SailingGrace

First, when I book I compare sites including GVR. I book with the least expensive/or best OBC.

I then keep an eye out for price drops if the cruise line will allow OBC.

Also, I pay with credit or debit card and pay in full at statement close to avoid finance charges.

Next, I research transportation to/from the departure port. Those $300 sailings can add up to a thousand bucks if the airfare isn't good. Once I get a going price, I watch for anyone lower and grab it when it dips.

The day of or the day before my flight I get a mani/pedi; facial; and hair done.

I also look for pre-cruise hotel that provides complimentary shuttle from airport to cruiseport.

When checking in, I place cash on my account...and just enough to cover gratuities. Anything else that I want...I have to want it bad enough and long enough to walk to my stateroom, get cash, and take it to the desk to add it. Still want it? I get it. (and I put a little extra on there)

No casinos/bingo/alcohol/coffee/soda pop/specialty dining/etc.

Before the cruise I research shore excursions and usually book with local vendors....doing the EXACT same thing the cruise line folks are doing who paid twice as much.

I do splurge for laundry.

And I have a wonderful time on my cruises. And the last night...when the refund check is slid under my door....Wow! What a way to end a cruise- them paying me.

When I booked a few months ago the military rate was no better than Early Saver. So I booked Early Saver- - on the chance the rates may go down.

Today the rates went down. But due to Carnival not disclosing categories online anymore, I called. Was told it was 'my' category. So after I hung up...I called again- just to be sure. Was told it was 'my' category.

After I gave him all my booking info so he could pull me up, he saw the price difference and said I could submit a claim form....but wait! The advertised military rate is 40 dollars less per person. So I sent my DD214 via email.

Point is, using the Early Saver allowed me to get some On Board Credit...where if I had used the military rate in my original booking- I wouldn't have been able to get it.

Wow, thanks for the post! From what I read:

"6 days got $50, up to 14 got $100, and over 14 got $250." says Debbie.

I'll keep this in mind when I go to book my next cruise. Would be nice if my cruise line would do something like this. I sail Carnival because they have always been the least expenisve.

Get to know your local or nearest ITT office on base. Usually MWR is contacted about promotions....like the free Disney tickets, Busch Gardens/Sea World, etc.

Some of the bases have websites, too. The one I use the most is Victory Travel at Ft. Jackson, SC. You can click around to see what's going on.

Military dress uniforms are appropriate for formal nights.