Think your cruise fare covers everything? Think again. Cruise lines are masters at getting you to spend more—a lot more—once you’re on board. From drink packages to tempting upsells and surprise fees, they’ve got a ton of sneaky ways to open your wallet without you even realizing it.
Below, I’m revealing clever tricks cruise lines use to get you to spend more money—and how you can avoid falling for them. If you want to cruise smarter and keep more cash in your pocket, you need to read this.
How Cruise Lines Trick You Into Spending More Money
Priority Boarding Packages
Let’s talk about priority boarding packages—one of the newer ways cruise lines get you to spend more before you even set foot on the ship.
They’ve taken a page right out of Disney’s playbook: pay more to skip the lines. And let’s be honest—no one likes waiting around at the terminal. That’s what makes these packages so tempting.
For example, Carnival offers something called Faster to the Fun. It gives you perks like priority check-in, early access to your room, faster luggage delivery, priority dining reservations, and even early disembarkation. Sounds great, right?
But here’s the catch—it comes with a price tag. And when you add it on top of everything else you’re already paying for, it can really eat into your vacation budget.
So before you hit that “add to cart” button, ask yourself: is skipping the line really worth the extra cost?
Thermal Spa Package
Another sneaky way cruise lines get you to spend more? The thermal spa package.
They know the main pool and hot tubs can get crowded—especially with kids running around. So, they offer a peaceful alternative… for a price.
With a thermal spa package, you get access to the adults-only spa area, which usually includes things like steam rooms, heated loungers, therapy showers, salt rooms, and hot tubs that aren’t packed with splashing kids. You can buy a day pass or go all-in with unlimited access for the entire cruise.
And honestly? It’s hard to resist. Cruise lines are smart—they know by day two, you’ll be craving some peace and quiet. So they charge extra for that luxury escape… and chances are, you’ll pay it.
Double Tip
Most cruise lines automatically add a service charge or gratuity to your bill—especially at bars, restaurants, and the spa. But a lot of people don’t realize it, and end up tipping again on top of that without even noticing.
If you’re not checking your receipts closely, you could be tipping twice—every single time. It’s an easy way to overspend without meaning to.
So just a heads-up: always scan your bill before adding an extra tip. You might already be covered.
Limited Time Sale
Another sneaky tactic? Limited-time sales in the cruise gift shops.
Cruise lines know you’re a captive audience—you’re only on the ship for a few days, and they’re the only shopping option around. So they create a sense of urgency with flash sales and “one-day-only” deals.
You’ll see things like $10 souvenir sales or sidewalk sales where everything feels like a bargain—but only for today. It’s designed to make you feel like you have to buy now or miss out forever.
And that urgency? It works. You end up buying more than you planned—just because it felt like a deal.
Drink Packages
Beverage packages are one of the biggest ways cruise lines get you to spend more money. They often start upselling with discounts before you even board the ship. Then once you’re onboard, the staff keeps tempting you to buy one. And lately, they’ve gotten really clever at making it hard to resist.
Take Royal Caribbean, for example. Some of their ships feature robot bartenders—yes, actual robots that mix your drinks while putting on a full show. It’s flashy, it’s fun, and it totally makes you want to keep ordering just to watch the robot work its magic.
And that’s the trick. It’s not just about the drinks anymore—it’s about the whole experience. Suddenly, the beverage package seems like a good buy.
So if you’re not careful, what seems like a fun novelty can easily turn into yet another way cruise lines get you to spend more.
Spa Upgrades
Let’s talk about spa upgrades—another clever way cruise lines get you to spend more while you’re onboard.
You might walk in just wanting a simple massage, but once you’re there, the upselling begins. Suddenly they’re offering you scented candles, premium lotions, facials, and even Botox treatments. Yes, Botox—on a cruise ship!
They know you’re on vacation, you’re feeling relaxed, and you want to treat yourself. That’s exactly when you’re most likely to say “why not?”—and just like that, your $100 massage turns into a $400 spa visit.
