Whether you’ve booked an inexpensive 3-day getaway to the Bahamas or you are taking your dream cruise to Alaska, why spend more than you have to? Here are four ways to save money that may not have crossed your mind:
1. Book a cheaper room and ask for an upgrade. When booking a stateroom, book the lowest category with which you would be satisfied. When you arrive, ask if any upgrades are available. They may not be free, but if you can snag one it’s usually at a much reduced cost. When I took a Disney cruise up the California coast, it would have cost $1,000 to upgrade from an ocean view stateroom to a verandah stateroom at the time of booking. On embarkation day, the same upgrade was offered for $200.
2. BYOB or W or L or S…Most cruise lines allow you to bring at least some alcohol onboard and, no, you don’t have to smuggle it in shampoo bottles! Some cruise lines allow you to bring wine or champagne while others, like Disney, allow you to bring anything you like. You can also bring soda on-board. Don’t waste money at the bars, just bring your own!
3. Bring your own souvenirs. When you take a Disney cruise, bring on board a plain t-shirt or pillowcase for each member of your family. Drop these off at Guest Services to have all the characters sign your item. It will “magically” appear back in your room! Much cheaper than buying a mass-market shirt in the gift shop!
4. Buy gift cards at Target or Sam’s. Paying for your cruise with gift cards can be a huge savings. If you buy gift cards at Target and use your Red Card, you automatically save 5%. At Sam’s, discounted gift cards are available from a variety of vendors. Discounts vary, but they are always less than face value.
These are just four ways to get the most out of your vacation budget. Your friendly, neighborhood travel agent (hey, that’s me!), will always make sure you are getting the best value for your money!
For a free quote on your next cruise or Disney vacation? Click Request A Quote and my team and I will be happy to provide you a free no obligation quote.
Christine Hardenberger MMP Travel