When you plan a vacation with family and friends, you really put in effort, because you want to have fun, but at the same time you need to make sure that your plans don’t burden your pocket. It is true that you have to pay if you want to enjoy top-notch services, but everywhere there are some insider tips that will help you save a few pennies.

This article looks at some ways you could save money on your next cruise vacation. Look at them.

Advance booking –

Book early, almost 6-8 months in advance. Cruise lines offer excellent deals to travelers who advance their travel dates several months as a promotional strategy. Making reservations during surf season could get you free or reduced airfare, cabin upgrades, free beverage packages and other complimentary onboard services.

Last minute reservations –

It may not be a very practical option for a family, but if you are traveling with friends, alone or as a couple, you can book, pack and go. Last minute reservations, almost 3 to 6 weeks before the departure date, can help save a few hundred dollars. The only downside to this tactic is that you have to make do with what you’re given (for example, rooms without balconies); No choice.

Travel out of season –

Travelers can get a great deal on a cruise vacation if they travel in the off-season. Prices drop even more during hurricane season. One advantage of traveling in the off-season is that you can escape the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed and quiet vacation.

Get sales and discounts –

The travel industry, when it comes to cruise vacations, has a plethora of deals and promotions. To get the latest updates, you can sign up with a travel agent who specializes in cruise and vacation travel or sign up for newsletters. Such sales do not offer savings above 50%. This is a tip to know which offer can be trusted and which one is not.

shorter cruise –

Can’t afford a week-long cruise vacation? You can always book yourself for a shorter one. Given the demand for shorter cruises and more affordable fares, many cruise lines offer cruise voyages closer to home. It becomes cheaper as you save a significant portion on airfare.

book on board –

If you are a travel buff and plan to take more cruise vacations in the future, you can book onboard. Not exactly a reservation, but a credit that can be applied to any future reservations you make for a cruise vacation. Advantages include flexibility in choice of travel date, itineraries and cruise and reduced deposit amount. The deposit amount is refundable.

Savings on board –

Other tips you can use to save onboard your cruise vacation include the following:

· Instead of booking all-inclusive air packages, make your own airfare and tour reservations.

Pack light to reduce costs spent on baggage fees.

· Advance purchase of meals and spa packages.

· Try to avoid buying beverage packages; If the cruise line allows it, you may bring your own bottle of wine or champagne.

· Wash your own clothes.