Five Tips to Save Money on a Cruise Vacation

More than 26 million people vacation on cruise ships every year and have a great time with friends and family. The net worth of the cruising industry is in billions and doesn’t seem to be coming down any time soon.

Cruising isn’t as expensive as some people make it sound. If you’re planning to set off on an affordable vacation, cruising is the perfect option. However, the total cost rise when you add in extras.

The following is a list of tips to keep in mind when going on a cruise vacation:

1. Plan your Budget

This is the first step to ensure you don’t spend more than you can afford. Devote a specific amount for the trip and divide it into planned expenses and activities. A wise tip is to leave some extra money with a friend or relative if you aren’t allowed to fly with more than a specific amount.

Install a money transfer application on their phone and educate them about how to send money with a mobile app in case you get short on budget during the trip.

2. Contact a Travel Agent

Always consult a travel agent before setting off for a trip. A travel agent can help you get cabin credit and several perks before going on board. For instance, if you book through a travel agency, you might be provided with coupon codes and discounts to get cheaper drinks and snacks.

READ MORE: 9 More Money Saving Cruise Tips

Don’t forget, whichever travel agency you contact, they’ll always ask you to deposit some advance amount. If the cruise ship lowers its cost after your booking, the travel agent will help you get even a lower price.

3. Book Early

The best way to get a maximum discount is to book a few months prior to your cruise vacation. If you book a cruise 90 days before your trip, you might save as much as 50 percent on the cruise fare. Booking early means you can get a ship at a lower cost because prices could start to rise when the ship starts filling up.

4. Consider All Cabin Options

Some people like to splurge on cruises and want all the facilities within a single cabin. However, the ultimate bliss of a cruising vacation lies in enjoying the sunlight on the ship with some basic amenities. It is better to be flexible to adapt to all kinds of conditions. You can also look for inside cabins because they are cheaper.

5. Avoid Expensive Internet Packages

The ethos behind setting off on a trip is to go on a social detox. We are not suggesting you cut off from the world, but it is better to spend some quality time with yourself. Internet packages offered by cruise lines are expensive because of high demand.

An average cruiser is expected to pay between $15 and $50 per day for the premium internet package. Therefore, it is better to reach the port to check your emails. Social plans can be obtained for much cheaper.