164. How To Save Money On Cruises (Without Skimping Out) with Amanda Bauner

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned one, Amanda Bauner shares insider tips on how to save on cruise vacations without compromising on the experience. Learn about the cheapest times to go on a cruise, the benefits of DIY planning versus working with a travel agent, and what aspects are worth splurging on. Amanda is an expert in solo travel, cruise travel, and Disney vacations and cruises. She’s a wealth of knowledge and will help you get the most out of every cruise vacation!

 

• The benefits of cruising
• River cruise vs ocean cruise
• Tips for choosing a cruise line based on your travel style 
• Port charges and excursion planning tips
• Resources for researching cruises and much more! 

 

Read the blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/cruising-on-a-budget/  

Amanda Bauner regularly hosts group cruises, like the exciting group cruise to Alaska in July 2025. Click here to learn more.   

 

Connect with Amanda Bauner

• Website: meandthemagic.com
• Podcast: Me and the Magic
• Follow on Instagram: @meandthemagic

 

Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy: 

• Why You Need a Travel Fund – Episode 2
• 10 Ways To Travel Without Getting Into Debt – Episode 143
• Ways To Save Money Traveling and Cut Costs (blog post) 
• Must-Read Budget Travel Books (blog post) 

 

Read My Books: 

• We Are Financially Savvy Travelers 
• Affording Travel: Saving Strategies For Financially Savvy Travelers
• Traveling With a Full-Time Job
• Managing Your Money As A New Homeowner 
• Iceland: Nature, Nurture & Adventure 

 

Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett: 

Join my newsletter: https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/ 

Website: www.thoughtcard.com 

Follow on Instagram: @thedanielledesir

 

Work With Me:

Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. 

 

Resources For Financially Savvy Travelers: 

Thrifty Traveler Premium for finding cheap flights and mistake fares. 

CardPointers for figuring out which credit card to use to maximize points and miles. Save 30% using our link. 

Trade and Travel by Teri Ijeoma for learning how to trade in the stock market as a day trader or swing trader. 

 

Podcasting Gear and Equipment:

• ATR2100x Dynamic Microphone
• Sony Dynamic Stereo Headphones
• Ausha for podcast hosting 
• Streamyard for streaming and high-quality studio recording
• Swell AI for episode descriptions, show notes, and social copy