from thousands of travelers, here are the most common things you should expect to pay extra for.

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That Top-Shelf Tequila

You’re at the bar and you see it on the top shelf: that ultra-smooth, aged añejo tequila you’ve always wanted to try. The general rule of thumb at many all-inclusives is that while the house tequila, beer, and standard cocktails are part of the deal, that premium, top-shelf liquor often comes with an extra charge.

• The Deal: However, this is a key area where true 5-star luxury resorts stand out—many of them do include top-shelf liquor like Grey Goose or Johnnie Walker Black Label as part of their standard package. This is why it’s always best to read the fine print of your booking before you go.
• The Smart Move: The easiest way to be sure is to simply ask before you order. A friendly, “Is this one included?” to the bartender will get you a quick answer and ensure there are no surprises.

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The “Special” Dining Options & Menu Upgrades

While your resort’s fantastic specialty restaurants (the Italian, Asian, Mexican, etc.) are included in your stay, there are two common ways you might see extra charges related to dining.

• The Private Experience: The first is the one you’ll see advertised around the resort: that picture-perfect, candlelit dinner for two on the beach, or a private chef’s table experience. These are always booked separately and are considered a special add-on to your package.
• The Menu Add-On: The second, and more subtle upcharge, can happen right at your table in an otherwise “included” restaurant. You might be looking at the menu and notice that one or two specific, premium items have a price listed next to them. This is a very common practice.
  • What to look for: Typically, these are for ultra-premium items like a massive lobster tail, a huge Tomahawk steak for two, or a bottle of high-end champagne.
  • The Smart Move: The menu will always clearly state the price for these specific add-ons. The waiter may also point them out as “specials.” If you don’t order those specific items, your meal is completely included.

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The Rejuvenating Spa Day

This one catches a lot of people by surprise. While you have full access to the resort’s gym, pools, and other facilities, the spa is run like a separate business. That means massages, facials, hydrotherapy circuits, and beauty treatments are all on the “secret price list.”

• The Exception: Some high-end packages might come with “resort credits” that can be used towards a spa treatment, but they rarely cover the full cost.
• What to Expect: Expect to pay prices similar to what you’d pay for a high-end massage back home.

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The Thrilling Off-Site Adventure

Your all-inclusive resort is a paradise, but the wonders of the Riviera Maya are all around you. The resort’s tour desk is a convenient place to book an excursion to Chichen Itza, a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres, or a zip-lining adventure. However, none of these off-site tours are included in your all-inclusive price.

• Think of it This Way: The “all-inclusive” part covers everything on the resort’s property. The moment you step onto a tour bus to leave, it becomes an extra charge.
• The Good News: You have total control over this! You can book through the hotel for convenience or shop around with outside vendors for a better price.

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Cash is King: The Unspoken Rule of Tipping

This is probably the most important “secret” you should know. Officially, your all-inclusive package usually includes tips and gratuities. In theory, you don’t have to tip a single extra peso. But in practice, a little bit of extra cash works wonders.

Have you ever sat at the pool bar and wondered why the person next to you seems to be getting faster, more attentive service, maybe even a slightly stronger drink? The secret is likely the crisp $20 bill they handed the bartender at the start of their day.

• The Reality: The resort staff works incredibly hard for very modest wages. While tips are included, they are pooled and distributed. A direct cash tip is greatly appreciated and makes a significant, immediate difference to your server.
• The Smart Move: Tipping a little extra in cash is the fastest way to guarantee your server will make your vacation that much more amazing. They’ll remember your name, your drink order, and make sure your glass is never empty.

Think of it as an investment in an upgraded experience. Here’s a simple guide for cash tipping.

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And Yes, the Obvious Stuff…

Just to be crystal clear, anything you purchase in the resort’s gift shops, convenience stores, or high-end clothing boutiques is, of course, not part of the all-inclusive plan. This includes everything from that bottle of sunscreen you forgot to pack, to souvenirs for the family back home, to a new pair of designer sunglasses. Think of the shops as a separate mall that just happens to be on the property.

Finding the Right Fit from the Start

Of course, the best way to avoid surprises is to choose the perfect resort for your budget and vacation style from the very beginning. If you’re still in the planning stages, The Cancun Resort Finder quiz can help you find your perfect match in seconds, ensuring you know exactly what you’re getting before you even book.

Knowing about these few common extras ahead of time changes everything. It puts you in the driver’s seat, letting you decide exactly what’s worth the splurge. Now you can relax, knowing there will be no unexpected surprises on that final bill.

Happy travels!