Funding Your Next Cruise: 5 Side Hustles That Really Work

You don't need to cut corners in your daily life to fund your next cruise! Here are 5 tried-and-true side hustles I personally use to cover travel expenses. All of these can be done on your schedule, whether you have a full day or just an hour to spare. None of these will replace your day job, but if you spend a few hours each week doing one of these side hustles, you'll definitely see a difference in the size of your travel budget!

Instacart

Instacart is one of my favorite side hustles! As an Instacart shopper, you'll get paid to shop for and deliver groceries. Here's how it works: Whenever you want to earn some extra money, all you need to do is open the app and wait for shopping batches to be offered to you. "Batch" is Instacart's term for shopping trip. Most batches are just one customer's order, but sometimes a batch will include orders for 2 or 3 customers. Some batches will be shopped and then left at the store in a designated area for the customer to pick up, and other batches will need to be delivered. For each batch, you'll be shown the store name, store address, total payment, number of items, and miles between the store and the customer's delivery address. When you see a batch you would like to shop, all you need to do is accept the batch and then drive to the store. The app will guide you through the shopping, check out, and delivery. Two hours later, you can cash out directly to your debit card! 

 

DoorDash

DoorDash works similarly to Instacart, but in addition to groceries, you'll also be delivering restaurant orders. You will need to schedule your shifts ahead of time, but you can always cancel or quit early if you change your mind. Here's how Door Dash works: Whenever you log into your shift, Door Dash will begin sending your offers. Each offer will show the pay estimate, restaurant name and address, and miles to the customer's delivery address. You can decide whether the offer is worth your time and then either accept or decline each offer. Accept the higher-paying offers and reject the lower offers to maximize your earnings! DoorDash offers several options to cash out your earnings, including instant cashouts and weekly direct deposits.

Prolific

Most survey sites are pretty scammy, but this one is legit.
Prolific is an excellent site for participating in academic and research studies. Here's how it works: After you create an account, you can log onto Prolific's website to see what surveys are available. Each survey shows the payment, approximate time commitment, and hourly pay rate. The average hourly rate seems to be around $11/hr but it does vary. After you take a survey, the payment will be added to your payment account and when you reach $6, you can cash out instantly to Paypal. My husband and I both use Prolific daily. Since surveys tend to only take 1-5 minutes, it's easy do several throughout the day, earning up to $25/day with very little time commitment. 

UserTesting

UserTesting.com connects researchers to real-life consumers (you) and you can earn money by testing websites and apps. You’ll complete tasks while sharing your feedback aloud, often in a screen-recorded session. Most tests take 10–20 minutes and pay between $10 and $60, depending on complexity. All you need is a computer or smartphone, internet access, and a quiet space. For each website you test, you'll be paid exactly 14 days later to your Paypal account.

Userbrain

Userbrain is very similar to UserTesting, except the payment is only $5 per test and the payment is available to you 7 days after you do the test. Also, the payment isn't sent to you automatically. When you have $10 accumulated (2 tests), you can request a cash out. 

5 Ways to Upgrade Your Cruise Cabin

If you've booked a cruise, but later decide you aren't happy with your cabin selection, can you get an upgrade or cabin change? The answer is YES! While it is advised to book your preferred cabin from the beginning, there are ways to change or upgrade your cabin before sailing if you wish. None of these are necessarily guaranteed, but here are several methods for making that change to your cruise booking.

Call The Cruise Line
At any time after booking, you can call the cruise line to ask about changing or upgrading your cabin type. If your desired cabin is available, most of the time all you need to do is pay the difference to make the change. This can be costly, but sometimes the difference is small. It really just depends on what you paid already vs what the current going rate is. 

Bid on an Upgrade
Most cruise lines will email you at some point after you book to offer you the chance to bid on an upgrade. If you choose to bid on the upgrade, you'll simply follow the instructions in the email to place your bid. If your bid is accepted, your credit card will automatically be charged, and your booking will be updated with your new cabin number. The downside to this is that you can't choose your cabin, so you might get an obstructed view balcony or a cabin in a less desirable area. Also, there's no timeline for when you bid will be accepted. Your bid could be accepted any time until the day of sailing, or it could be declined altogether. The upside to this is that if your bid is accepted, there's a chance you'll end up with a higher category than your bid. For example, your bid for an ocean view cabin could be accepted, but you'll be assigned a balcony cabin. 

