Amusement parks are summertime family staples, but costs can get out of control quickly. From the sky-high entrance fees to outrageously priced yet deliciously tempting foods, many families can't afford amusement park fun. Thankfully, there are ways to cut down on costs without interrupting enjoyment. Here are tips for getting the most bang for your amusement park buck: 

Buy discounted tickets: Schools and grocery stores sell amusement park tickets at a discounted or family rate. Plan ahead and purchase your tickets early in the season at one of these places to save anywhere from $5 - $20 per ticket! Don't forget to look into other offers like discounts for educators or military.

A chance of rain is good: If there's a threat of rain in the forecast or if it's an overcast day, not many will risk the weather. That's why it's the perfect time to grab a cheap poncho and head to your favorite coaster! The lines will be shorter which means more riding for you and yours. 

Go late: Most parks offer discount admission rates if arriving later in the afternoon, so plan your trip accordingly.

Bring, don't buy, snacks: Bringing your own water and goodies not only saves money, but so much time. Sometimes the concessions lines are longer than the lines at the rides! 

Avoid lockers: Who needs to pay for a locker when you've got Ziploc bags?! They'll come in handy for protecting electronic devices and taking home wet clothes. 

Change: Raid your couch cushions! Younger kids love throwing pennies in fountains and older kids flip over the arcade. Keep a few dollars' worth of coins in one of your plastic bags and you're prepared for if wet weather hits or when everyone needs a break from riding. 

Sunscreen: Sunscreen won't necessarily save you money, but it'll save you a lot of complaining from kids who whine about sunburn the whole way home! Apply sunscreen thoroughly before going into the park, and often throughout the day. Kids won't want to slow down to reapply, so pull double-duty and lather them up while they're in line or during lunch.

BYOW: BYOW stands for bring your own wagon! You're bringing enough stuff to save money, might as well have a place to put it! Even if your children are old enough to walk throughout the park, a wagon helps transports all your stuff…for free! Most amusement parks do offer wagons and strollers to help transport your stuff, but they come at a price. If you have your own, bring it.