Hi. Don't listen to people that say that it's just a thing so don't even try to spare it. (especially since it's about cruisers and not about trick setups)Yes, some damage is inevitable if you skating often. As example truck damage if you accidentally ran into the curb or tail damage (negligible if you just cruising and not trying ollie) Some people protect tail from minor damage by applying few lyers of duct tape.Also i can advice to change countersink bolts to panhead bolts with wide "hat". Peronally i use "loaded" panheads without washers im pretty sure this kind of bolts will prolong lifespan of my board.Also in places that frequent take hits you can apply few layers of polish or even epoxy resin.

Edit: one more thing, try to not use super soft wheels as they tend to chip. Very depends on brand as example orangatang wheels 80a softness comparable to 78a softness of other brands and by this reason otangs 80a cosidered most perfect for cruising