So if you head to the spa, just be prepared—they’ll definitely try to upgrade your experience… and your bill.
Duty Free
Another way cruise lines tempt you to spend more? Duty-free shopping.
They love to highlight that everything onboard is tax-free—no sales tax, no duties. Sounds like a great deal, right?
But here’s the catch: they’re not pushing everyday items. They want you to splurge on big-ticket purchases—like luxury watches, high-end jewelry, and designer handbags. The “duty-free” label makes it feel like you’re getting a bargain, even if you’re still paying a premium price.
It’s all about making those luxury splurges feel justifiable—when really, you might not have even considered buying that luxury watch if you weren’t in vacation mode.
Room Service Fees
Here’s a sneaky change a lot of people don’t notice: room service fees.
Cruise lines used to offer room service for free—but not anymore. Now, many of them charge either a flat service fee or make you pay per item.
It might seem small, but those late-night snacks or breakfast-in-bed can really add up. It’s just another way cruise lines quietly get you to spend more—without you realizing it until you get the bill.
So before you hit that “order now” button, double-check the fine print. That midnight pizza might cost more than you think!
Specialty Dining
Let’s talk about specialty dining—one of the sneakiest ways cruise lines get you to spend more money.
At first glance, it seems like a great deal. Take Princess Cruises, for example—they charge about $40 for a steak and lobster dinner at their specialty restaurant. Sounds like a steal, right?
Some cruise lines even partner with celebrity chefs to offer gourmet menus that would cost a lot more on land. The catch? You’ve already paid for your meals as part of your cruise fare, so why pay extra for food that’s technically included?
And they don’t make it easy to say no. Waiters often come by your buffet table just to pitch the specialty dining packages!
Corkage Fee
Here’s a little-known way cruise lines get you to spend more: the corkage fee.
Many cruise lines let you bring one bottle of wine or champagne onboard when you embark. Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch—if you bring that bottle into the dining room, they’ll charge you a corkage fee to open it.
Want to avoid that extra charge? Enjoy your wine or champagne in your stateroom instead. It’s a simple trick to save some money while still enjoying your favorite drink.
Specialty Coffee
Cruise lines love tempting you with specialty coffee—but here’s the catch—they’re not cheap. In fact, prices are often similar to what you’d pay at Starbucks.
Some ships even offer non-alcoholic beverage packages that include unlimited specialty coffees, sodas, and smoothies. But honestly, why pay extra for coffee when basic coffee is free everywhere on the ship?
And here’s a simple hack: you can make your own iced coffee by just grabbing a cup of free coffee and adding ice. It’s an easy way to enjoy your favorite drink without spending extra cash.
Cruise Essentials to Buy Before Your Cruise
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Travel Must-Haves
Passport neck wallet – Keeps your passport and travel documents secure and accessible. It also has RFID protection.
Cruise lanyards – A super convenient way to keep your cruise card within easy reach. No more digging through your bag every time you need it! I recommend getting one lanyard per person in your group and choosing different colors so it’s easy to tell them apart.
Anti-theft crossbody bag with anti-pickpocket clip – Genius anti-theft clip and versatile enough for both port days and evenings in the dining room.
Anti-theft crossbody bag with RFID – Padded shoulder straps with RFID lining to safeguard against identity theft.
Insulated water bottles –I don’t like spending money on bottled water, and I always want fresh water in my cabin. I’ll fill my bottle at the buffet or ask my server at dinner, then bring it back so I have water at night. This is my go-to water bottle—I prefer ones without straws since they’re much easier to wash in the cabin sink.
Pashmina – This multi-purpose wrap always earns its spot in my luggage. Use it as an evening wrap, a lightweight plane blanket, or a cover-up when visiting places of worship that require modest dress. I never cruise without one—you’ll be surprised how often it comes in handy.
