How to Choose a Refreshing Cruise on a Budget

We've all dreamed about it, getting away from it all on one of those cool cruises. Maybe you've got your first actual two week vacation coming up, and want to do something to celebrate. Or maybe you just got married and want to get away from it all before you both have to go back to work and the realities of life. Whatever the reason, a cruise can be a great way to relax and come back refreshed. However, the key is to choose one in such a way that you don't break the bank.

So where is the best place to begin planning your dream cruise? The first thing you need to take into account is your budget. Whatever you do, do not go into serious debt to go on a cruise. A few days of pleasure and relaxation that will amount to months of money worries is not worth it. Here are some ideas for keeping the costs reasonable when you are getting ready to plan your cruise.

One of the most important things to remember when planning a cruise is that there are peak dates and off-peak dates, choosing one of the peak dates when everyone wants to go on a cruise is going to drive the cost up. Remember, you're going to experience the same things on off-peak dates that you would on peak dates, the only difference is going to be a lower price and possibly less people which is a good thing because who wants to be on an overbooked cruise? If you ask your travel agent she can tell you what off-peak dates are, as well as, the lowest season prices. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you can keep your dates flexible, then sometimes if a cruise doesn't fill up the cruise line puts a major discount on the last few tickets which can save you a ton of money. But even if your dates are set in stone you can still get a deal if you find out the off-peak dates.

Believe it not where you go on your cruise can actually save you money. Going to a location that is a place that everyone wants to go to is actually going to be cheaper than somewhere that not that many people go. The idea behind this is that if you choose a spot that everyone wants, the cruise line has an easier time filling spots and so can afford to discount some tickets. However, if you choose a spot that not many want to visit, this can raise the price because it is less likely that the cruiseline will be able to fill the ship to capacity.

Ever hear of those cruises that don't stop at any of the fancy ports, you know the ones I mean, the cruises to nowhere? Well those actually cost less than the cruises that make stops. So if you don't care about getting off the ship but just want to stay deckside with a good book and enjoy the sunshine then choose one of these cruises because they cost less than the ones that make port stops.

Another good cost saving tip is to bring your own toiletries because they may not be provided by the cruiseline and if you have to buy them in the gift shop, you're going to wish you had brought your own. Most stores have trial size or travel sizes of these items and getting a few will save you a ton of money!

Keeping these ideas in mind when planning a cruise will not only save you money, but your peace of mind. It is not worth it to go into serious debt for a few days of fun in the sun.