Drive to Your Next Cruise: Parking, Tips & Savings Guide

What if your cruise vacation could start the moment you pull out of the driveway? More travelers are discovering the freedom and savings of driving to the port—skipping the airport stress and turning the journey into part of the adventure. From family-friendly tips to exclusive AAA Member perks like hotel discounts and fuel savings, this guide reveals how to make your road to the cruise ship as fun and rewarding as the voyage itself.

For a growing number of cruise travelers across the U.S., the vacation begins not at the cruise port—but in their car. With the freedom to set their own schedules, more cruisers are choosing to drive to their cruise vacation, transforming the journey into part of the adventure. Industry estimates reveal that 50% to 60% of cruise passengers now drive to their departure port, with that figure climbing even higher among those living within a few hundred miles.

With many major cruise ports just a road trip away for millions of Americans, your next great escape could be closer than you think. If you're planning your next cruise, pack your bags, cue up your road trip playlist and head for the coast. This handy guide offers some tips to experience a stress-free cruise departure by driving, ensuring you have the very best “Bon Voyage!”

Flexibility and convenience

Driving to your cruise offers a level of flexibility that’s hard to beat. You’re in control—choosing your route, setting your schedule and traveling at your own pace.

Say goodbye to TSA lines, baggage fees and potential flight delays. Especially during peak travel seasons, skipping the airport can mean a much more relaxed start to your vacation. 

When you’re hitting the road with little ones or traveling as a group, driving can be more than just a practical choice—it’s your ticket to flexibility and fun. Load up the car with everything from strollers to snacks, take breaks when and where you want and turn the journey into part of the adventure. That built-in anticipation as you cruise toward your cruise port can be half the fun.

Want to keep the excitement going? Consider adding a detour to a nearby theme park or family attraction before or after your cruise—AAA Members can score savings on tickets, too.

Pro Tip: Make your road trip even smoother by downloading the AAA Mobile® app. You can map your route, dodge construction zones, tap into local discounts, and get quick access to roadside assistance—all from your phone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. 

Parking made simple

One of the biggest advantages of driving is the ease of parking at most major cruise ports. Ports like Port Canaveral, PortMiami and Port Everglades offer secure, multi-level garages and surface lots located steps from the terminal, providing a smooth transition from car to cruise ship.

Many even allow for convenient curbside luggage drop-off before you park, helping to streamline the boarding process. These parking facilities are designed to accommodate thousands of vehicles, but demand can be high—especially during popular sailing seasons.

To avoid any last-minute stress, reserve your parking spot in advance through your cruise port’s website.

Another smart option? Consider booking a hotel near the cruise terminal that offers cruise parking packages that include extended parking and shuttle service to and from the port, allowing you to arrive the night before and start your trip well-rested.

For help comparing parking choices and finding the best pre-cruise accommodations, turn to your local AAA Travel Agent. Their expertise can ensure you kick off your vacation smoothly and confidently.

Pro tip: AAA Travel experts recommend arriving at least one day before your ship’s departure. This extra time helps you avoid unexpected travel delays that could cause you to miss your cruise.

Driving is budget friendly 

When it comes to getting to your cruise ship, hitting the highway can be a surprisingly budget-friendly choice. From skipping pricey airfare and baggage fees to avoiding airport parking and ride-shares, driving gives you more control over your travel budget right from the start. 

When you’re gearing up to set sail on your dream cruise, the last thing you want is packing stress weighing you down. If your journey begins with a flight, you’ll need to navigate a maze of baggage restrictions, weight limits, and added fees—everything from checked bag charges to overweight penalties can quickly chip away at your budget and your patience.

Opting to drive instead of fly gives you the freedom to pack more freely and travel on your terms—no surprise fees, no baggage battles, just a smoother start to your voyage. Plus, for families, the savings can be substantial: driving a family of four to the cruise port often costs significantly less than purchasing four airline tickets, making it a smart and budget-friendly choice that leaves more room in your wallet for onboard fun.

Booking a cruise on short notice? Driving to the port can be a game-changer. Unlike air travel, where last-minute fares can soar, hitting the road offers flexibility and affordability—especially when departure day is just around the corner.

For spontaneous travelers or those seizing a last-minute cruise deal, driving eliminates the stress of finding cost-effective flights and allows you to start your vacation on your own schedule.

Driving can also lead to big savings—especially when you're an AAA Member. Here are just a few key AAA Membership benefits that can help you save on your drive to your cruise. Join AAA and unlock a valuable lineup of discounts and perks designed to stretch your travel dollars further.

• Fuel Reward at Shell: No matter where you’re headed in the U.S., there’s likely going to be a Shell gas station along the way. AAA Members have access to Fuel Reward at Shell, offering discounted gas prices and other stackable rewards at participating Shell stations.
• Love’s Travel Stops: AAA Members can rest easy knowing they have access to top savings at any of the country’s 640 Love’s Travel Stops. Route your next roadside stop to one of their travel centers for exclusive discounts on gas.
• Hotel discounts: If your cruise adventure includes an overnight road trip, AAA Members can take advantage of exclusive discounts and deals at thousands of hotels across the United States.
• Hertz rental cars: AAA Members receive exclusive discounts on car rentals, ideal for when you need more space, a larger car, or an SUV to accommodate the entire group and their luggage. Hertz also offers helpful one-way rentals, great for driving to a cruise and then setting sail. Unlock exclusive savings every time you hit the road—AAA Members enjoy valuable benefits on Hertz rentals, including:
• Up to 20% savings off the base rate on Hertz rentals with AAA Member Benefits*
• Free enrollment in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® loyalty program to earn points toward free rental days and vehicle upgrades. Learn more here. 

Whether you're cruising toward turquoise Caribbean waters or exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska, driving to your cruise port can turn your vacation into a memorable journey from start to finish. With the freedom to pack what you want, travel at your own pace and save along the way with AAA Member benefits, hitting the road offers families a stress-free and budget-friendly alternative to flying.

So fuel up, load the car with your favorite snacks and tunes, and let the adventure begin—because the road to your cruise may be just as rewarding as the cruise itself.