Ask Guest Services Onboard
Onboard upgrades are becoming less common, but they do happen occasionally. When you board the ship, consider asking at guest services if you can upgrade to a better category. The is less likely to result in an upgrade than the previous two methods, but it might be worth a try. You will still be asked to pay something, as free upgrades are pretty much unheard of nowadays. 

Book a "Guaranteed" Category
If you book a guaranteed cabin without a specific cabin number, there's a chance you'll get upgraded if your cabin category sells out. For example, if you book a guaranteed interior cabin, but the cruise line sells out of those interior cabins, you'll be assigned a higher category. This is probably the least expensive way to get an upgrade, but it definitely isn't the most reliable.

Book during a "Free Cabin Upgrade Promotion" 
Sometimes cruise lines offer special promotions that promise a free cabin upgrade when you book. These are often run as flash sales or limited time promotions, and the best way to find out about these deals is to sign up for the cruse line's email promotions and follow them on social media. 

Finally, it is important to remember that if a particular category or cabin level is important to you, the best thing to do is to just go ahead and book that in the first place. Never count on being upgraded in the future because none of these methods are guaranteed. Do you have other methods for upgrading your cruise cabin? Leave a comment and let me know how you secure those upgrades! 

Is MSC a Party Cruise Line?

 

When choosing a cruise line, you may ask whether or not the ship is considered a "Party Ship." This is important, regardless of whether you're trying to join or avoid a party atmosphere. Some folks prefer a laid-back experience, and some prefer a vibrant nightlife where they can dance the night away and mingle with friends new and old. Let's discuss the atmosphere on an MSC ship, so you can decide for yourself whether MSC is a party cruise line.

Background on MSC Cruise Lines

MSC joined the cruise industry in 1989 and is one of the largest privately owned cruise lines. You'll frequently find evidence of its Mediterranean roots during your cruise, even sailing out of US ports. Some people may find this frustrating, but I personally love this. Another thing I really love about MSC is that while the prices tend to be lower than other cruise lines, the experience on board feels very luxurious. 

The Atmosphere Onboard

Some cruise lines are known as non-stop party ships, but MSC Cruises are known for an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. There are definitely opportunities to enjoy nightlife, the main goal of MSC is to offer a well-rounded experience that caters to many different tastes. Some areas of the ship will be very laid back and relaxed, while other areas of the ship will appeal to those wanting an energetic night club atmosphere.

Evening Entertainment Options

Each MSC cruise ship will provide several entertainment options to suit varying tastes. You'll find dueling pianos, rock bands, jazz singers, laid-back guitarists, loud and energetic dance parties, comedy shows, magic shows, and Broadway-style shows. The goal seems to be to provide options for everyone on board. 

Family-Friendly Environment

MSC is committed to being family friendly and they offer quite a bit in the way of children's programs on each ship. There are dedicated kids clubs, waterparks, and family activities so passengers of all ages will enjoy a trip to remember.

Nightlife and Social Activities

If you are looking for evening or late night entertainment, you'll be thrilled with MSC Cruises bars and lounges on each ship. MSC does a great job of catering to to different moods and providing a range of atmospheres. You'll find everything from relaxed lounges with jazz singers to dueling pianos to loud night clubs. There will be themed parties on the pool deck almost every night and some smaller parties inside in public areas.  Regardless of the type of evening entertainment you prefer, you'll find something you love.

So, what do you think? Is MSC a party cruise line? MSC does offer a great nightlife experience, and you'll definitely find a party if you are looking for one, but they are definitely not solely focused on partying. Every evening, there will be a party, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to just relax and unwind during a cruise with MSC.

Please Don't Do These 10 Things On Your Cruise!

Embarking on your first cruise? It's more than just a floating hotel! Cruise vacations come with their own set of rules and etiquette to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. Here are ten things you absolutely shouldn't do on a cruise ship to avoid complications and make the most of your vacation.

Don't Raid the Mini Bar Without Checking Prices

Imagine unwinding in your cabin, only to discover those tempting treats aren't complimentary. Some cruise lines charge extra for mini bar items, even with a drink package. To avoid surprises, clarify what's included when you board and ask your cabin attendant to remove any items you'd rather not pay for.

Don't Smoke in Cabins or Balconies

Cruise lines strictly prohibit smoking inside cabins and on balconies for safety reasons as well as for the enjoyment of other passengers. The smoke and ashes from your cigarette could drift onto other balconies or even into their rooms if the balcony door is open. Ignoring this common cruise ship rule could lead to removal from the ship or worse- a ban from the cruise line. Instead, use designated smoking areas provided on the cruise ship to indulge without disrupting others. 

