How to Go on a Cruise With Kids for Cheap

A cruise is a wonderful family vacation idea. It can, however, get pricey really fast. If you're on a tight budget and want to take your kids on a cruise for cheap, there are a bunch of great ways to nickel and dime your way to an awesome an affordable vacation. Most of the savings is all in the planning and preparation, and it is well worth the effort.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan ahead to get the best deal if you are traveling with children. Though last minute cruise deals are great for couples and singles, it's not likely that you'll find a kid-friendly cruise that meets your criteria and offers you enough value to make the savings worth it. In fact, many cruise lines are now offering great deals on packages for those who plan months in advance. Book early and you can save big.

2. Do your homework, or hire a travel agent to do it for you. Every cruise line offers different packages and different prices. It can be tricky to figure out the specific amenities for each line and nail down a rate, but it's doable. Go to cruise review websites and travel websites well in advance to get a feel for the current market.

3. Never pay the brochure price. Cruises rates are always negotiable, and it's in your best interest not to settle for the mark-up. When a cruise is "all-inclusive," this never actually means that the price you see is the price you'll pay. Contact the cruise line or your travel agent to find out precisely what is covered and what isn't. Things like stroller rentals, meals, cocktails, activities, and shore excursions will cost you an arm and a leg if you don't know what you're getting into.

4. Look into the specifics when it comes to children's programs. Find out how they divide age groups, the ratio of counselors to children, and what day and evening activities are offered to keep your kids safe and happy. Disney, NCL, and Princess cruise lines all offer great children's programs on most or all of their ships.

5. Book your own shore excursions in ports of call with independent operators. Be sure to research the options before you go and book these excursions in advance of the cruise. Bring cash and foreign currency if you're going it alone, or check with your cruise line about currency exchange and ATM's.

6. Opt for a homeport cruise. You and your family can cruise down to various United States ports of call. This is a great way to save on airfare, passports, and even shore excursions and is also great for families with small children and first-time cruisers.

Tips & Warnings

• Save money by packing carefully. Think multi-functional when packing for the trip to save space. Small items that you may not think to bring, like an alarm clock, enough diapers, medications, extra batteries, and the like can rack up a big bill with the cruise line if you have to purchase it onboard. Make a packing list for the family and a separate one for each family member to help make sure that nothing vital gets left behind.

Resources

• Use Cruise Critic to help plan your cruise.