One Place On A Cruise Ship Where It's Usually Best To Use Cash

Cruises are a great way to enjoy multiple destinations together while getting an all-inclusive, top-notch service on the way. That means that you're not just getting to explore different places but you're enjoying the journey as well. No wonder it is a popular choice among travelers. With so many different cruise lines, destinations, and onboard activities, going on a cruise can be the ultimate adventure.

Whether it's an all-inclusive cruise or not, many travelers tend to go cashless. After all, it does seem quite redundant if everything is already paid for. Why worry about how to keep your cash safe? Otherwise, your expenses can easily be charged to your cruise card preventing you from needing cash. However, there is one place on a cruise ship where cash is highly recommended: the casino. It is not part of your pre-paid expenses and it requires money upfront to use its facilities. Here's why it's best to pay in cash when you head to a cruise ship casino.

Before planning for your cruise, it's best if you set a budget for how much you'd like to spend in the casino. After all, it is a gamble, and having cash is a great way to stay on top of how much you've spent. That way it will stop you from spending more than you'd like. Once the money is gone, you know that you're pretty much done, preventing you from dealing with the risks.

Another important reason why using cash is ideal in this area of the ship is that surcharges are added to the stateroom bill, similar to adding a charge at the bar, or anything else on board cruises that are not all-inclusive. According to a Redditor, it can differ from one cruise line to the other, but most cruise ships will charge an additional transaction fee of 3%-5%. Why pay that additional expense when you can come prepared, avoid fees, and ensure you don't overspend? All you need to do is bring enough cash for your entertainment at the casino in advance.

First things first; bringing the right amount is key. Before you board, determine how much cash will go towards the casino, and bring that along with you. This will not only set the budget you're comfortable with, but also help you avoid using credit cards, lines of credit, or ATMs on board, which all come with an additional service fee.

Speaking of ATMs, it's wise to know that they are available on board, but they usually come with pretty high withdrawal fees. Having cash in advance will prevent the need for that additional surcharge. Other options also include paper credit slips that can be used as cash at either machines or slots, but any advance on cash most likely comes with additional fees depending on the cruise line's policy.

There's no harm in contacting the cruise line in advance and asking about their policy regarding small cash withdrawals through their guest service. Or at least figure out if winnings can be converted to onboard credit to be re-used at the casino. This will be a great option if cash runs out and it prevents travelers from having to bring a safety net with them just in case.