Is Your All-Inclusive Price Fair? Hurghada Hotel Value Breakdown

Is your all-inclusive deal in Hurghada really that all inclusive? Find out! I bet there are some things you didn’t consider when booking your trip!

“All-inclusive” sounds like the ultimate stress-free vacation — everything handled under one neat price. Meals, snacks, cocktails by the pool, maybe even a few activities… right?

In Egypt, however, the meaning of “all-inclusive” varies dramatically between resorts. One traveler on TripAdvisor summed it up perfectly:

“All Inclusive varies from hotel to hotel… you probably need to list a few that you fancy and see the individual posters who have stayed there.”

That’s because “all-inclusive” is more a marketing label than a legal standard. Egyptian resorts often customize what’s included to fit their audience — some cater to families looking for full convenience, while others target couples who spend more time off-resort.

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🚫 What’s Typically Not Included

Even if your booking confirmation says “All-Inclusive,” here’s what often isn’t covered:

• Excursions & Day Trips: Visits to Luxor, Cairo, or the desert are almost never part of the package.
• Premium & Imported Drinks: Expect local beer, house wine, and Egyptian spirits. Anything imported costs extra.
• Spa Treatments & Specialty Restaurants: À la carte dinners, massages, or private beach access usually carry a fee.
• Airport Transfers & Local Transport: Some deals exclude these, leaving you to arrange your own ride.
• Tipping (Bakshish): Even if tips are “included,” gratuities are expected — it’s part of Egyptian culture.

So, before you get dazzled by the promise of “everything included,” remember that the term might not mean what you think.

Even after you’ve paid in full, some extra costs can sneak up on you.

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💰 Common “Upcharges” to Watch Out For

• Premium Spirits & Wines – Imported labels (Smirnoff, Bacardi, Johnnie Walker) are rarely included. Expect +€5–€10 per drink.
• À La Carte Restaurants – Many resorts allow one free reservation per week; subsequent visits are charged.
• Wi-Fi or Room Service Fees – Some hotels restrict free Wi-Fi to lobby areas.
• Spa & Wellness Access – Basic sauna may be free, but massages and private sessions add €30–€70.
• Transportation & Excursions – A simple half-day snorkel trip might cost €40–€60 pp.
• Environmental or Resort Fees – Some resorts apply an “eco tax” or “service fee” of €10–€20 pp/stay.

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💸 Real-Time Price Scrutiny

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for an all-inclusive holiday in Egypt this season — and what you’ll really get.

🌍 Sample Price Overview

Below is a responsive table comparing current all-inclusive prices (based on major booking platforms in late 2025).

(Note: Prices are indicative as of Oct 2025 and may vary by origin country, flight, and currency exchange.)

🔍 Price Comparison Insights

• Sharm El Sheikh tends to have the widest range — from budget 4★ at ~£300 pp/week to luxury 5★ Ultra AI at €200+ per night.
• Hurghada offers strong mid-range value — high competition keeps nightly rates moderate.
• Marsa Alam remains quieter, slightly pricier due to fewer direct flights and transfers.

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🗣️ Traveler Testimonies

“The minibar was restocked daily but imported snacks were charged at checkout.”

“Local beer was included, but any imported drink was an extra €6.”

“Airport transfers were not included even though the site implied door-to-door service.”

The takeaway? Always read the fine print and ask directly before you book.

🧾 Is the “Discount” Legitimate?

The appeal of all-inclusive holidays lies in simplicity — but does it really save you money?

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💼 Comparing Package vs. À La Carte

Let’s use a mid-range example for a 7-night stay in Hurghada (November 2025):

An all-Inclusive Package at a Hotel for a couple would be around €990 (hotel with meals and drinks €950 (2 people) + €40 transfer). For Separate Bookings, you would pay around €920 (€600 room only + Meals & Drinks €280 (average €40/day for 2, transfer €40)

Expense	All-Inclusive Package	Separate Bookings
Hotel (with meals/drinks)	€950 (2 people)	€600 room only
Meals & Drinks	Included	€280 (average €40/day for 2)
Transfers	€40 extra	€40
Total	€990	€920

→ The savings are minimal — but convenience is the real win.

For budget travelers who like exploring local eateries, à la carte bookings can be smarter. But for families or couples who plan to stay on-resort, all-inclusive usually saves effort (if not much money).

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When does All Inclusive work?

For Families, it makes sense: Kids’ meals, ice creams, soft drinks, and water parks are included.
Less ideal if you plan to do excursions or eat outside often — you’ll pay twice.

For Couples it’s worth it for relaxation and resort life.
❌ Wasteful if you prefer local dining or nightlife beyond the resort.

For Solo Travelers it’s convenient for stress-free rest.
❌ Costly if you don’t consume much food or drink and prefer exploring.

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💡 Maximizing Your Egyptian All-Inclusive Value

Here’s how to make sure your “all-inclusive” really is:

1. Compare Packages Thoroughly – Don’t just look at price; compare what’s inside the package.
2. Ask About Premium Drinks – Many hotels quietly upcharge for brands.
3. Confirm Transfers – Always ask if airport pick-up/drop-off is part of your rate.
4. Check Restaurant Limits – Some “all-inclusive” plans allow only one à la carte dinner per week.
5. Look for “Ultra All-Inclusive” Deals – These often include premium drinks, late snacks, and minibar refills — sometimes worth the upgrade.
6. Book Directly With Hotels – Direct rates can include bonuses (late checkout, free transfers, or spa discounts).
7. Join Loyalty Programs – Chains like Jaz Hotels or Sunrise Resorts often reward repeat guests with free nights or upgrades.
8. Travel in Shoulder Season (Oct–Nov) – Warm weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices.
9. Budget for Tips (Bakshish) – Plan €20–€40 total for your stay to tip service staff fairly.
10. Explore Local Markets – Even if meals are included, visiting local eateries adds cultural flavor without breaking the bank.

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✈️ Final Thoughts

Egypt’s all-inclusive resorts — from Hurghada’s beachfront palaces to Sharm El Sheikh’s coral-lined bays — can indeed offer fantastic value.
But “all-inclusive” doesn’t always mean “all expenses covered.”

The real secret? Know yourself and your travel style.
If you want predictability, kid-friendly amenities, and minimal planning, all-inclusive is ideal.
If you crave local culture, spontaneity, and culinary adventure, you might prefer a mix of bed-and-breakfast and à la carte experiences.

So before booking that tempting deal, scrutinize inclusions, compare offers, and read recent reviews. You’ll travel smarter, spend wiser, and enjoy Egypt — not just your resort.

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