How to Save Money at Theme Parks

Theme parks are a lot of fun. People like to go to theme parks as a vacation activity or maybe just a weekend trip. For whatever reason you're going to an amusement park, you should know that these parks are anything but cheap. The parks are built around making a profit, and as a guest at the park, you could be spending more money than you realize.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide on when you are going. Weekends are more convenient for a majority of people, but theme parks can also be more costly then. If you are able to go during the weekday, it will be better. Sit down with the people that are attending the theme park with you and work out a day that is best.

2. Plan your travel arrangements. If you have to fly to get there, the earlier you purchase your tickets, the better deals you can get. Book your flights online to find better deals for your group. If you are driving, try to use the smallest number of vehicles as possible. This can save on gas.

3. Consider lodging. If you do not live close enough to a theme park to get back the same day, you should find reasonable lodging. As it stands, most of the hotels that are nearest to the park will be more expensive. Ideally, find a hotel outside of a twenty-mile radius from the park.

4. Purchase your tickets. If you are in a large group, you may be eligible for discounts and special offers. There are also coupons and other deals through the internet, with consumer products and in stores. You can also purchase your tickets the same day at the theme park, but many deals could cancel out before then. Some theme parks have more than one park inside. If this is the case, check to see if there is an extra cost to enter the other parks. If so, find out if there is a discount if you pay for everything up front.

5. Bring food with you. If you are driving, bring extra food and drink. You will not be able to bring it into the park in many cases, but you may eat it later. Some theme parks allow you to leave the park and come back. This is a great way to save money on food and drinks at the park.

6. Pack a bag full of necessary items: sweater/jacket, umbrella, camera, film or memory card, change of clothes, swim suit, towel, sunscreen and sunglasses. If you forget something, you'll have to purchase it at the park.

7. Avoid the small trappings. You will notice all of the stands and booths around the theme park as you walk: games, picture stands, body art painters and food stands. They may seem fun, but you will be wasting money. Spending money on these things will add up in the end.

Tips & Warnings

• Eat in the middle of your stay at the theme park. That way you can eat outside of the park before and after you go to save money.