Cruise Planning Essentials
Day Passes to Resorts– Booking private beach resort access in advance guarantees a comfortable beach experience at the cruise port.
Travel Insurance with CFAR Coverage– CFAR travel insurance gives you flexibility to cancel your cruise for any reason and recover part of your costs if plans change.
Last Minute Cruise Deals– Search for last minute cruise deals.
Cabin Comfort & Organization
Non-surge Cruise power strip– Cabins never have enough outlets (check cruise line rules first).
Magnetic hooks – Super-strong magnetic hooks that attach easily to your cabin walls. They’re perfect for hanging hats, cruise lanyards, goggles, swimsuits, and towels. I personally use the 85+ lb hooks—they’re incredibly sturdy and can even hold backpacks!
Small portable fan – Improves airflow and keeps Inside Cabins from feeling stuffy.
Motion sensor night light – Perfect for Inside Cabins, for when you get up at night to use the bathroom. It also has a magnetic base, so you can easily attach it to your cabin walls.
Toiletries & Laundry
Hanging toiletry bag – Keeps your essentials neat and accessible.
Fabric freshener spray – Fights wrinkles and refreshes clothes between wears.
Travel-size detergent – Handy for washing swimsuits, underwear, and quick-dry clothing in the sink.
TSA-approved travel containers – Easy to pack your lotions, creams, and other liquids without worrying about TSA rules.
Health & Wellness
Anti-seasickness medicine – My go-to meds for anti-seasickness. I take one in the morning on sea days (bring chewables for kids).
Acupressure bands – A natural alternative for seasickness relief. I use this with the anti-seasickness meds.
Packing & Storage
Cruise travel planners– Check out my travel planners, they help you stay organized before and during your trip.
Packing cubes – I never travel without packing cubes! They make packing and unpacking so easy—you can simply slip the entire cube into the cabin closet or drawer. I like to assign a different color to each person so there’s no mix-up.
Foldable duffel bag – I always pack a foldable duffel bag in case I bring home too many souvenirs or do some extra shopping. It doubles as an extra carry-on and barely takes up any luggage space.
Foldable shopping bag – Perfect for shopping at cruise ports, these bags fold up small enough to keep in your purse. I always carry one with me—you never know when you’ll need it! Plus, many countries charge a fee for shopping bags, and I’d much rather use my own than pay extra.
Foldable backpack – Perfect for cruise port days when you need an extra bag. I love that these backpacks are lightweight and fold down small, so you can toss one in your luggage without taking up much space.
Travel luggage scale – I always keep one in my suitcase so I can weigh my bags before heading to the airport. It’s a simple way to avoid overweight baggage fees.
Apple AirTags – I pop one into each of my bags so I can track my luggage for peace of mind. They’re especially helpful if you have a short layover and worry about your suitcase getting left behind.
Beach Essentials
Towel Clips – A simple must-have for pool and beach days! They keep your towels from slipping off lounge chairs, and I never cruise without brining a few in my luggage.
Waterproof phone pouch – Protect your phone from water and sand while still being able to snap photos. I always bring one when cruising the Caribbean or Mediterranean—it’s a lifesaver for beach and pool days.
Striped beach bag with zipper – You’ll need a beach bag with zipper to keep your things secure. I like this one because it’s stylish, has a water bottle holder, keeps belongings secure and has a lot of pockets.
Kid-Friendly Cruise Essentials
Magnetic toys – Cabin walls are magnetic, making these toys perfect for fun, mess-free entertainment. They keep kids busy when you’re in the cabin, especially since cruise TV options for kids can be limited. It’s always best to bring your own toys.
Collapsible beach buckets and toys – You’ll definitely want to bring beach toys if you’re going on a Caribbean cruise! This collapsible set includes foldable buckets, shovels, and sandcastle molds, all packed neatly in one bag. They’re easy to fit in your suitcase without taking up much space.
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