9 Ways to Save Money on a Sandals Resort Vacation (2024)

Is the cost of a Sandals trip putting a damper on your plans for romance and relaxation in the islands?  Below we list nine ways to save money on a Sandals resort vacation without sacrificing any luxury or fun. With our tips, you can easily enjoy a stay at one of these beautiful resorts without breaking the bank!

1. Travel During the Off-Season for the Best Rates

One way to save money on a Sandals resort is to travel during the off-season. The off-season is typically from late April to mid-June and then from late August to early November.

Rates will be lower during this period, and you can often find great deals.

Avoid significant holidays and weekends, school vacations, and the Caribbean’s high season (mid-December to mid-April). Sandals pricing is typically at its highest, and the resorts have the most occupancy during these travel periods.

2. Book Far In Advance (If Possible)

Prices seem to only go up as time passes, so it makes sense to book your trip as soon as possible.

When you book in advance, you’ll be able to lock in current prices, including any sale prices. It makes sense to book next year’s vacation at today’s prices. Planning ahead of the crowd also gives you more resorts and room options since the popular ones sell out quickly.

If possible, book your Sandals vacation 9-14 months in advance so you’ll lock in today’s price and have the best chance of getting your resort and room preference. And, because life is unpredictable, consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

3. Book a Room with Fewer Amenities

If you don’t need an ocean view or other luxury features, you can save money by booking a room with fewer amenities or one situated in the resort’s interior. It’s often the case for rooms at the lower end of the price range.

Guests staying in the less expensive rooms still enjoy all the same resort privileges – including access to the same pools, beaches, restaurants, bars, entertainment, activities, etc. – as the guests staying in the swim-up suites. You won’t have all the bells and whistles, but you’ll still have a luxury beach vacation experience.

As of 2024, the cheapest Sandals Resort rooms start at $197 (per person per night). Rates vary depending on the Sandals resort location you choose. For example, Sandals Ochi, Sandals South Coast, and Sandals Nigel tend to have the most affordable rooms – but not by much.

So long as you avoid the more expensive “Butler Level” and “Club Level” room tiers – and instead focus on the “Luxury Level” – you’ll be able to find some bargain pricing.

Again, make sure to book early to get the best deals!

4. Use a Sandals Vacation Planner

It’s never too early to start planning your next vacation.

If this is your first time to a Sandals resort property, we recommend that you connect with a Sandals vacation planner to help you through the process. These travel planners can help you find the perfect Sandals destination for your relaxing Caribbean getaway, and most won’t charge you anything for their planning services.  And those are just a few of the reasons to book Sandals with a travel agent.

Once you find a resort and room to your liking and within your budget, you can let your Sandals vacation planner worry about making the reservations.

5. Take Advantage of Discounts, Free Night Promotions, and Other Freebies

Sandals Resorts offers a variety of deals and promotions to help you save money on your stay. Some examples of recent and current promotions include:

• Jamaica Calling Sale: Enjoy special rates when you book your Jamaican all-inclusive vacation by a certain date. Plus, depending on the length of your stay, you may receive additional perks such as a free catamaran cruise or resort credit.
• 777 Weekly Deals: Book within a specific time frame and get an extra 7% off the lowest listed price for a room category.
• Service Personnel Discount: Sandals Resorts often offers an additional 10% discount on top of all special promotions for firefighters, military, police, and FEMA members.
• Free Wedding: When you book three nights or more, Sandals provides you with a free wedding that includes a bouquet, boutonniere, cake, and a stunning ceremony venue. Wow!
• Anniversary Offer: Sandals will grant you a free night’s stay if you celebrate a wedding anniversary within 30 days of your visit. To qualify, you must stay at least seven nights in the Club Level or Butler Level room category.
• Sandals Free Night Promotion: This frequent bonus includes the 6th or 7th night free for specific resorts and room categories, typically offered on higher room categories.

From time to time, Sandals offers discounts and promotions on their resorts. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to take advantage of a great deal. Be sure to check with The Vacationeer for the latest promotions to save money on your Sandals Resort stay. They can help you find the best deals and ensure you receive the best possible pricing for your vacation.

6. Sign Up for the Layaway Plan

When you book your trip, you can pay in full or opt for the “Layaway & Playaway program,” which is Sandals’ version of a layaway plan.

If you choose the latter, you must pay the total price of your Luxury Included holiday in 3- to 24-month installments when you make a reservation online, by phone, or at the Loyalty & Travel desk at the resort.

Contact The Vacationeer to learn more about the interest-free Layaway & Playaway program.

Payment plans don’t technically save you money on your Sandals vacation, per se, but they ease the burden of paying for it all at once. Early booking can also be a hedge against inflation. It’s always best to book your trip as soon as possible.

