5 Cruise Charges You Can Avoid

Jan 31, 2013 11:55 - emilygreen | 924 views

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A luxury cruise can be one of the most exciting ways to take a vacation. The open sea can be a relaxing backdrop that helps the stress of the day to melt away while, at the same time, the excitement of visiting new places breaks up the trip and keeps it interesting. As you prepare for your cruise vacation, there are a few little tricks you can use that will save you money.

Flight Expenses

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Many cruise companies will offer customers a package that includes airfare and the cost of the cruise all in one price. If you are looking into the prices of alaskan cruises, then getting a bundled package may seem like a great idea, but there is a good chance that you can get a much better price on your flight if you look for separate arrangements. The small amount of hassle it takes to book your own flight will be more than offset by the savings you will see in your overall expenses.

Ask First

 Image via Flickr by Tara Angkor Hotel

One of the biggest misconceptions that people have about cruises is that everything is included in the cost of the cruise. You will find that seemingly harmless events, such as a cruise photos, can add up quick and be added to your cruise tab. Since the cruise lines do not take cash on the ships, everything that costs you will get added to your tab and you will need to settle that tab before you leave the ship. Before you do anything on board your ship, always ask if it is an activity that will get added to your tab, and ask for the amount as well.

Watch Your Kids

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Some people bring their kids on cruises, which is a great experience for the kids, but when your kids start making phone calls to shore and playing video games that cost money, then your vacation costs can start to add up. Keep a close eye on your kids and make sure that you avoid unexpected charges at the end of the cruise.

Soft Drinks

 Image via Flickr by mdid

When you get a soft drink with your meal, it is included in the cost of your cruise, but when you get a soft drink in the ship’s casino, then that is going to cost you. There are two ways you can save money on soft drinks during your cruise. The first way is to buy the beverage package and get unlimited soft drinks for one price. Your other option is to bring powdered drink mix with you and mix it in with the free fresh water you get on the ship.

Avoid Paying for Food

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Your cruise came with all the food you can eat in the ship’s dining room, but you are still given the option of dining in other places on the ship that will charge you. The smartest thing to do is enjoy the free meals and never pay for your food during the cruise.

A cruise can be a great experience, but it can also be an expensive experience if you are not careful. Learn the ways to save money on a cruise and enjoy yourself without going broke.

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