The summer is here, which means that you might be looking to plan your next family amusement park trip.
Of course, each of your children might be interested in different rides, shows, and spots—making the task of visiting every last attraction a challenging one.
In order to get the most out of your day at the amusement park and keep all family members in harmony, here are nine tips that will help you plan your day smoothly.
1. Be prepared for an emergency
Amusement park accidents occur more often than you might think, and they occur in a wide range of scenarios.
Of course, there is the occasional injury caused by a malfunction on a roller coaster. According to one study, however, waterslides—not roller coasters—are actually the biggest source of injuries among thrill-seekers.
In any case, it’s in your best interest to be prepared in the case of an emergency. Knowing where the park’s emergency exits and the nearest hospitals are located could end up being the difference between life and death in some circumstances.
2. Buy tickets online, in advance
Buying your tickets online is almost always cheaper than buying physical tickets at the amusement park box office. Plus, it’s more convenient! Simply show up with your digital tickets and have them scanned in order to enter the park.
Also, consider buying your tickets days or weeks ahead, rather than the night before or the morning of when you plan to visit. Even as we’re transitioning out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC is still recommending that amusement parks limit the number of guests they allow at one time.
3. Plan out your day
Even with a full day at an amusement park, you might have to be selective of which rides, attractions, and shows take precedence.
Before you arrive at the park, make a list of attractions that family members want to visit, and make sure you prioritize them in a way that will keep everyone at least relatively happy.
4. Bring a backpack
While some visitors are able to waltz into an amusement park carrying little to nothing, busy families may need to have a variety of items readily available.
Particularly if you’re bringing small children to the amusement park, consider bringing a backpack loaded with all of the different items you might need throughout the day.
5. Pack lightly
Unless you are able to rent out a locker at the park, you’re likely to be lugging your backpack around. While it’s important to keep certain items on hand—such as water bottles, sunscreen, snacks, diapers, cell phones, keys, wallets, and purses—you also want to make sure that your backpack doesn’t become a burden.
The reality is that if your backpack weighs more than 10 – 15 pounds, you may become fatigued after a few hours. So, limit what you pack and make sure your backpack only includes the essentials.
6. Dress comfortably
When planning a day at the amusement park, it’s important that you and your family members also choose the right clothing to wear.
Of course, the weather will play a role in the outfits you choose and the number of layers you wear. But whether it’s warm or cool outside, be sure to leave the tight clothing at home. Loose-fitting clothing will allow you to walk around the entire park comfortably and not feel restricted when strapped in on thrill rides.
7. Check the weather
Inclement weather has the potential to interrupt what would otherwise be an enjoyable day at the amusement park.
Although the park may remain open during adverse conditions, most roller coasters are shut down as they can be affected by wind, rain, lightning, and cold weather.
Conversely, ideal conditions will allow you to enjoy as many of the park’s rides and attractions as possible. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you purchase tickets and once more before the day of your trip!
8. Keep a map handy
At an amusement park, it’s easy to waste time standing in line or deliberating about which ride to visit next. But just as much time is spent walking from one attraction to the next.
Keep a copy of the park’s map in your pocket or backpack. This will allow you to work your way through the park systematically, and as a result, you’ll save hours of time that might have been spent walking!
9. Stay hydrated
Particularly on a hot day and amidst nonstop activities, it’s easy to neglect your water intake. However, a bout of dehydration can quickly throw a wrench in your plans.
Be sure to either pack plenty of water bottles before leaving the house or stock up on water once you’re inside the park. Have fun on your next family amusement park trip!