5 ways to bag free swag

Oct 17, 2021

Special Occasions

If you are celebrating a special occasion be sure to let your cruiseline know in advance. Newlyweds may be invited to a cocktail hour with fellow honeymooners. If you travel on your birthday you might find that you get a surprise gift, such as gift card for spa treatments, an appreciation drink, or even a cake at the restaurant.

Celebrating as a large group? Let your travel agent know as group bookings sometimes have access to additional amenities. Ask your travel agent what options are available to you and your group.

Play at the Casino

Okay so first off, nothing at the Casino is ever free, that is why they say "the house always wins" after all. However, if you plan to play at the Casino anyway then you may find a few freebie's coming your way.

If you are playing at the slots, be sure to enter your key/pass into the machine to start racking up points. You can find yourself automatically entered into prize drawings, eligible for free drinks (while playing), or presented with a swag bag which can include lanyards, baseball caps, t-shirts, and other goodies.

Loyalty Programs

Most cruiselines auto enroll you into their loyalty program (don't worry it's completely free). At their core, all these programs are the same; the more you cruise, the higher your membership level. The higher your membership level the greater the rewards.

Unlike hotel and airline loyalty programs, points don't expire, and you don't need to complete a certain amount of cruises, or nights to maintain your current membership level. Once you "level up" you stay that level for life.

Loyalty programs do differ between the companies but you can typically expect complimentary drinks, laundry, casino free plays, cocktail parties, upgrades, and more. Check with your cruise lines individual program for specific details. Note that some items need to be picked up or claimed, so I recommend checking which benefits your membership level provides before you board.

Free Food

So we all know meals are included in the cruise, but did you know that you aren't limited to one dish from each course? Want the shrimp cocktail AND the crab cakes? Let your waiter know, he or she will be happy to oblige. You can even ask for items that aren't on the menu. Your waiter does need to check with the chef so don't get your hopes too high on this one, but they will definitely accommodate your request if they can.

Even specialty dining options can include additional courses, be sure to ask your server. On a recent cruise I was surprised to find that I was allowed to choose up to 2 starters. Furthermore, since I had opted for the wine pairing, I even got an extra glass of wine thrown in!

Prize Drawings

On embarkation day you might see a Spa Tour on your cruise planner. This tour usually lasts 20-30 mins, and if you stay until the end you may find that you can be entered into a prize drawing. The caveat here is that the drawing typically takes place after a 20 minute presentation and sales pitch, and you must be present to claim a prize.

Prizes are usually very generous, ranging from 10 minute "taster" sessions, gift cards, swag bags, and even full length treatments for free.

Similar prize drawings can be found in the retail stores, particularly the jewelry stores. You might find yourself winning free charms, gift cards, and jewelry.

Newer Post >