16 Theme Park Hacks to Save Big This Year

Between roller coasters, kiddie rides and waterpark fun, theme parks are a fun-filled destination. But the cost of admission, food, drinks and souvenirs can add up fast. Before you head out to enjoy the best theme parks this year, try these clever hacks to keep more money in your pocket.

When it comes to theme park tickets, buying in advance can pay off. Parks like Legoland, Universal Orlando, Cedar Point and Carowinds charge less for their tickets if you buy them online ahead of time. Rather than showing up with your credit card in hand at the gate, look up the theme parks in your state to see if they sell discounted tickets online.

Every amusement park has add-ons that leave you digging deeper into your wallet. Skipping the arcade, photo passes, and character experiences can cut down on the total cost of your trip, but looking for free activities can stretch your dollar even further. Even Disney World has free activities around the parks that won't cost you a dime.

Theme parks can raise prices during peak summer months and big holidays like Christmas and New Year's. But this is the perfect chance to cash in on the savings by planning a visit during the offseason. Not only can you save money this way, but you'll avoid the crowds and long wait times for your favorite rides when you skip the busiest times of the year.

Theme parks are popular in the summer, but even cooler months can leave you dehydrated from walking around the park and waiting in long lines. Rather than spending up to $3.00 or more for a bottle of water, bring in your own H2O. You'll cut costs and do the environment a favor when you pack a bottle and refill it throughout the day.

Considering a family of four can spend a fortune on meals and snacks throughout the day, you might want to consider bringing your own food the next time you visit a theme park. Most parks allow soft-sided coolers and bags, and packing a lunch and a few snacks can stretch your travel budget.

When planning your amusement park adventure, one expense you might forget is paying for parking. You might not think it's a big deal, but parking fees at Disney World start at $22 and go all the way up to $45 per day just to park your car. But if you ride a free airport shuttle or take an Uber, you can skip the high parking fees altogether.

If getting to the amusement park will include airfare or a hotel stay, you could get a better deal by bundling the costs together. If you compare the prices of buying the tickets individually, you'll know how much you could save by booking a package. Also, keep in mind that flights to theme park destinations fill up fast, so don't wait too long if you want the best selection.

Planning for the weather and bringing rain ponchos and sweatshirts when visiting amusement parks can save you big bucks over buying them after you get there. Even if you're trying to escape the cold, you might run into a crazy weather pattern or a pop-up rain shower when you least expect it and your wallet will thank you.

This theme park hack is perfect for parents and is a fantastic way to make lasting memories and save money at the same time. Most theme parks have discount prices for kids and saving $10 or more on tickets for ages 10 and under isn't unusual. If you're traveling with a toddler, check the prices carefully. Some popular theme parks offer free admission up to age 2 or 3.

You might know about earning rewards from your favorite credit cards, but theme parks like Six Flags are rolling out membership rewards programs, too. Racking up points for free drinks, meals and discounts on admission is an awesome opportunity to cash in whether you're a frequent or occasional visitor.

When visiting an adventure park, one day isn't always enough to pack in everything you want to do. Luckily, parks can offer ticket upgrade options to add extra days or access to multiple parks without having to pay full price. If you're looking for more time to explore the rides and activities in the park, this money-saving hack is for you.

If your destination includes multiple theme parks like you'd see in California or Orlando, buying individual tickets can be hard on the budget. But there's no reason to skip any of the fun when you can bundle admission to multiple parks with CityPass. Plus, your CityPass can offer additional shopping and dining discounts, too.

Credit card rewards are the perfect companion to score deals on theme park admission. Earning cash back from a rewards credit card is an excellent way to reduce the amount you pay out of pocket, and you might earn bonus cash back when you use your credit card for travel and entertainment purchases while you're there, too.

If your theme park adventure includes an overnight stay, sometimes booking a room on-site or with a hotel partner will get you perks like early admission and free transportation to the park. And that can mean shorter lines for your favorite rides at Universal Studios and not having to pay extra to park your car.

While some things are worth splurging on when you're visiting a theme park, t-shirts and trinkets are often left to collect dust after you return home. If you've got your eye on an expensive souvenir at the theme park, consider looking for a similar memento away from pricey tourist areas to save money.

Following your favorite theme parks on social media is another money-saving option for an unforgettable summer trip. Whether you're on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, watch for flash sales and seasonal discounts on tickets and dining plans. Deals can pop up all the time, and you can save more by checking in throughout the day while you're at the park, too.