Analysis of data shows that going all-inclusive in Portugal is cheaper than staying at home and doing the same activities

• A 5-star trip to Portugal with golf, food and drinks is nearly £40 cheaper than staying at home
• Cost of living plus gap in costs of activities between UK and Europe mean travelling can be more affordable than staying put
• Experts weigh in on the benefits of all-inclusive including better weather

York, UK: With fuel costs and the general cost of living still remaining high, it’s been calculated that those in need of some winter luxury and a few rounds of golf would be better off by £40 doing so abroad.

Figures from Glencor Golf Holidays found that an all-inclusive luxury golf holiday to Portugal would cost less than treating yourself at home in the UK.

Corrie Renton, Director of Glencor Golf Holidays, said: “We’ve seen a big increase in people looking for winter luxury, especially when the weather here means getting a round of golf is a rarity.

“People are always surprised by the cost of all-inclusive. Especially when we start to break down what they get included.”

Cost of luxurious week at home over winter

• Heating and electricity: £45/week
• Food and drink: £100/week
• Five rounds of golf: £175
• Petrol: £31
• Commute: £84
• Swimming: £42
• Gym: £49
• Childcare: £200
• Gig: £35

Grand total: £761/week per person.

Glencor Golf Holidays, which specialises in golf breaks to Europe and further afield, found that 7 nights, with five rounds of golf, at the five-star NAU Sao Rafael Suites in Albufeira in Portugal costs £674 in November and December.  

Flights to Faro at this time of year can be had from as little as £47, for a total of £721.

Booking through Glencor gives you:

• 5 rounds of golf
• Free airport transfers
• Free golf shuttle bus

The NAU Sao Rafael Suites includes:

• Pool access
• Food all day
• Unlimited drinks
• Kids activities at the kids club
• Gym access
• Entertainment including live music

You’ll also benefit from considerably better weather with highs of 61 degrees, compared to London’s average highs of 45 degrees.

Experts agree  - going all in saves money

The cost differences highlight the benefits of booking a package holiday in days when people like to take control of every aspect of their trip.  It also highlights the difference in costs between luxury experiences in the UK to those abroad.

Maddison Ryan, Travel Guide and Owner of Traveling Italian, said: “One of the top benefits of booking an all inclusive holiday is having the one contact to go to and having the itinerary easily accessible.

“The money is also a huge advantage as package holiday operators usually have preferential rates with all the vendors and can sometimes give you a discount on the whole package, but also the time saved booking and managing your holiday.

“That feeling when your driver picks your family or group up and you don't have to worry about a thing for your whole holiday.”

David Ciccarelli, CEO & Founder, Lake, which specialises in luxury lakeside holidays, added: “I have seen how renters prefer all-inclusive packages, especially during holiday season, because it simplifies the travelling experience.

“Renters who book every aspect individually often complain about fluctuating prices and hidden costs. All-inclusive packages are much easier and more convenient for travellers.

“Inclusive packages and bundles are more cost-efficient as they group all the costs of the utilities under one negotiated rate.”

Bryce Collins, Marketing Director, INTRO, said: “All-inclusive options come with bulk buying power, so rooms and tee times are locked in together. That can cut roughly 15 percent off what you'd spend booking each bit on your own. Best of all is that there won't be any surprise add-ons since transfers, resort fees and tips are already covered.”

Alex Veka, Founder, Vibe Adventures, added: Having run trips for over 15 years, I've found that true all-inclusive packages are generally cheaper - especially when you factor in the expense of your hours and headache associated with coordinating everything yourself.

“Packages lock in the price, while DIY is subject to air and hotel rate fluctuations as well as currency fluctuations. Packages in locations like the UK and EU also come with an extra layer of protection — if your supplier goes bankrupt, you don't receive that on a DIY trip.”