DealDash Tips for Planning a Budget-Friendly Cruise
Now is a great time to plan a summer cruise. It can get expensive, so it’s important to keep an eye on your budget.
A family cruise sounds like a dream, with endless food, exciting destinations, and activities for all ages. But cruises can also be expensive if you’re not careful! The good news? With some smart planning, you can set sail without having to dip into your savings. Here’s how to plan a budget-friendly cruise for your family, with tips from DealDash.
Cruise Smart: Timing Is Everything
Cruise prices fluctuate based on the season, so choosing the right time to book can make a big difference. Sailing during the off-season (typically January to February or September to November) can help you find much lower fares compared to peak summer months or holiday seasons. When it comes to booking, you have two main strategies: book early or wait for last-minute deals. Reserving your trip 6 to 12 months in advance often comes with perks like free onboard credit or cabin upgrades. On the other hand, if you’re flexible, last-minute deals (within 60 days of sailing) can offer deep discounts.
Checking different departure ports can also save money, as some locations have better deals than others. Another way to save money is by driving to a port instead of flying. When my family plans a cruise we look at all of the ports from Boston all the way down to Maryland. We don’t mind driving a few hours to find an interesting itinerary or save hundreds (or thousands!) of dollars.
Choose the Right Cruise Ship & Cabin
Not all cruise ships are priced the same. Larger, newer ships tend to have higher fares, while older or smaller ships often offer more budget-friendly options. Choosing the right cabin also plays a big role in keeping costs down. Interior cabins are the most affordable, and they’re a great choice if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship and ports. Many cruise lines also offer family promotions, such as “kids sail free” deals, which can help you save even more. Another option is booking a “guaranteed cabin,” where the cruise line assigns your room. While you won’t get to pick the exact location, this can significantly lower the price of your trip.
Save on Extras: Excursions, Drinks & Wi-Fi
Onboard expenses can quickly add up, but there are plenty of ways to keep them under control. Instead of booking expensive cruise-sponsored excursions, consider exploring ports on your own or finding budget-friendly local tours. Many destinations have beautiful beaches, walking tours, or cultural sites that cost little to nothing. Drinks can also be a major expense, so check your cruise line’s policy on bringing your own beverages, many allow a limited amount of soda or wine. Another frugal tip is to skip the pricey onboard Wi-Fi package and use free Wi-Fi spots in port.
DealDash Has Luggage and Travel Supplies
Even if you’re trying to travel on a budget, you might need a few new travel supplies. The good news is that DealDash has plenty of travel bags, packing cubes, toiletries, and more to enhance your cruise. If you’re looking for a new travel bag, you will find lots of choices on DealDash. You will find classy vegan leather bags, belt bags, and tote bags up for bid.
Thanks for Reading
Thanks so much for reading. By booking smart, choosing the right cabin, and cutting back on unnecessary extras, you can enjoy an amazing family adventure at sea without overspending. With a little planning and flexibility, you’ll be ready to set sail on an unforgettable trip without the stress of an oversized bill. Have you ever scored a great cruise deal? Share your best budget-friendly cruise tips in the comments. Have a great day, and happy bidding everyone!
This sponsored DealDash blog article was written by Dawn E, a mother of 3 who loves DealDash. Dawn was compensated for writing this article. Check out Dawn and her cats on Instagram! This blog is written by real DealDash customers. The opinions and advice shared here represent our customers’ views and not those of the company.
