BOISE – With the summer travel season in full swing, AAA is sharing tips to make the most of your next visit to a theme park.

“Outdoor activities reign supreme during the summer months, and for many families, theme parks are a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.  “But these trips can have a lot of moving parts, so working with a travel agent can really eliminate some stress in the planning process.”

AAA theme park travel tips

  • Purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case your trip is interrupted or delayed.
  • Consider the benefits of purchasing front-of-line passes to reduce wait times.  Download the theme park app to plan your day, pre-order food, and buy souvenirs.  In some cases, you can also use the app to be made aware of character appearances.
  • Wear matching hats or shirts so that your group is easily identifiable in a crowd.  Pick a landmark where you can gather if you get separated.
  • Purchasing a multi-day pass can make the experience more relaxing and more adaptable to the energy level and interests of everyone in your group.
  • Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and have a game plan for shade and rest.
  • Consider indoor rides or an afternoon swim during the hottest part of the day.
  • Bring or rent a stroller for tired legs and to carry souvenirs.
  • If you need to, build in days between park visits to explore the area and to rest.
  • Be patient – don’t let lines or other details derail your experience.

“Once you’ve put together the best plan possible, try to relax and let the chips fall where they may,” Conde said.  “Remember, you’re on vacation to alleviate stress, not to pack it and bring it with you.”