The Secret Cruise Hacks Only Experienced Travelers Know

Whether it’s your first cruise or your tenth, there are always ways to make the experience better. Seasoned cruisers know the best tricks for saving money, skipping lines, and getting extra perks—without relying on luck or expensive upgrades. Want to cruise like a pro? Here are the secret cruise hacks only experienced travelers know.

1. Book a “Guaranteed” Cabin for a Potential Upgrade

If you don’t mind a little mystery, booking a “guaranteed” cabin can save you money and might even land you an upgrade. Instead of picking a specific stateroom, you choose a category (inside, ocean view, balcony), and the cruise line assigns your cabin later. While there’s no guarantee of an upgrade, if higher-category rooms remain unsold, you might get bumped up for free.

2. Bring Your Own Wine (Legally!)

Most cruise lines allow you to bring a bottle or two of wine or champagne on board—saving you a fortune on bar prices. Just check your cruise line’s policy beforehand. Some lines charge a small corkage fee if you drink it in a restaurant, but it’s still much cheaper than buying drinks at the bar.

3. Skip the Buffet on Embarkation Day

On the first day, everyone rushes to the buffet, making it crowded and overwhelming. Experienced cruisers know to head to a quieter restaurant instead. Many ships have smaller, lesser-known dining options open on embarkation day that are far less hectic and offer better service.

4. Use a Magnetic Hook to Organize Your Cabin

Since cruise cabins have metal walls, bringing a few magnetic hooks or clips can help keep things organized. Use them to hang hats, jackets, or even your daily schedule to avoid clutter.

5. Get Free Room Service for Breakfast

Many cruise lines offer complimentary room service breakfast, but most people don’t take advantage of it. Instead of fighting the buffet crowds in the morning, order a quiet breakfast in your cabin and enjoy your coffee with a view from your balcony.

6. Pack a Power Strip (But a Cruise-Approved One)

Most cruise cabins have limited electrical outlets, and with today’s need for charging phones, cameras, and tablets, that’s a problem. A cruise-approved power strip (one without surge protection) can keep everything charged without violating ship safety rules.

7. Avoid Overpaying for Shore Excursions

While cruise-line excursions are convenient, they’re often overpriced. Booking directly with local tour companies can save you 30-50% and sometimes even provide a more personalized experience. Just make sure you return to the ship on time—if you book outside the cruise line, the ship won’t wait for you.

8. Don’t Buy the Wi-Fi Until You’re On Board

Many cruise lines offer discounts on Wi-Fi packages on the first day of sailing. Instead of purchasing it in advance at full price, wait until you board and check for special offers.

9. Use the Spa for Free

While cruise spas charge high prices for treatments, many ships have a free thermal suite, sauna, or relaxation area that most passengers don’t know about. Instead of paying for a massage, check if your ship has complimentary spa facilities.

10. Eat at Specialty Restaurants on the First or Last Night

Most people flock to specialty dining mid-cruise, making reservations harder to get. The trick? Book the first or last night—these nights often have discounts or extra perks like free wine.

11. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated on a cruise is essential, but bottled water on board can be pricey. Most ships have free filtered water stations, so bringing a refillable bottle helps you avoid unnecessary expenses.

12. Skip the Elevators on Busy Days

On embarkation, disembarkation, and after shows, elevators are packed. Experienced cruisers take the stairs instead—it's faster, avoids the crowds, and helps burn off those buffet meals.

13. Use Your Phone’s Airplane Mode to Avoid Surprise Charges

Cellular roaming charges at sea can be insanely expensive. Always switch your phone to airplane mode before you sail to avoid accidental international charges. If you need internet, use onboard Wi-Fi or buy a local SIM card at port.

14. Take Advantage of Free Laundry Perks

Some cruise lines offer free laundry services to loyalty program members. If you’ve cruised with a line before, check to see if you qualify—this can help you pack lighter and save on baggage fees.

15. Grab a Free Drink at Art Auctions & Events

Some ship events, like art auctions, jewelry presentations, and captain’s cocktail nights, offer complimentary drinks. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, attending one can be a sneaky way to enjoy a free glass of champagne.

16. Claim Price Drops After Booking

Many cruise lines allow you to rebook at a lower price if your fare drops before final payment. Keep an eye on rates and call the cruise line (or your travel agent) to get the better deal.

17. Embark Late to Avoid the Crowds

Most passengers rush to board early, making embarkation lines long and chaotic. Instead, arrive in the final boarding hours—you’ll breeze through check-in, avoid the crowds, and still have plenty of time to settle in before departure.

Cruise Smarter, Travel Better

These cruise hacks can save you money, time, and stress, making your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing these insider tips will help you cruise like a pro—without paying extra for the privilege.