Cruise ships and their ports of call offer so many choices for shopping. It’s easy to get blown away and go impulse shopping because of all the pretty things you’ll encounter. Especially in certain ports that are specialized in producing certain items, such as jewelry and colorful beach clothing in a different environment, you might get carried away.

Its best to think before making any purchases, because although you may not mind paying for souvenirs, these items may actually be cheaper back home. Many islands in the Caribbean offer cheaper alternatives for shopping, and are also tax and duty free. Before making impulse purchases, ask yourself if you really want those products, and if there are more affordable alternatives back home.

Some cities you will visit on your port of call will offer more affordable alternatives of big designer name items, such as jewelry, clothing, shoes, and the like. To be sure you are getting a bargain, do your research on the ports you will be visiting, shopping options, and the prices of the items back home. The worst feeling you can get after a cruise is knowing you paid for a designer item that cost even more than it does back home, so researching can only benefit you, the shopper.

Little cities and islands have many handmade souvenirs that are great as mementos of your trip. They are also usually affordable, and can only be found in certain places. For example, woven products from Jamaica or other islands and Murano glass from Italy. Items that are unique to these places are usually more affordable directly from the source. Prior to making any purchases, make sure that you have checked the US Customs list of restricted and prohibited items. There are some purchases that might have to be surrendered to customs upon arrival, so it’s best to be sure.

You may go on a cruise trip with the hopes of shopping till you drop. In fact, cruises are a great vacation idea for shopaholics, because of the sheer number of shops and outlets you will visit in various countries in a single trip. However, because of the time restraint in certain ports, you may not necessarily find what you want. In situations like this, your best bet is to shop online and spend your days at port relaxing and strolling the beaches or quaint streets.

It is also a wise idea to research before hand, or inquire with your cruise liner about payment options in ports of call. Credit cards are usually accepted in restaurants and shops across the globe. But if you want to make purchases from a vendor in a side street at a Bahamian island, you will probably have to be prepared to pay in cash with the local currency. Ask your cruise liner about money changing options on board or at ports of call. You wouldn’t want to miss out on a great purchase because you didn’t have the right method of payment, would you?