Don't Damage Your Cabin

While personalizing your cabin is fun, certain decorations or items can damage surfaces or furnishings. Some organizational or decor items are even banned on certain cruise lines. For instance, Disney Cruise Lines does not allow over-the-door organizers. Tape or other adhesives can damage the finish on walls or furniture. Opt for magnetic hooks or clips to keep things in place without causing harm.

Don't be Nude on Your Balcony

You might think your balcony is private but trust me, it is definitely not. No matter what you think, there will be someone who will see you on that balcony, so please do not even think about going outside of your cabin nude or doing anything you wouldn't want to be seen by a stranger. Depending on the location of your cabin, your balcony may be seen by neighbors, the bridge, or even security cameras. Keep the nudity in your room, please. 

Don't Remove Gratuities From Your Onboard Account

On most cruise lines, the gratuities will be automatically added to your cruise bill and this will be divided among the crew that work to help make your vacation wonderful. This goes to buffet workers, room stewards, bartenders, and more. Technically, this gratuity is optional, and some people actually go to customer service to opt out of paying the gratuities. Please do not do this even if you plan on handing out cash tips throughout your cruise vacation. The crew members working behind the scenes also depends on the tips. 

Don't Open Your Cabin Door While the Balcony Door is Open

Opening your cabin door while the balcony door is open can create a wind tunnel effect. Things will begin to fly around in your cabin and it will become VERY windy inside your cabin. The door will slam closed and can cause an injury. One recent passenger even lost his finger doing this. 

Don't Be Rude to Your Cabin Attendant or Leave a Mess for Them

The cabin attendants work extremely hard cleaning your room every day and providing you with the things you need for a great cruise vacation.  These crew members are incredibly hard workers. Show them the respect they deserve by being polite when you speak to them and not leaving a huge mess in your cabin. 

Don't Bring Prohibited Items on Your Cruise

Before you cruise, check with your cruise line to be sure that the items you plan to bring are not prohibited. Heat-producing items, illegal substances, CBD and THC products, surge protectors, and open food items are not allowed on any cruise ship. If you attempt to bring these items, security will confiscate the items or even stop you from boarding. 

Don't Rest Your Feet on Public Furniture

I honestly can't believe this needs to be said, but I've seen far too many photos of bare feet on tables, chairs, or theater seats on cruise ships. Your feet are not sanitary. Placing them on armrests, tables, or even seats will spread germs and cause your fellow cruisers to look at you with disgust.  It's rude and gross. If your feet are sore and need to be elevated, please go to your cabin or find a lounge chair on the pool deck. 

Don't Play Music on Your Balcony or Pool Deck 

On my last cruise, my favorite way to enjoy my morning coffee was on my balcony, quietly enjoying the ocean view. Unfortunately, my neighbor enjoyed playing his favorite music on his balcony and I found this quite annoying. I'm not alone in feeling this way. According to recent discussions on cruise groups on Facebook, most people agree that they do not want to hear music from other passengers. Use your earbuds or just enjoy listening to the ocean waves. 

I know most of you would never ever consider doing such things, and I hope you don't encounter such behavior on your next cruise! Do you have anything to add to this list? I'd love to hear from you in the comments! 

Unlimited Cruising for Life with Villa Vie's new Endless Horizons Package

Villa Vie Cruise Line has announced a really great opportunity for avid cruisers: a lifetime of unlimited cruising in a guaranteed ocean-view villa. They are calling it Endless Horizons and it offers all inclusive, unlimited cruises for life.  

Your Ocean View Villa For Life

Villa Vie's Endless Horizons cruise package will allow you to book a luxury ocean view villa at sea, any time you wish, for the rest of your life. Each villa contains the following:

• Mini Fridge
• Smart TV
• High Speed Internet
• Climate Control

All Inclusive Luxury
Villa Vie's all-inclusive offering ensures that your travel experience is seamless and enjoyable. Here's what's included:

• Meals and Dining: A great variety of meals and dining options are included in your package.
• Cleaning and Laundry: Cabin attendants will clean your cabin for you and also do your laundry. This is all included!
• Extended Stays in Ports:  This will allow you to see even more of the destinations than your normally would on a typical cruise.
• Selected Port Excursions: There are some port excursions included with your package.
• Internet Access: Stay connected with complimentary high-speed internet.
• Invite Friends and Family: Friends and family can join you for just $129/day.
• No hidden fees: Gratuities are included, and there will be no extra fees.
• First Medical Consultation Free:  Your first medical consultation on board is free, so you won't need to worry about an expensive medical bill.

