10 Hacks for Cruising on a Budget
Cruising can offer a luxurious vacation, but those extra amenities and services often come with a hefty price tag. If you’ve booked a budget cruise, you might be wondering if it’s possible to enjoy a first-class experience without splurging on upgrades. The good news is that with some smart strategies and a bit of creativity, you can absolutely transform your cruise into a luxury getaway while keeping your costs in check.
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1. Start with a Flourish at Sail Away
Sail-away is one of the most thrilling moments on any cruise! You’ll likely find a lively party on deck, complete with a DJ and dancing. It’s the perfect time to kick off your cruise in style with a toast alongside your fellow travelers. Most cruise lines offer a welcome reception with complimentary glasses of champagne – check your cruise planner or ask your stateroom attendant where it’s being held.
If you prefer a more private experience, why not enjoy the luxury of your cabin? You could splurge and pre-order champagne and chocolates through your cruise account to have them waiting for you. But here’s a budget-friendly tip: most cruise lines allow guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne onboard during embarkation. Take advantage of this perk by bringing your own bottle, then ask your room steward for champagne flutes and a bucket of ice. Head to the buffet for some delicious cheese and snacks, and tune into the live sea camera on your TV. You’ll be able to celebrate the start of your vacation in style, all from the comfort of your room.
Budget
Go to the welcome reception for a free glass of champagne.
Mid-Range
Carry a bottle of champagne onboard during embarkation.
Luxury
Order champagne to be delivered to your stateroom.
2. Maximize Your Space
Cruise cabins are often small, but but with a little planning and creativity, you can transform even the smallest space into a cozy and functional retreat. The key is to make the most of every square inch and take advantage of the clever storage solutions thoughtfully built into the design by cruise ship architects. From hidden drawers under the bed to shelves tucked into unexpected places, there are usually more storage opportunities than first meet the eye.
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If you’re cruising solo, one of the easiest ways to make your cabin feel more spacious is to have any unnecessary furniture removed. Ask your room attendant to take out extra chairs, tables, or even the coffee table if you won’t be using it. Freeing up floor space can make a big difference. On the flip side, if you’re traveling with a companion, don’t hesitate to request an extra chair or any additional seating that might make your shared space more comfortable.
Your room attendant is there to help make your stay as enjoyable as possible, so don’t be shy about requesting something that will make your cruise more relaxing. If the bed feels too firm or isn’t quite what you’re used to, ask for a mattress topper or extra blankets. These simple additions can make your bed far cozier. Want to take it a step further? Pack your own silk pillowcase. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and adds a touch of luxury while being gentle on your skin and hair—a small indulgence that makes a big impact.
3. Upgrade Your Beauty Routine
While cruise ships typically provide basic bath products like shampoo and body wash, bringing your favorite toiletries in travel-sized bottles can elevate your onboard experience. There’s something indulgent about using familiar scents and high-quality products, especially when you’re relaxing at sea. Whether it’s your go-to haircare brand, a rich body lotion, or a luxurious face cleanser, packing your personal favorites can make your daily routine feel more pampering.
Many cruise lines also offer complimentary beauty product samples during onboard spa tours, wellness seminars, or promotional events. These little extras can be a fun way to try out new skincare or wellness items without spending a dime. Don’t be shy about asking the spa staff if there are any samples available or if there’s a tour happening on embarkation day.
Of course, for the ultimate pampering experience, nothing beats treating yourself to a spa day at sea. Cruise ships often feature full-service spas offering everything from massages and facials to body wraps, hair treatments, and even medi-spa services like Botox or teeth whitening. However, cruise ship salons are notorious for their high prices. To save, look for discounts on port days, embarkation day specials, or last-minute deals.
