What is half board - everything you need to know before booking your trip

When booking a trip or a hotel stay, you often come across the term half board. In short, it's about how many meals are included in the price, and it can have a big impact on your budget, freedom in your daily schedule, and how much you have to plan along the way.

Half board typically means that the stay includes accommodation and two meals a day. In most cases, this is breakfast and dinner. It can vary from place to place, whether the meals are served as a buffet or a menu, and whether they must be eaten at specific times. Therefore, it is a good idea to check what exactly is stated in the hotel description before you book.

Some places include dinner every day, while others offer a set number of dinners per week. It's also worth checking to see if drinks are included or if they're paid for separately. That way, you'll avoid any surprises when you get to the table.

The main difference between the types of board is the number of meals included. Half board usually covers breakfast and dinner, while full board often includes three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. All inclusive typically goes further and may also include snacks and selected drinks, but the content varies greatly between hotels.

Half board is in between: You get a solid base with two meals, but have the freedom to explore local eateries or go on excursions without having to “get back” for lunch.

One of the biggest advantages of half board is the balance between security and flexibility. Breakfast makes it easy to start the day, and dinner means you can come “home” for a meal without having to look for a restaurant every night. At the same time, lunch can be adjusted to the day’s plans.

The downside is that you have to arrange lunch yourself, and the timing of dinner may affect how long you will be away from the hotel. If you often go on day trips, it may be worth considering whether half board suits your rhythm.

When lunch is not included, many people end up taking short breaks on the go. Here it makes sense to pack light and functionally, so that you don't lug around unnecessary things. A quick-drying towel that can be hung up after use can be nice after the pool, beach or spa, especially when you want to spend your time on experiences rather than logistics. An obvious choice is an INDOOR towel with Polygiene StayFresh technology, which is an antibacterial treatment that can reduce odor and the need for frequent washing. Less washing can mean lower water consumption, and at the same time, there is no packaging, so you cut down on unnecessary packaging.

Check in advance when dinner is served so you can plan your excursions without stress. This will give you both the freedom of the day and the easy end of the evening that half-board is known for.