Flexibility and Convenience

With the Endless Horizons package, you can stay aboard for any duration as frequently as you choose. You will need to book your cruise 30 days in advance to be guaranteed a spot. If you'd like to board with shorter notice, it might be possible but it's not guaranteed. I think this flexibility is great because you can plan around birthdays, weddings, or other special events with your family. 

Pricing

• Solo Traveler: $299,999
• Double Occupancy: $499,999

Is this something you'd be interested in? My husband and I have been discussing it and it seems like a really great deal but is it too good to be true? Let me know in the comments if this is something you'd be interested in. 

What Not to Pack for a Cruise: 10 Things to Leave at Home and 10 Must-Bring Items

Packing for a cruise? You definitely need to know what to pack, but knowing what NOT to back can be just as important. If you happen to bring the wrong items, your belongings can be confiscated. Remember, a cruise ship is not a floating hotel. It is a marine vessel and special safety precautions need to be followed to ensure your safety. 

Don't Bring These Items: 

1. Iron & Steamer: Cruise lines do not allow irons or clothing steamers due to the potential fire hazard. If you must have something pressed, you can use the laundry service on board. Some ships even have a self-service laundry. Others will have a service that will do your laundry for you. I personally like to use wrinkle-release spray or hang my clothes in the shower to let the shower steam remove wrinkles. This may not be 100 percent effective, but please don't feel bad about walking around with a few wrinkles in your clothing. Your fellow passengers are in the same boat! (pun intended.)

2. Coffee Makers & Kettles: Due to safety concerns, most cruise lines do not allow this nor do they offer this in cabins. Instead, you can order room service for your morning coffee or tea, and in some cases, this is included in your cruise package for free. On our most recent cruise on MSC, we had the Fantastica package, which included free continental breakfast room service and I really enjoyed my morning coffee on the balcony each morning.

3. Beach Towels: Save space in your luggage, and leave your beach towels at home. Your cruise line will supply these for you at no charge. Be sure to return them at the end of your cruise to avoid an extra charge.

4. Hangers: There will likely be about 25 hangers in your cabin, but if you need more you can ask your cabin attendant.

5. CBD, THC or illegal drugs: These items may be legal where you live, but they are absolutely not allowed on a cruise ship. If you attempt to sneak them on board, you run the risk of being denied boarding, being banned from the cruise line or even being arrested!

6. Candles & Incense: Simlar to the iron and clothing steamer listed above, these pose a fire hazard and are prohibited. If these are found in your luggage when you check in, they'll be confiscated.

7. Snacks: These are allowed in sealed, unopened, original packaging. However, why waste luggage space when the buffet will have a wide assortment of snacks? If you'd like snacks for your room, go ahead and bring them back from the buffet.

8. Expensive Jewelry or Handbags: Many people opt for costume jewelry instead of wearing their expensive high-end jewelry on cruises. There are many reasons for this but most importantly, if you happen to leave these items in the safe and forget to retrieve them before you disembark, it's difficult to get these things back after you have returned home. You could also lose them in the ocean during beach days.

9. Surge Protected Power Strips: Surge protectors are a fire hazard and are not allowed on cruises. This is another item that will be confiscated if you attempt to bring it on board.

10. Bottled Water: Your ship will have a good supply of water for you to drink, including bottled water. Check to see if your cruise or drink package includes free bottled water, or bring a reusable bottle to refill at water stations on board.

10 Items You Should Bring

1. Backpack or Beach Bag: I highly recommend using a backpack or beach bag as your carry-on luggage for boarding day. Fill it with your first-day essentials so that you have what you need while you wait for your luggage to arrive at your cabin, then on port days you can use this bag to carry necessities when you are exploring.

2. Sunscreen: Sunscreen and similar products are expensive on most cruise ships, so you'll definitely want to bring your own. Make sure it is reef-safe to protect ocean wildlife.

3. Bathroom Spray: Your bathroom will be very small, so bring a bathroom spray such as Poo Pourri to keep it smelling fresh!

4. First Aid Kit with pain reliever and anti-nausea medicine: The ship will have these things on board, but you'll need to visit the medical center and it will be costly. Save yourself the extra expense by packing your own!

