When you’re planning a big trip, one of the first questions that comes up is: what’s already covered, and what extra costs might I need to budget for? We hear this often, so here’s a simple guide that breaks it down.

We’ve designed our Hawaii all-inclusive vacation packages to be as transparent as possible. Every package on our website shows a day-by-day format of exactly what’s included. If you see a breakfast, dinner, or activity listed, it’s included. If it’s not listed, it means it’s not. That way, there are no surprises.

Here are the most common extra charges you may encounter:

Flights to Hawaii

Your main flight to Hawaii (from the U.S. mainland, Canada, Australia, or anywhere else you’re flying in from) is not included in our packages. Most travelers prefer booking their own flights so they can:

• Use frequent flyer miles
• Pick their favorite airline
• Choose flight times that work best for them

However, if you book one of our Premier Packages, we can add on flights for you. We’ll quote you for flights and arrange them if you’d like.

Even if you book flights on your own, we’re still happy to help. If you have questions about whether your dates line up correctly, if you’re flying in and out of the right airports, or if you just want an extra set of eyes, your agent will gladly assist—you’ll just be the one to actually purchase the tickets.

For island-hopping packages, your inter-island flight is included, but it’s usually a one-way ticket. That means you’ll book your return flight home directly from the last island.

Resort Fees

Most hotels and resorts in Hawaii charge a nightly resort fee (per room, not per person). These fees vary by property and are paid directly to the hotel when you check in.

All of the hotels and resorts we offer in our all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages have a hotel page on our website. At the bottom of that page, you’ll find the resort fee info and a list of what’s included. If you have trouble locating it, just ask your agent—they’ll be happy to send you the direct link.

Since you’re paying for these inclusions, make sure to take advantage of them. They might cover things like Wi-Fi, fitness center access, or beach chairs. Usually, the more upscale the property, the higher the resort fee.

Rental Cars

For any package on Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, a rental car is built in. (Oahu packages don’t include a car, since all of our Oahu hotels are located in the extremely walkable Waikīkī.)

Here’s how it works:

• We cover the state tax and unlimited mileage.
• You’ll pay around $30/day in miscellaneous fees and taxes, directly to the rental car company (per car, not per person).
• The exact amount depends on the size of the car—larger vehicles like SUVs carry higher fees than compact cars.
• You’re responsible for gas, and any extras like car seats or boosters.
• Your own auto insurance may cover rentals, but check before you travel. Optional coverage offered by the rental company would be an additional cost.

Resort Parking

If your package includes a rental car, you’ll need to park it at your hotel or resort. Most of our packages that include a car also include resort parking, but not all. Parking details are listed on your package page – or you can check with your booking agent to confirm.

 Gratuities

• Most included meals already have gratuity built in.
• If you order extra food or drinks (like alcohol), or if you upgrade your meal beyond what’s included in our package, you’ll pay the difference directly to the restaurant.
• Gratuities on those extras are also your responsibility.

Many packages include a massage—always a favorite! Massage therapist gratuities are not included, and they usually prefer cash tips if possible.

Also, while not required, some guests choose to tip tour guides or drivers when they’ve had an especially fun or memorable experience. It’s entirely up to you, but always appreciated.

Meals on Day One (and Lunches)

You’ll notice that dinner on day one is never included in our packages. That’s because everyone arrives at different times. Some travelers arrive late, others don’t feel like a sit-down dinner after a long flight. This way, you’re free to do your own thing the first night.

Most packages include daily breakfasts and many evenings include dinners (sometimes in the form of a luau or sunset dinner cruise). Just remember: if it’s listed in your package’s day-by-day format, it’s included. If it’s not listed, it isn’t.

Lunch is usually not included, since:

• Breakfasts are generous—often enough to carry you through most of the day.
• There’s a time difference, so breakfast in Hawaii may feel like lunch to your body.
• You’ll likely be out exploring the islands rather than sitting in a restaurant.

On full-day excursions, your guides will stop for lunch breaks, though meals are at your own expense.

Trip Cancellation Protection Plan

This optional add-on is highly recommended. Depending on your package, it’s as low as $98 per adult. It allows you to cancel or reschedule with much lower penalties than a standard cancellation. For details, just call or email your travel agent.

Planning Made Simple

We know planning a vacation can feel overwhelming, and we want you to feel completely confident about what’s included. That’s why we lay everything out clearly, day by day, right on each package page.

The bottom line: once you’re in Hawaii, all the major costs are completely covered. Beyond that, the only extras are resort fees, car rental fees, optional upgrades, gratuities, and dinner on your first night. Everything else is already taken care of. 😎

Still have questions? Whether you’re ready to book or just getting started, we’re here to help.

• If you’re already working with one of our Hawaii specialists, reach out to them directly by phone, text, or email.

• If not, you can contact us here or call us at 1-800-256-4211 and one of our agents will be glad to assist.