Let’s face it- theme parks can be expensive. But the biggest expense is, surprisingly, not always the admission tickets- it’s what you buy inside the parks that start hurting your wallet. I covered the largest in-park expense before- bottled water. This time I’ll comer the second biggest expense and ways to save money.
The second biggest expense, hands down, is eating at the theme parks.
It isn’t really possible- or feasible- to leave the parks and find a cheap place to dine when everyone gets hungry; and it can be all too tempting to splurge on fries and burgers at the nearest dining area. But it adds up fast, and it can be a huge black hole for your money. Fries are as much as $4 in some places, bottles of water about $2.50.
We suggest bringing snacks and even lunch to the parks- while coolers are usually not allowed at the parks, food is not prohibited; neither are drinks (except alcoholic beverages). Snacks high in protein will keep energy levels high without a resulting crash. This saves you money for a nice dinner at a restaurant, or for delicious ice cream treats throughout the hot summer day (my Disney favorite is Mickey‘s Premium Ice-Cream Bars). You can also cave in and buy some sodas without the feeling of regret one feels after a bad purchase.
Put carrots, grapes, pretzels, and some nuts into plastic baggies (one each per person). Include some granola bars as well if desired. Bring water along to counteract the saltiness of the nuts and pretzels.