Cruise Bill Surprises And How to Avoid Them This Year

7. Onboard Shopping

The onboard boutiques are filled with temptations, from duty-free jewelry and designer perfumes to cruise line-branded souvenirs. However, prices in these shops can be steep, and impulse purchases quickly add up. To avoid overspending, set a strict budget for shopping before your trip and stick to it. If you’re looking for unique keepsakes, consider shopping at local markets during shore excursions, where you’ll often find handcrafted items at more affordable prices. For luxury goods like watches or cosmetics, compare prices onboard to those at home to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Some cruise lines offer end-of-cruise sales or special promotions, so it might be worth waiting until the last few days of your trip to make purchases. By planning your shopping carefully, you can enjoy a few indulgences without exceeding your budget.