Learning French: what is the difference between tout compris and tout inclus?

A French relative recently returned from a spring break in the Canary Islands on a package holiday. He was gushing about the ‘tout compris’ deal he had bagged – it was the first time in decades that he had gone on an all-inclusive break, and simply could not believe the value for money (bon rapport qualité prix is the French phrase used).

Later in the enthusiastic retelling of his unlimited bar and buffet experiences, he also used the phrase ‘tout inclus’ - which also means ‘everything included’.

So which is the correct phrase – tout compris or tout inclus? [To complicate matters, only days later a French friend actually used the English ‘all-inclusive’ to describe her own recent bargain break.]

And when booking your own such holiday via a French website or company, how do you know what is really ‘included’ in the price?

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In short, while inclus and compris have the same basic meaning, in this context they are not always interchangeable. 

Double check to avoid extra charges 

It all depends on the hotel – tout compris generally includes the room, meals and, sometimes, a selection of drinks – this can also be referred to as pension complète or ‘full board’.

Meanwhile, tout inclus usually refers to ‘all expenses paid’, meaning other services and activities beyond food, drink and accommodation are also included within your bill.

The most sensible course of action is, prior to booking, to double check with the hotel or travel agency in question to avoid any unexpected surprises when you finally check out – and you discover that those Armagnacs you enjoyed at the end of your final meal cost €50 each!

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