Use hard-sided luggage. Do not use garment bags with hanger hooks protruding from the top.

Put a card with your name and address inside your luggage, as well as on the outside.
 

If you're cruising alone, consider participating in a cruise line's "guaranteed share rate," which is a program that finds you a roommate of the same sex. This will help you avoid paying the "single's supplement."

If you are cruising alone, expect to pay a "single's supplement" that can be anywhere from 10-100% of the per person rate.

One way to reduce the expenses of a longer cruise is to choose a repositioning voyage, which is when a cruise line moves a ship from one region to another between seasons.

You can also save money through early-bird discounts, which are discounts given for advanced booking.

Heavily discounted rates are often available during a destination's off-season. Determine when that off-season is and look for cruises during those months.

If you are crunched for time, book a 3- or 4-day cruise. You'll save some money and still enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

Compare different cruise lines that operate similar itineraries in the geographical region you'd like to cruise.

Compare ship sizes and facilities.
 

If you are worried about getting seasick, book a cabin in the middle portion of the ship, both vertically and horizontally.

Inside cabins, which do not provide an ocean view, are the least expensive.

Outside cabins have a porthole or a window. More lavish outside cabins may have private balconies.

Suites usually provide a separate bedroom, a living area, and a bathroom, and are the most expensive. They may or may not come with a private balcony.

If you're traveling with your partner, make sure that any smaller beds in your cabin can be adjoined. Or request a double bed.

If you have a disability, make sure that the ship can accommodate your needs.

Because of noise problems, avoid booking a cabin near the ship's laundry, generator, galley or clubs.

Many cruise lines describe suites as accommodations that are simply larger cabins with a curtain dividing the sitting and sleeping areas. Before booking a suite, make sure it is what you envision.
 

If you need to stay wired while onboard, find a cruise ship with an Internet café or in-cabin data ports.

An increasing number of cruises offer accommodations for birthdays, anniversaries, business meetings and other special events. If you have reason to celebrate, find out what packaged amenities are available.

Most cruises offer pre- and post-cruise packages that involve accommodations, excursions and transfers. These packages are excellent ways to extend vacations.
 

Check the demographics of ships carefully, especially if you are traveling alone or with children.

Many cruise lines offer special children's programs and activities. If you have kids, inquire about children's facilities before booking.

If you are a non-smoker and prefer not to be around those who smoke, book a cruise on Carnival's Paradise, the world's first and only completely smoke-free ship.

Remember that 3- and 4-day cruises typically attract younger passengers, as do cruises on weekends and school breaks.
 

For a more intimate cruise with personalized service, choose a smaller ship that accommodates roughly 500 passengers.

For a good choice of company and more activity, select a medium-size ship with 500-1,000 passengers.

In you crave lots of organized entertainment, high-tech facilities and lots of potential friends, choose a large ship with 1,000-3,000 passengers. These ships are destinations in themselves.

If you seek relaxation, a "port a day" cruise may become exhausting. Choose an itinerary that balances sea days with port days.
 

Remember that shore excursion expenses are typically not included in the cruise fare.

Expect to pay $20-100+ for shore excursions.

If you are elderly or have a handicap, you may not be able to go ashore at some ports. Check with the cruise line.

Check with the cruise director or physician about where to eat onshore. Some food items and beverages, especially water, may be off limits.

To explore a city more in depth or to see an aspect of it not included in the fare, consider traveling on your own rather than with a tour group.

Book shore excursions as soon as possible after boarding a ship.

You aren't likely to be covered under a ship's insurance if you explore on your own. Check the details of your ship's cruise policy beforehand.

During a shore excursion, always carry identification, the name of your ship and its docked location. Take a photocopy of your passport with you as well.

If you explore on your own, it up to you to get back to the departure point on time. If you miss a launch, you'll have to meet the ship at the next port - at your expense.

Leave valuables, excess cash and unneeded credit cards aboard.

Guides may give you badges to wear for identification, but bear in mind these identifiers only make it easier for shop keepers and thieves to target you.
 

Tie your swimsuit.

Many cruise lines offer in-cabin babysitting. Take advantage of this service.

Plan to spend about $10-15 a day for tips.

Tip waiters, headwaiters, shore guides, spa and salon experts, cabin stewards and any other persons who give extra-special service.

On many cruises, a 15% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs.

Do not leave valuables out in the open in your cabin.

You do not have to soak up all of the sun on the first day.

Drink in moderation. Most onboard mishaps are alcohol related.

Don't panic if your luggage isn't in your cabin when you arrive. It may take a few hours for luggage to be distributed.

Learn the exit route from your cabin to the open decks, in case of emergency.

Sign up for salon appointments, health spa services, sports and all other activities early.

If you booked an air/sea package and your luggage does not arrive, the airline is responsible for delivering it to the next port. Give the airline an itinerary and a list of port agents.

Inspect your cabin and report any complaints immediately.

Few ships offer tables for two dining. If yours does, ask the maitre d' to provide accommodations for you and your partner.

Attend the lifeboat drill and pay attention to the information given.

Note the phone number for the ship's hospital or doctor in case of emergency.

Grab your deck plan and take a walk to familiarize yourself with the layout of the ship, and learn how to reach your cabin from the main stairways.

Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks not consumed at dinner, laundry, phone calls, casino gambling and other various activities are not included in the cruise fare.
 

At the end of the cruise, you will receive a bill for signed items. If extra charges appear, ask to see all the charge slips and get a copy of a modified bill.

If your cruise is less than satisfactory, inform the cruise line representative immediately. For valid complaints, cruise lines may offer credit toward a future cruise.