7. Join the Sandals Select Rewards Program

The Sandals Select Rewards program is a free loyalty program that is open to everyone. By enrolling in this program, you can earn points and benefits that will enhance your Sandals experience without incurring the full cost.

You can easily enroll in the program either online or by checking in at the resort. Alternatively, you can let your Sandals travel planner do it for you. To get started, simply contact The Vacationeer.

8. Use Points or Miles

Sandals rates are based on a per person, per night basis. While airport transfers are included in the price of your stay, your flight to Sandals is not included.

If you have accumulated points or miles with a particular airline or by using the Sandals Visa Signature credit card, you may be able to use them towards your stay at a Sandals resort. This can help offset the cost of your vacation.

9. Skip the Extras and Take Advantage of the All-Inclusive Perks

Sandals Resorts are the ultimate all-inclusive vacation destination, which means that just about everything you need is included in your stay (see what’s included later in this article). However, there are a few things that are not included:

• Spa treatments, optional tours, and golf caddies are not included, but you can add these for an additional fee.
• Gift shop items, phone calls, and scuba certification (or refresher courses) are also not included in the price of your stay but can be added on for an additional fee if you’re interested.
• Excursions and tours are optional additions to your vacation. Some of the best excursions allow for unique experiences to enhance your trip, for an additional fee.
• Medical assistance is also not included but is available for an extra fee if you should need it during your stay.
• Tips are included in your Sandals vacation package, so there’s no need to worry about carrying extra cash. However, you are welcome to tip your butler or spa provider at your discretion if you utilize their services.

While these extras can be tempting, if you’re looking to save money on your Sandals resort vacation, it’s best to stick with the included amenities and activities. Take advantage of the complimentary water sports, fitness classes, entertainment, and dining options to make the most of your all-inclusive experience without adding to your bill. By focusing on the incredible array of included features and skipping the optional add-ons, you can enjoy a luxurious and relaxing Sandals vacation while still keeping your budget in check.

How Much Will You Save with These Tips?

Determining how much money you can save on a Sandals Resort vacation can be difficult because so many variables exist. The time of year, the resort location, the type of room you book, and other factors will all affect the price. However, the strategies listed above should help you with saving money on your stay.

It’s essential to be flexible with your travel dates and willing to compare prices to find the best deals. However, with a little bit of planning, you can enjoy all the luxury and relaxation these resorts offer without breaking the bank!

What Does “All-Inclusive” Mean at a Sandals Resort?

Sandals Resorts may appear expensive at first glance, but they actually offer great value. All eighteen of their properties are exclusively for adults and provide all-inclusive packages, which makes them stand out from other resort destinations. The luxury inclusions of Sandals sets them apart from other all-inclusive resorts, making them an affordable choice when you consider what you get for the price.

Sandals is one of the few travel brands that offer all-inclusive packages.

All-inclusive means your stay, unlimited food, drinks, activities, and entertainment are included in the booking price of the resort – without any surprise costs. 

Once you arrive at the resort, you don’t have to worry about budgeting for anything else because everything is already included in the cost of your stay. It’s a great feeling!

Here is what’s included in the cost of your stay:

• Luxury accommodations
• All meals, fine dining, and anytime snacks
• Drinks are always included and always unlimited (including top-shelf cocktails, liquors, beers, and wines)
• Land Sports (fitness center, beach volleyball, billiards, rock climbing, etc)
• Sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, and more
• Scuba Diving (when certified)
• Golf green fees in St. Lucia and Jamaica
• Luxury airport transfers
• WiFi in rooms and common areas
• Entertainment and nightlife
• Exchange privileges with nearby Sandals resorts
• FREE Weddings
• Tips, gratuities, and hotel taxes are included!

When you consider how much value is included in the cost, you realize that Sandals resort vacations aren’t really as expensive as they first appear. However, you should still look for ways to save money on a Sandals vacation.

Start Planning Your Sandals Vacation Now!

Are you ready to start planning your Sandals vacation?

It’s time you discover the sun, sand, and all of the luxuries you deserve. Contact The Vacationeer and find out how their travel planning services can help you find the best Sandal resort for your tropical Caribbean getaway.

The Vacationeer’s experienced travel agents will help you find the perfect Sandals resort for your needs and make sure you receive the best possible deal.  Prices are always fluctuating, so ask about the current and upcoming Sandals promotions as you plan your travel to the islands. They know all the best tips to save money on your trip and can work with Sandals Resorts Customer Service to ensure that the best possible pricing is applied to your stay.

Request a free, no-obligation quote to find out how affordable a Sandals vacation can be. Click the button below to get started.