20 Essential Tips on How to Save Money on a Cruise
From flight deals to free drink promotions, these tips will help you enjoy your cruise without overspending
Relaxing on a deckchair aboard a cruise ship, sipping a cocktail, and watching the ocean waves gently roll by. Ahh, it’s the picture of a stress-free vacation. But this relaxation doesn’t come without costs, of course.
With the price of a cruise ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, every dollar saved can make a difference. To help you maximize your vacation budget, we’ve compiled 20 expert tips on how to save money on a cruise.
When booking your cruise
- Book early or last-minute: The further in advance you book, the more cabin options you’ll have, which can lead to better prices. Alternatively, if you’re flexible, you can score steep discounts when you book last-minute cruises that set sail within the next few weeks.
- Be flexible: Stay open-minded about your ship selection, ports of call, sail dates, and cabin type to secure the best deals.
- Sign up for cruise loyalty programs: These programs offer some of the best discounts and deals. Register on a cruise line's website to join.
- Leverage your casino play: Frequent gamblers may earn rewards such as free cruises, gifts, onboard credits, and other perks.
- Use a travel rewards credit card: A travel rewards credit card, like the AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature Credit Card, can earn bonus points or cash back on cruise bookings and travel purchases.
Once your cruise is booked
- Book shore excursions in advance: Early bookings can often save money, and booking independently of the cruise line might offer additional savings.
- Watch for price drops: If your booking includes a price-match guarantee, you could receive onboard credits or upgrades if prices drop.
- Secure your ground transportation: Book parking or shuttle rides in advance to save money and ensure availability.
- Watch for upgrade offers, sales, and bundle deals: Check for discounts on excursions, spa packages, and cabin upgrades.
- Book flights and hotels early: Secure the best prices by booking early and consider hotels with park-and-cruise packages.
Packing for your cruise
- Bring your own drinks: Most cruise lines allow a limited number of nonalcoholic beverages and sometimes wine or champagne, saving money on marked-up drinks.
- Pack medicine and a first-aid kit: A visit to the ship’s doctor can be costly. Bring over-the-counter medication and supplies for minor health issues.
- Bring enough toiletries: Necessities like toothpaste and sunscreen are expensive on cruise ships. Stock up before your trip or buy in port for better deals.
- Pack for all types of weather: A comprehensive cruise packing checklist ensures you’re prepared, avoiding the need for pricey onboard purchases.
- Don’t overpack: Heavier bags can lead to higher airline baggage fees and other costs. Pack efficiently to save money.
While aboard your cruise
- Take advantage of onboard promotions: Check your daily cruise newsletter for specials on drinks, food, spa services, and more.
- Seize the free drinks: Some cruise events, like welcome receptions, may offer complimentary drinks. Ship casinos often provide free drinks to active players.
- Enjoy the ship on port days: Avoid shore excursion costs and enjoy fewer crowds, onboard discounts, and free food.
- Shop strategically: Save most of your shopping for port stops, where prices are often lower than onboard shops.
- Monitor your onboard account: Keep track of your charges daily to stay within budget and pay down your balance before disembarking.
The only thing better than having a wonderful vacation is knowing that you saved a bundle. By using these tips on how to save money on a cruise, your next trip is sure to make both you and your wallet happier.