Some people are really into all-inclusive vacations while others just can’t stand the idea. Some folks love lounging around, enjoying endless buffets, and feeling completely stress-free. But then there are those who dread being stuck in the same hotel for more than a week.

I fall somewhere in the middle. The idea of doing the exact same thing every day, seeing the same faces, and eating at the same restaurant for an entire week doesn’t thrill me. Still, I do appreciate stress-free relaxation, 5-star luxury, and chilling on a beautiful, exotic beach.

All-inclusive holidays can be a budget-friendly option, especially if you’re too busy to plan every detail yourself. In September, I took an all-inclusive trip to Egypt with Thomas Cook and had an amazing time. I picked up a few tips along the way and thought I’d share them for anyone thinking about doing the same.

1. Understand that 5 isn’t always 5
Different countries have different standards for what qualifies as a 5-star hotel. In Egypt, their 5-star might not match the luxury you expect in the UK. I stayed at a 6-star hotel that felt more like a good 4-star. I’m not complaining—the hotel was gorgeous, and I loved my time there, but it’s important to keep your expectations grounded to avoid disappointment.

2. Book the best you can afford
Often, a 5-star hotel doesn’t cost much more than a 4-star. Since you’ll be spending most of your time there, it’s worth splurging a little for the best hotel you can afford. Unlike a cheap beach bungalow in Southeast Asia or a budget hostel in Europe, an all-inclusive hotel is where you’ll spend a lot of time, so make sure it’s nice.

3. Be cautious with TripAdvisor reviews
When researching my all-inclusive holiday, I found that TripAdvisor reviews can be hit or miss. Some reviews made my hotel sound like heaven, while others compared it to a rundown place in Blackpool. Remember, people usually leave reviews when they’ve had an extraordinary or terrible experience, so take everything with a grain of salt.

4. Sort out your visa ahead of time, or bring cash
In Egypt, you need a visa on arrival, which costs $25. The visa desk doesn’t take cards, and there are no ATMs on that side of security. I had to get escorted through security to use an ATM, which was pretty embarrassing. Make sure you’re prepared to avoid this hassle.

5. Tip the bellboy and room cleaners as soon as you arrive
In Egypt, it’s customary to tip your room cleaners and bellboys when you arrive, not just when you leave. A good initial tip ensures they’ll take excellent care of you throughout your stay. If you’re low on cash, as I was, you might not see the bellboy again after he drops off your luggage.

6. Use the gyms and spas
With all the food available, it’s easy to put on weight during an all-inclusive holiday. To stay fit, make use of the gym. The gym at Baron Palace was nicer than the one I pay £50 a month for at home, and it was usually empty. Even if you’re pregnant, like I was, staying active is important. Plus, a short workout is a great excuse to indulge in dessert!

7. Try scuba diving
Most resorts in Egypt offer free introductory scuba sessions. Take advantage of this to see if you like diving without spending much. These sessions often occur in the pool, providing a safe and calm environment to try it out.

8. Pack rehydration sachets
Almost everyone I’ve talked to has experienced some kind of stomach trouble in Egypt. Staying hydrated is key. Pack rehydration sachets that contain essential salts and minerals to keep yourself well. If you do get sick, sit in the shade and drink plenty of water.

9. Take as many day trips as you can
Egypt has so much to offer, so try to fit in as many day trips as possible. I visited Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, went on a scuba diving/snorkeling trip, and explored Myanmar Island. I wish I had booked more trips but dealing with language barriers slowed us down.

10. Load up your Kindle
While adventurous outings are great, there’s nothing like a relaxing day by the pool with your Kindle and a cocktail—or a mocktail if you’re like me.

Do you have any more tips for an all-inclusive holiday?