I book with a travel agent. Not for onboard credit or discounted pricing, but for one other important reason. If something goes wrong, I have someone on my side to help me out, someone who has probably encountered the same issue before. It can be minor or major. I have listened to her instruct a cruise line agent how to book my cruise using a future cruise deposit (which covers a deposit with a smaller down payment and comes with onboard credit). And her number would be the first one I called if I needed to cancel a cruise after final payment or missed the ship somewhere or any of a number of screwups on my part or the cruise lines. She also helps me select the best cabins and dates, but that can be done with multiple Internet resources if you have the time.

As far as packages, they differ from line to line. We sail Princess exclusively for now and their Plus package fits us nicely. We are not heavy drinkers, but are ahead with as few as 2 daily adult beverages because the package includes internet (necessary for us and expensive) and “crew appreciation” (tips). You need to do your own math to determine whether it makes financial sense.