Cruising is the ultimate escape—a mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. But here’s the catch: those tempting offers for extra upgrades can quickly add up, leaving you with a much lighter wallet. The good news is, you don’t need to fall for these pricey pitfalls. Let’s dive into 8 cruise purchases you should skip to save big and cruise smarter.
The “Endless” Pit of Spending
Unlimited drink packages are one of the first upsells you’ll encounter. It sounds perfect—pay one price and drink as much as you want. However, reality quickly sets in. Most cruisers don’t drink enough to justify the cost. Between early mornings, excursions, and days when you simply don’t feel like drinking, the expense doesn’t add up.
Opt for paying per drink and enjoy complimentary beverages like coffee, tea, and water included in your fare. You’ll save money without sacrificing the fun.
Slow, Expensive, and Frustrating
We get it—staying connected while you’re out at sea sounds convenient. But cruise Wi-Fi is notoriously slow, unreliable, and overpriced. Even premium Wi-Fi plans struggle with basic tasks like checking emails or browsing social media. Instead of dealing with frustration and overspending, why not embrace a digital detox?
Disconnect for a few days, enjoy the experience, and use Wi-Fi only when it’s absolutely necessary. Trust me, you’ll survive just fine without it.
Pricier Than Your Memories
Onboard photographers are stationed at every event, promising to capture your best moments. But here’s the catch: those professional photo packages can cost hundreds of dollars, and most people only end up liking a few of the pictures. In today’s world, your smartphone camera can do the job just as well, without the hefty price tag.
Why pay extra when you can ask a fellow passenger to snap a few shots for free? It’s easy and just as effective.
Pay for Convenience, Not Value
Cruise line excursions are often marketed as convenient and stress-free, but they come at a premium. Many of these shore excursions are marked up by 50% or more compared to local tours. You’re paying for convenience, not necessarily a better experience. Instead, do a little research before your trip.
You can often find similar excursions for a fraction of the price through local operators. Plus, they may offer smaller, more personalized groups, providing a richer experience.
Relaxation at a Premium Price
Ah, the spa—a symbol of indulgence and relaxation. But onboard spas can be ridiculously overpriced, often charging double what you’d pay for similar treatments on land. Additionally, many passengers report being upsold on products and add-ons during their sessions, making the final bill even steeper.
Instead of booking an overpriced treatment onboard, consider treating yourself to a luxurious spa day in port. You’ll enjoy the same relaxation at a fraction of the cost.
Why Pay for More When You’ve Got Plenty?
Cruise ships love to promote specialty dining packages as the key to a fine-dining experience. While it’s true that these restaurants offer great food, most ships already provide plenty of delicious dining options included in your fare. From buffets to main dining rooms, there’s no shortage of quality meals without the extra charge.
Instead of buying a full specialty dining package, treat yourself to one or two specialty meals during your trip. There’s no need to overspend when you’ve already got incredible food included.
Entertainment, Not Investment
Onboard art auctions are often presented as a unique opportunity to purchase rare pieces, but they are usually overpriced. The high-energy environment, combined with complementary drinks, encourages impulsive buying. The art may not be as valuable as it’s made out to be, and you may regret your purchase later.
Enjoy the auction as entertainment, but don’t get swept up in the hype. If you’re interested in buying art, do your research beforehand and skip the impulsive buys on board.
A Surefire Way to Lose More
Prepaid gambling packages might seem like a good way to stick to your casino budget, but they often do the opposite. Having money already loaded into your casino account makes it tempting to keep playing even when you’ve already reached your limit. Instead of controlling your budget, these packages are designed to keep you playing longer—and spending more.
Set a firm gambling budget before you start, and don’t let prepaid packages trick you into spending more than you planned. Stick to cash, and when the money’s gone, it’s time to walk away.
Key Takeaway
Cruising should be about relaxation and exploration—not about overpaying for extras you don’t really need. From overpriced drink packages to unnecessary shore excursions, it’s easy to get caught up in all the tempting upsells. By skipping these 8 common cruise purchases, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest without the financial regret.
Ready to Cruise Smarter? Next time you’re on board, take a step back and think before splurging on those extras. Stay mindful of your budget, and remember that a little research and preparation can lead to a far more affordable and enjoyable cruise experience. Cruise smart and keep your wallet happy!
