Six tips for saving cash the next time you seek thrills and entertainment at an amusement park.

There’s nothing quite like an amusement park for having fun and making memories. Whether you’re a fan of roller coasters, cartoon characters, bumper cars or stage shows, make the theme of your next visit saving money with these six tips.

Seek out ticket deals in advance

Buying tickets online in advance often costs less than buying tickets at the gate. Some parks post their best deals on social media, and some even participate in Groupon. Memberships clubs like AAA, AARP, Costco and Sam’s Club can also be a source of less expensive amusement park tickets.

At some parks, you also can get cheaper tickets by visiting on less-busy days. Parks often offer a discount for weekdays and non-holidays. Additionally, going to the park on less-popular days means shorter lines so you’ll actually get more fun for your money.

Also, don’t overlook any park-specific discounts that might be available. Many amusement parks give a special discount to military members, first-responders, government employees, students and large groups. Some employers offer deals too, especially if your company has a location in the same city as the park you’re planning to visit.

Have a plan for meals and snacks

Even if the park you visit doesn’t allow outside food, you still have another option: pack your favorite tailgate foods in a cooler. Then head out to the parking lot when you and your crew are hungry. Before you opt for tailgating, make sure you know the park’s rules about re-entry.

If you decide to tailgate and get hungry while in the park, get a meal that can be shared. It’s less expensive than getting individual snacks for each person.

If the park does allow outside food, consider bringing your own snacks. Avoid anything that can melt, such as chocolate. Opt for things like granola bars, beef jerky, trail mix, carrots and oranges.

Stay out of the gift shops

It’s hard to resist a super-cool t-shirt once you’ve seen it. Avoid temptation by staying out of the gift shops. Some families get fun and less expensive t-shirts to wear before they go to the park, so the kiddos don’t feel like they’re missing out.

Create your own photo souvenirs. Look for action and sights that make you smile or feel a thrill. Later, create a digital photo album. Or, create something more tangible by having the pics printed on something you’ll enjoy, like a mug or t-shirt.

If you love shopping and your trip won’t feel complete without a stop at the gift shop, set a spending limit for each person. Then stick to it. To make your dollar go further, explore a shop outside the park.

Bring the essentials

Buying incidentals at an amusement park can quickly dent your budget. Before you go, make sure you have the following:

• Refillable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• First aid kit with the basics – bandages, pain relievers, etc.

Avoid parking fees

At major theme parks, parking can cost $25 or more each day. However, frugal travelers have found ways around parking fees. Consider carpooling, taking a tour bus or staying off-property and getting an Uber or Lyft ride into the park.

If you’re staying at a hotel or resort find out if they have a shuttle or bus schedule taking visitors to the local amusement park.

Plan ahead and create a budget

The sooner you plan your trip to an amusement park, the sooner you can start saving for it. Plus, if you have savings on-hand to cover your trip, there will be no credit card charges to pay off later.

First, create an overall budget for transportation, meals, tickets, parking and incidentals.

Next, choose your dates, keeping in mind that ticket prices for airfare and park admission will be highest during the peak season.

Decide on your spending priorities. More legroom or more crab legs? Spend more days or have a more luxurious place to stay?

After you have your budget in place, calculate how much you need to save each month and set that amount aside in a savings account. When you head to the park, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your budget to help you avoid overspending.

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