10 Money-Saving Cruise Hacks: Insider Tips for Budget-Friendly Sailing
Cruise Enthusiast Shares Tips to Avoid Overspending on Vacation
Experienced traveler Holly Johnson has shared her insights on how to avoid common spending pitfalls while enjoying a cruise vacation. Johnson, who appreciates the all-inclusive nature of cruises, emphasizes the importance of careful planning to prevent unnecessary expenses.
Johnson highlights several areas where cruisers often overspend, including ATM fees, drink packages, onboard shopping, spa treatments, excursions, and packing essentials. She advises bringing cash from home to avoid high ATM fees in ports, especially in the Caribbean and Europe where US dollars are often accepted.
For those who enjoy frequent beverages, Johnson recommends considering drink packages offered by cruise lines like MSC Cruises. These packages can provide value for money and peace of mind for passengers who consume multiple drinks daily.
The seasoned cruiser warns against impulse purchases in onboard shops, noting that many items can be bought more affordably before the trip. She also suggests waiting for spa treatment discounts, which often appear later in the cruise and can offer savings of up to 40%.
When it comes to excursions, Johnson advocates for a balanced approach. She recommends mixing organized tours with relaxed onboard activities to avoid overscheduling and overspending. As an example, she mentions opting for a resort day pass in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, as an alternative to more expensive excursions.
Lastly, Johnson stresses the importance of thorough packing to avoid costly onboard purchases of essentials like toiletries and medications. She suggests that checking an extra bag when flying to the cruise departure point can be more economical in the long run.
By following these tips, cruise enthusiasts can better manage their vacation budgets while still enjoying all that cruise travel has to offer.