5. Sun Hat: Spending time in the sun is much more pleasant when you can wear a sun hat, plus this will protect your skin and hair from sun damage. There are many varieties of packable hats that you can bring, or you can clip one to the side of your bag.

6. Ziploc Bags: Bring a few ziploc bags of each size. You'll use these to bring snacks from the buffet, carry wet clothes, and contain small items within your luggage.

7. Small Bills: Although most gratuities will be automatically charged, you'll want lots of extras for baggage porters, van or taxi drivers, bartenders or for crew members who provide extra services.

8. Carry-On Bag: Essential for the first day on board, packed with essentials like toiletries and a change of clothes.

9. Luggage Tag holders: Most cruise lines will email you a printable luggage tag prior to embarkation, but these can easily rip. You can buy clear plastic luggage tag holders to protect these tags and keep them securely attached.

10. Comfortable Shoes: Break them in before your trip to avoid blisters. A cruise is a relaxing vacation with plenty of time to sit around the pool, lounges, or the beach. But you'll also find that you'll do a LOT of walking every day. Comfy shoes are a must!

By knowing what to leave at home and what to pack, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.

PARKING OPTIONS FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS AT PORT CANAVERAL

Embarking on a cruise from Port Canaveral? Parking arrangements play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth start to your journey. One option is to book a hotel that includes cruise parking and transportation with your room, but if you only need parking, here are several options that do not require a hotel stay:

Port Canaveral Terminal Parking:
Located within walking distance of the cruise terminals, Port Canaveral offers secure parking facilities directly at the port. While convenient, this option may come at a premium price. 
Cost: $17.00 per day, including the days of arrival and departure.

Park Port Canaveral:
Address: 9245 Charles M Rowland Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
Cost: $10.95 per day when you sign up for their email list and receive a promo code. 

Go Port Canaveral:
Go Port Canaveral offers parking only for guests sailing on the Carnival Mardi Gras. 
Address: 9150 Charles M Rowland Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

Port Parking Space
Address: 8945 Columbia Road, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
Price: $11.66/day with the current promo code

Consider these parking options when planning your next cruise from Port Canaveral. By choosing the right parking solution, you can start your vacation stress-free and focus on creating unforgettable memories at sea.

MSC Voyagers Club- Perks, Status Matching, and Freebies

MSC has one of the best loyalty programs in the cruise industry, especially because they will match your status with another cruise line or hotel.  In this blog post, I'll tell you why you should join MSC's Voyagers Club, what you'll get as a member, and also how to take advantage of MSC's status match program.

MSC's Voyagers Club has 4 levels:

Classic-
This is the lowest tier and doesn't really offer much in the way of perks, but you gotta start somewhere, right? 

The most interesting perks at this Voyagers Club level include the following: 

• 5% discount on future cruises
• Discounts on onboard digital packages, photos, wifi, spa, and fitness.
• $10 off a $50 purchase on the first day of the cruise.
• 30% off a 1-hour fitness package.

You'll also get an e-newsletter, a welcome cocktail on each cruise, and a Voyagers Club card on each cruise. MSC says there's an online area for Voyagers Club, but I've never seen it, so I'm not sure it still exists.

Silver
Silver is the 2nd tier in the Voyagers Club program. At this level, you'll get all of the above, plus the following: 

• $50 onboard credit per person.
• Additional onboard credit for bookings made more than 9 months in advance.
• A milestone reward.

Gold
Gold is the 3rd tier, and at this level, you get all of the above plus the following:

• 1 hour in the thermal area.
• Priority disembarkation on ports where a tender port is required.
• Complimentary photo.
• Complimentary birthday cake.

Diamond
Diamond is the highest tier, and offers you all of the above perks plus the following:

• Priority line for embarkation.
• Complimentary meal at a specialty restaurant.
• Priority disembarkation at the end of the cruise.
• Courtesy bathrobe and slippers to be used during your cruise.
• Complimentary dance class.
• Exclusive Diamond member party.
• Chocolate gift
• Late stateroom checkout on disembarkation.

How to take advantage of the status matching program

It's easy! First, check your loyalty programs and choose the one with which you are ranked highest. Take a screenshot or photo of your loyalty card. I took a screenshot of my RCI Crown and Anchor status. Then, go to the MSC site and fill out all your information. After you submit your information, keep an eye on your email. It took me just a few hours to receive my confirmation email that my status was matched, but other travelers have said it can take a few days.