September 2025
I remember getting an unpleasant surprise on a cruise once. Trying to be financially responsible and avoid credit card debt, I used my debit card for stateroom charges. Big mistake. I ended up getting hit with international transaction fees. Why? Depending on your bank, card and how the merchant processes the charge, cruise and international travel purchases can trigger foreign transaction fees. I learned that one the expensive way.
That experience changed how I handle travel expenses. Now, instead of automatically reaching for my debit card, I use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees and make sure I pay the balance off. It gives me the convenience and added protections of a credit card without tacking an extra international fee onto every eligible purchase. It was a simple change, but it made me realize just how much I had been mishandling my travel expenses. And I know I’m not alone. Plenty of people make this and other accidental money mistakes when they travel. I help clients plan before they book --> Cruise Planning
It’s easy to get caught up in the fun stuff when planning a cruise, like picking excursions, packing (well, maybe not the packing), and dreaming about that first sail-away drink on the lido deck. But one thing that often gets overlooked is the not-so-fun money stuff. From choosing a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to shopping in port, using ATMs, and paying for things on the ship, a little planning can save you from unnecessary fees, potential fraud, and a whole lot of financial stress.
The question I get most often. - "Is the drink package worth the cost?"
The best answer is, it depends on the cruise line, the cost of individual drinks and how much you actually drink. For a lot of people, they don't pay off. It depends entirely on how you actually drink, not how you picture yourself drinking on vacation. I'll do the math with you honestly. The break-even point on most cruise lines is approximately 6-7 drinks a day.
On luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea, drinks are already in the fare - here's how the luxury lines compare.
How Much Money Should You Bring on a Cruise?
One of the best parts about cruising is that most of your expenses are taken care of upfront. Cruise ships run on a cashless system, so anything you buy onboard—like drinks, excursions, specialty dining, or photos—is charged to your cruise account, which is linked to your credit card.
Still, you’ll want to bring some cash for when you’re off the ship. It’s hard to say exactly how much you’ll need since everyone spends differently, but here are a few things to consider when deciding how much to bring:
Tipping: Gratuities are usually prepaid or automatically added to your account, but it’s nice to have cash on hand for extra tips—especially for things like room service or exceptional service from crew members. I always bring a stack of singles and even some two-dollar bills (which I have to order ahead from my bank). Cruise Ship Tipping Explained
Local purchases: While many shops and vendors in port take credit cards, smaller spots—like taxis, street markets, or beach vendors—might only accept cash. Even if they take cards, paying with cash can sometimes give you more room to negotiate.
Everyday expenses: Whether it’s a drink at a beach bar, a snack from a food stall, or a handmade souvenir, having a bit of cash makes life easier. Most popular cruise destinations accept US dollars, but heads up: in the Caribbean, bills that are torn, marked, or worn might not be accepted.
Emergency stash: It’s always smart to carry some backup cash in case your cards get lost, stolen, or maxed out.
A good ballpark is $50 to $150 per port, depending on what you’ve got planned. If your excursions are already booked through the cruise line or a trusted provider, that cuts down your need for cash. Just don’t forget to bring a little extra for tipping your tour guides—even on prepaid excursions, it’s standard to tip. Shore Excursions & Airport Transfers
Insurance or Not: Speaking of backup plans — cash covers you if a card gets lost or maxed out, but it won't cover you if something bigger goes wrong, like a medical issue onboard or a missed ship. That's a different kind of financial protection, and it's worth understanding before you sail. Is travel insurance actually worth it?
If you're sailing from Galveston, here is what that drive and parking actually costs - Galveston Cruises for DFW Travelers
Robert Cook — Travel Advisor Serving Keller, North Fort Worth & the DFW Metroplex
Call or text: 682-337-9466
Email: travelbycook@gmail.com
CLIA Certified Cruise Counselor | IATA | KHM Travel Group | Florida Seller of Travel ST37113