Money saving tips for your cruise!

Cruising is a fun way to vacation, and the industry is more popular than ever right now. You can take advantage of an all inclusive vacation without traveling to just one location! But just like any other vacation, it's easy to spend a lot of extra money if you aren't careful. Here are some tips to keep costs down and even save a little cash.

Consider Off Site Parking

Every cruise line offers on-site parking in most places, but it can be expensive. With proper research, independent parking lots can save a significant amount of money. It's important to look at the security measures and location of the off-site parking. Some are within a short walk, and some even offer transportation to the cruise terminal. Your travel planner can assist you with this.

Buy packages BEFORE cruising.

There are a lot of optional items for your time on a cruise ship. Onboard credit, wifi and drinks packages, specialty dining packages, excursions and more. The price to add these services goes up significantly once you are on the ship. Also, consider what type of consumer you are. If you don't drink much alcohol maybe the premium drinks package is not for you. Do a little planning (with your travel planner) and save big money.

Bring Your Own Alcohol

Depending on the cruise line, you can bring some alcohol with you. Beer and liquor are usually not allowed. If the only time you plan to drink is for a special occasion in your room why not bring your own wine or champagne. Your travel planner can tell you what is and what is not allowed.

BONUS TIP you can also bring snacks and bottle water in your luggage. This can be especially helpful when traveling with kids and they have picky tastes!

Book your Next Cruise While Still on Board

Cruise lines want to take advantage of the fact that you are (hopefully) having a great time on your cruise and you want to go again. You can get major savings on a future cruise by booking it before you leave the ship. The great thing about this is it usually only requires a small deposit and you don't even need to book a specific itinerary date. You can tell your travel agent that you put a deposit down on future cruise credits and they can take care of it from there!

Some Shops Offer Free Food

There are sooo many shops onboard offering all kinds of treats. Many of these shops will offer complimentary samples, all you have to do is ask. The complimentary food is there for everyone, so what's the worst that can happen? You hear a polite no.

Dine in Fine Restaurants on the First Day of Cruising

Cruise ships have some AMAZING restaurants! It's okay to splurge, you earned it, but the best day to do that is the first day. Most people wait to go to these restaurants until later in the cruise, so many cruises offer discounts on the first day to keep the restaurants full.

Book after Cancellation Date for Discounts

If you are a last minute traveller you can get steep discounts booking last minute. This can be risky as you might not find anything at all. Cruises slash prices after the cancellation date to fill the ship. Working with your travel agent to help you find last minute deals will help you to maximize your savings!

BONUS TIP Do you have a group of friends that share similar interests? Why not put a group together? Group rates can offer significant savings for travelers.

Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode!

Most cruise ships have wifi available to guests, but there is a cost and it is usually by device (phone, Ipad, laptop). If you opted for only wifi for one device and your travel partner did not enable airplane mode, you will have some hefty roaming charges waiting for you when you get back home! Discuss what package is right for you with your travel agent so you can enjoy your cruise in the way that is right for you.

What other money saving tips do YOU have?