Cruises are extremely relaxing, but they can also be very expensive. Fortunately, by using both online and offline resources, you can find deals that make cruising possible, even if you're on a shoestring budget. How can you make sure you find a great cruise without spending tons of money? Here are some simple tips for finding the best cruisebooking deals.

 

Look for cruise deals online

 

The Internet is a plethora of travel resources. You can find sites specifically for cruises, sites that offer cruise packages (including airfare, hotels, and onboard services), and many more.

 

All the major cruise companies have official websites, which are good places to start. Often when there are no middlemen, you can get the lowest fare for your cruise. However, this is not always the case, so shop around. Travel-based websites might offer even better deals than what you'll get directly from the cruise company.

 

Work with a travel agent to find cruise deals

 

While the Internet is a great place to find travel deals, sometimes you can still get the best deals by booking your cruise vacation with a travel agent. Travel agents have offices all over the country, and there are likely several options in your area. Request sample prices and compare prices. Travel agents get better prices if they sell a certain number of tickets and pass those savings on to you.

 

Find a cruise package

 

Sometimes a company may offer a cruisebooking package that is more expensive than the deals you'll find elsewhere. But when you compare all the plugins that are included in the package, it might be the cheapest option. Look for a package deal that includes your flight to the port, hotel accommodation around the dates of your departure and return, a rental car if necessary, meals on the ship, activities, and more. A cruise that initially seems like the cheapest option can be expensive when you start adding up the other costs. Packages are usually the best deals.

 

Consider an off-season cruise

 

All cruise destinations have a low season. The weather may not be so great and you may not have as many options for activities, but overall, you can save hundreds of dollars by traveling in the off-season. There are some locations where off-season cruises are not available. For example, Alaska's weather is too stormy for winter cruises. If this is the case at your location of choice, book travel time at the beginning or end of the season, when fares will be slightly lower.

 

Ask about cruise discounts

 

Sometimes getting a better price is just a matter of asking. Whether you're booking your trip through a travel agent, working with a third-party site online, or buying your ticket directly from the cruise company, there are always hidden discounts if you know where to look. Please note that everything is negotiable. If you upgrade your stateroom options, are you willing to offer free access to dance classes while on the ship? If you pay for it in advance, can you get a discount on trips to the ports? Think outside the box and don't be afraid to ask.

 

Choose an affordable cruise cabin

 

Cruise ship cabins generally fall within three price ranges. The most expensive cabins will be on the upper deck, with windows and maybe even a balcony. Suites are also in this price range. The second price range has rooms on the lower decks. These also have windows, but usually do not have a private outdoor space. To save the most money, book a room on the third price level inside the ship. These rooms are usually smaller and will not have a window. But on a cruise, you won't be spending much time in your room anyway.

 

Avoid hidden costs of cruises

 

Lastly, to get the best cruise deals, do your research and find out any potential hidden costs. For example, on some cruises, you'll pay more to have meals included, but you'll still have to pay for drinks. That doesn't just mean alcoholic beverages. If you want a soft drink or even water, you can pay a few dollars for each glass.