Budget
Join a spa tour and ask for free samples of the beauty products
Mid-Range
Pack your own toiletries in a travel-size kit
Luxury
Book a day at the salon to indulge in the ultimate beauty treatment
4. Add Flowers for a Touch of Elegance
Fresh flowers aren’t allowed on cruise ships due to customs regulations, but silk flowers are a great alternative to add a touch of elegance to your cabin. Before your trip, visit a craft store and choose a bouquet that matches your personal style. Pack a collapsible vase to save space, and for an extra luxe touch, spritz the petals with a bit of essential oil—this simple trick adds a refreshing scent and makes your faux arrangement feel surprisingly real.
5. Create Your Own ‘Balcony’ Experience
One of the big luxuries of higher-end suites is an expansive balcony. Many will fit a full sun lounger or two, and some have room for an outdoor dining table or even a hot tub! While a standard balcony stateroom only has room for a pair of deck chairs – and an inside cabin doesn’t even get a view – you can still enjoy lounging outside. Look for quiet, scenic spots on the ship. Many people don’t realize that areas like the bow, stern, or promenade deck can be less crowded during certain times of the day, and they offer stunning views of the sea. In the early morning or evening, these spots are perfect for watching sunrises and sunsets in peace. Many ships have “hidden” decks that are apparent without studying the deck plans or doing a bit of exploring.
6. Take Advantage of Free Drinks and Happy Hours
A luxurious cruise experience often includes enjoying a drink before dinner. While drinks can add up, there are plenty of ways to score a few free ones! Attend events like the Captain’s Toast, art auctions, or trivia contests where you can win complimentary drinks. Keep an eye out for drink specials like the “Drink of the Day” or happy hour deals. Additionally, loyalty programs often offer perks like a free drink every day or a complimentary cocktail party.
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Cruise Line |
Events with FREE Drinks |
Drink Discounts |
Loyalty Status Drink Perks |
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Carnival |
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Holland America |
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MSC |
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Norwegian |
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Princess |
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Disney |
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7. Indulge in the Dining Experience
Main dining on a cruise is one of the highlights of the experience, and you don’t need a suite to enjoy it. Order a variety of dishes to try something new. If you’re too full for dessert, ask your waiter to prepare your dessert “to-go” so you can bring it back to your cabin to enjoy later. A dark chocolate cake enjoyed in your room while watching the sea is the epitome of a luxury cruise experience.
Budget
Enjoy a 3-course served meal for no extra charge in the Main Dining Room.
Mid-Range
Order a premium item off the MDR menu for a small upcharge.
Luxury
Book a dinner reservation at one of the onboard specialty dining restaurants.
8. Enjoy Onboard Entertainment
Cruise ships are known for their world-class entertainment, and best of all, most shows are free. To make your experience even more special, plan ahead and snag a front-row seat to your favorite show. You can also ask a crew member to take a photo of you at one of the ship’s beautiful photo spots, creating lasting memories of your cruise.
9. Personalize Your Stateroom Door
Making your inside cabin feel more like a home away from home is easy. Bring some decorations for your stateroom door—whether it’s a fun sign, a paper wreath, or a photo collage of past travels. This is a fun way to express yourself and make it easier to find your cabin on the long hallways.
10. Appreciate the Little Luxuries
The real luxury on a cruise comes from appreciating the small, everyday experiences. Take time to enjoy:
- Daily room service: Your cabin is cleaned daily, so you don’t have to worry about tidying up.
- Dining options: From casual bites to elegant dinners, all of your meals are taken care of.
- Endless entertainment: From music and comedy shows to dance performances, you can always find something to enjoy.
- Scenic views: Whether you’re watching the sunset from a quiet deck or feeling the ocean breeze, these moments make the cruise feel like a luxurious experience.
Luxury Without the Price Tag
Cruising in an inside cabin doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a luxury experience. By following these tips—whether it’s upgrading your room decor, enjoying free drinks, or taking in the entertainment—you can enjoy all the pleasures of a high-end cruise, while still keeping your budget intact. And the best part? If you do it right, you’ll have extra funds for your next cruise sooner than you think!
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