By now, you’ve heard that travel costs are skyrocketing, and that’s just the base fare before you consider all the extras. Traveling to get to your ship and return home after your cruise is a necessary expense – a “need” versus a “want” when compared to a spa treatment or wine package. But that doesn’t mean you have to overspend on it.
From airfare advice to hotel tips, try some of these tips to cut your cruise travel costs.
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Fly on the day of your cruise
Although this goes against my usual advice, which is fly in at least a day earlyIf you’re really on a tight budget, it can help to save some money on your hotel before you go on your cruise. Just make sure you book your flight as early as possible on the day of your cruise and that you have travel insurance in case something goes wrong with your flight and you can’t get to your ship.
Book a hotel with amenities
If you decide to arrive in town a day or two early, choose a hotel that offers free or discounted parking if you drive or a free shuttle to the cruise port and airport if you fly. This will save you a lot of money on parking, taxis, and ride-hailing service.
Also ask about free breakfastthis can cut your costs even further. Some hotels will offer free meals if you have elite status, although free breakfast isn’t a perk for everyone.
Fly with discount airlines
If you’re looking to save a little money, try one low cost airline. A lot of travelers stay away from them, but if you’re simply looking for the lowest price without a lot of frills, they’re the way to go. Know what the airline will and won’t offer, so you’re ready to settle into whatever seat you’re assigned and bring your own snacks. You will also want to light package to avoid baggage fees and other fees.
Take advantage of points and miles
If you’re a frequent flyer points and miles earner, check your account to see if you have enough money to redeem your flights and hotels. Even if you don’t have enough money in the bank to pay the full amount, some booking portal will allow you to apply what you have, thereby reducing the final price you have to pay out of pocket.
Drive (almost) to your dock
If you live near a cruise port, you can avoid paying expensive parking fees at the marina by finding cheaper off-port parking.
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Garages in the area will often offer lower rates if you book in advance during your trip before arriving. Many offer shuttle services to the port. Even if you have to lose one Uber or Lyft The rest of the way, the cost is almost guaranteed to be significantly lower than what you’d pay to park at the station.
Use credit card perks
Don’t forget to check your credit cards to see where else you can get free or discounted travel arrangements before or after your cruise. There is a co-owned brand hotel card? See if you have awards night that you can use or take advantage of annual hotel or travel credits offered by certain cards if you book through their portal.
If you need a shuttle to or from the airport or cruise port, several American Express provide Uber monthly credit that you can use to offset costs.
Bottom line
Just because getting to the port of embarkation isn’t free doesn’t mean it has to cost you.
If you plan ahead, aren’t afraid to splurge, and know how to use your points, miles, and credit card benefits, you can save quite a bit — and use it to take advantage of your savings. Enjoy more fun on your cruise vacation.
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