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15 Sneaky Tricks Cruise Lines Use to Empty Your Wallet When Booking

Hidden cruise add-ons can drain your vacation budget.

By Amanda Teague

Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated Feb. 25, 2026

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Booking a cruise should feel like the start of a relaxing getaway, not a pop quiz in hidden fees. But between flashy "free" perks, urgent countdown timers, and tempting add-ons, it is surprisingly easy to spend hundreds or even thousands more than you planned before you ever step on the ship. Cruise lines are experts at making extras feel essential, especially when you are excited and just want everything to go smoothly.

The good news is that a little awareness goes a long way. Once you know where the upsells are hiding, you can make smarter choices, avoid common money traps, and still have an amazing vacation while finding simple ways to save money on travel without sacrificing comfort or fun.

Below, we break down the specific booking tricks cruise lines use and how to sidestep them.

"Free" drink package that isn't really free

That "free" drink package often comes with daily service charges that can add hundreds to your bill. Plus, many people simply don't drink enough to make it worthwhile.

Before accepting, estimate how many drinks you realistically have per day. Paying as you go is often cheaper for light or moderate drinkers.

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The cabin "upgrade" that's basically the same room

Cruise sites love offering "upgrades" that sound luxurious but don't change the room size at all. You may just be paying more for a slightly different location or partial view.

Compare deck plans carefully. Sometimes, a standard cabin in a good spot is the smarter deal.

"Only 2 Cabins Left at This Price!" pressure

Scarcity warnings are designed to create urgency. While certain categories do sell out, that countdown clock is often more about marketing than reality.

Take a breath and compare options before clicking "book." A few minutes of research can save you hundreds.

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Prepaid gratuities framed as a discount

Prepaying gratuities is convenient, but it's rarely a money-saving move. The total is usually the same as what you'd pay onboard (or even a bit more).

Think of it as budgeting ahead, not a special deal. If you prefer flexibility, you can typically handle tips during the cruise instead.

The specialty dining package that sounds exclusive

Specialty restaurants are wonderful, but you probably don't need them every night. Packages can make you feel like you're missing out if you skip them.

Try one or two meals instead of committing upfront. Many cruisers are perfectly happy with the included dining options.

The "best value" internet package

Wi-Fi packages are presented as essential, but not everyone needs constant connection at sea. If you mainly check email or message family occasionally, a smaller plan may be plenty.

Cruise internet is slower than at home anyway, so paying for premium speed often goes unused.

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Shore excursion FOMO

Cruise lines highlight their tours as if spots will vanish instantly.

While some do sell out, many ports are easy to explore independently or through reputable local operators for less money. Do a little research before booking everything through the ship out of fear.

The photo package presale

Those professional photos sound like treasured keepsakes, but most people end up loving only a handful.

Prepaying for a large package can mean paying for dozens of shots you never download. Wait until you see the photos, then buy only the ones you truly want.

Travel insurance that's easy (but expensive)

The cruise line's insurance option pops up right at checkout, making it very tempting. However, third-party policies often offer broader medical coverage and trip protection for a similar or lower price.

It's worth comparing plans instead of automatically clicking "add."

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The "future cruise credit" teaser

Onboard credit today in exchange for a deposit on a future cruise sounds like free money. But it locks you into sailing again with the same line, sometimes under restrictive terms.

Only put money down if you were already planning another cruise soon.

The spa package you haven't even seen yet

Booking spa packages before you board means guessing how you'll feel once the cruise starts. Your schedule may be packed with shows, ports, and relaxation by the pool.

It's usually better to wait, see the spa, and book treatments that truly fit your week.

The "upgrade bid" program

Bidding for a better cabin feels like playing a fun travel game. The catch? Minimum bids can be surprisingly high, and you lose control over cabin location.

Sometimes you'd spend less by simply choosing the exact cabin you want during the original booking.

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Early check-in and priority boarding upsells

Priority boarding sounds glamorous, but it mainly saves a bit of waiting on embarkation day.

Once you're on the ship, everyone enjoys the same cruise. If standing in line for a short while doesn't bother you, this is an easy extra to skip.

Onboard credit that leads to more spending

"Free" onboard credit feels like a bonus, but it encourages spending on marked-up extras like drinks, spa treatments, or souvenirs.

You may end up spending more just to use it. Treat it as a small perk, not a reason to loosen your vacation budget.

The "kids sail free" illusion

Kids may sail "free," but families still pay taxes, port fees, gratuities, and often higher cabin prices to fit everyone.

It's a nice discount, not a free ride. Always compare the total family cost before assuming the deal is as big as it sounds.

Bottom line

Cruise vacations can be wonderful, but the booking process is full of tempting extras that quietly inflate the final price. By slowing down, reading the fine print, and questioning whether each add-on truly fits your travel style, you can keep more money in your pocket without giving up the fun parts of cruising.

One thing many travelers do not realize is that cruise lines earn a significant portion of their profits from onboard spending, not just ticket prices. That means the real savings come from setting a budget before you book, choosing only the extras you will genuinely use, and skipping the rest so you can start traveling more instead of paying for perks you never needed.

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