megan drillinger
History really does repeat itself. We’ve all seen the wave of TV reboots that we somehow end up watching even when we didn’t want to. Only this time, instead of another “Full House” revival, Gen Z is bringing back the all-inclusive resort trend. According to Hotels.com’s Unpack ’25 Travel Trends Report, 42% of Gen Z travelers prefer all-inclusive stays, and searches for these resorts are up 60% year over year. But unlike that clunky TV reboot, this comeback is polished, polished, and significantly upgraded. Particularly in Mexico, all-inclusive resorts have been leading the way for years and changing the landscape.
all inclusive glow up
Gone are the days of bland buffets and crowded pools. In fact, they’ve been gone for quite some time. Over the years, the all-inclusive brand has reinvented itself and transformed into a luxury haven that blends convenience and world-class amenities. Hotel Mousai, for example, is on the cutting edge with its chic, adults-only atmosphere. The brand, which made waves in Puerto Vallarta, recently opened a new resort in Cancun. We offer a trendy rooftop pool, gourmet dining, and cutting-edge, Instagram-ready design for Gen Z travelers looking for a special experience.
Grand Velas is also a game changer. The Riviera Maya property and the new Los Cabos resort are home to Cocina de Autre, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves innovative, avant-garde cuisine and shatters the myth that all-inclusive dining is mediocre at best. Masu. It’s a foodie’s paradise, drawing travelers looking for a dining experience that’s as memorable as their vacation.
And let’s not forget Hotel Xcaret, which flips the all-inclusive model on its head by including access to an adventurous eco-park. From ziplining to snorkeling to exploring Mayan ruins, guests have a front row seat to nature, culture and adrenaline, all included. Their “all-encompassing fun” approach offers Gen Z the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation without worrying about additional costs.
Why Gen Z is obsessed with it
The appeal for Gen Z can be summed up in one word: simplicity. With 41% of Gen Z travelers citing minimal stress as their top reason for choosing an all-inclusive, it’s clear that this generation wants to relax without the hassle. Prepaid pricing that includes food, drinks, activities, and entertainment makes it easy to enjoy your trip without checking your bank account every so often.
But it’s not just about convenience. Social media, especially TikTok, is helping to fuel the resurgence of all-inclusive resorts. The hashtag #allinclusive exploded as Gen Z travelers shared their poolside views, gourmet meals, and sun-kissed adventures, inspiring others to jump on the bandwagon. It has racked up 538 million views in the past two years.
mexico is in the lead
All-inclusive resorts in Mexico are perfectly positioned for this Gen Z travel boom. They’ve been chasing the latest innovations for nearly a decade, and their options are only getting more fashionable and diverse. From the cool contemporary vibe of Hotel Mousai to the luxury and gastronomy of Grand Velas to the adventure-packed service of Hotel Xcaret, these resorts have successfully reinvented themselves to meet the tastes of a new generation.
So while TV reboots may continue to try to relive the past, the return of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico isn’t just a nostalgic nod, it’s an evolution. For Gen Z travelers, all-inclusives are now the go-to for luxury and ease, and Mexico has become a prime destination.
