For many of us, summertime means family fun! A break from school, enjoying outdoor activities, and spending time together means building memories that can last a lifetime. When it comes to exciting travel destinations, theme parks are often at the top of the list. What kid (or kid at heart) wouldn’t want to dance with a famous mouse or take a wild ride on a crazy coaster?
But visiting theme parks can really break the bank if you’re not aware of the added costs once you’ve passed the gate. In addition to tickets, there are snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and other expenses that can bruise your wallet. Here are a few tips that can keep your adventure fun and budget-friendly.
Save on Lunch and Snacks
While not all parks allow you to tote in your own food, many do. Pack a cooler with an ice pack, and store your lunch in a park locker. Locker rentals are usually only a few dollars, and that’s well worth the cost, compared to spending $60 or more on hamburgers for a family of five (and, you'll save valuable park time by avoiding long waits at food counters). Contact the park beforehand, to ensure they allow you to tote your own. If bringing your own is not a viable option, consider splitting a large meal, or having a big lunch instead of an overpriced dinner. Lunch is often less expensive than post-sunset meals.
You might not be able to bring coolers into the park, but you can certainly keep a packed cooler in your car for a little afternoon tailgate party. Tip: Lay a damp towel over your cooler, so the ice won’t melt as fast.
Water is Free
Before you pull the trigger and buy that $8 bottle of water or overpriced soda, check in with onsite restaurants and quick-service spots. Often, these spots will give you water for the asking. In fact, some states require that water is offered at no charge anywhere that food is served.
Sign up for Promos
Make sure you sign up for theme park newsletters, follow park social media accounts, and download park apps for offers and promo codes. Theme parks frequently offer coupons for dining, added attractions, and shopping, as signup incentives. Checking out travel blogs and podcasts ahead of your trip might also offer you money-saving ideas and offers.
Membership Has its Privileges
If you are a member of a Costco, Sam’s Club, AAA or AARP, you might find discounts available to you via your membership. Since they are able to buy in massive quantities, many of these clubs offer park ticket prices or gift cards for parks, at a discount.
Additional savings can often be obtained via discount websites, such as Groupon or Raise.com.
Wander Outside of the Park for Souvenirs
Theme parks frequently have stores just outside the gates, and they carry the same merchandise for a lot less. Plan a shopping day at the end of your vacation to hit up those stores for your keepsakes. You can also save money on items like sunscreen, snacks and other park necessities, by visiting stores outside the park before you go.
Visit During Off Hours
If you start your day at the park early, not only can you get a jump on the rides before the lines get long and the temps soar, you can be done earlier, which means you can eat at home, or on the road at a reasonably priced restaurant. Or, consider spending some time at the hotel pool in the morning and head into the parks later. Some parks will discount tickets in the evening hours, and you’ll save time by enjoying the rides while other visitors are watching the parade or fireworks.
Upgrade Your Ticket for More Fun at Less Cost
If you had fun during your day at the park and think you want to return in the near future, stop by a ticket window and inquire about prorated discount pricing for a return trip. Many theme parks offer season passes for a relatively small price over the cost of 1-day or weekend admission. For example, a major theme park in Virginia charges $70.00 for a one-day pass or $168.00 for an annual pass. Annual passes often come with bonuses, too, like free parking or dining discounts.
Do you have a travel savings tip or trick? Share below!
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