Everyone loves a flick on the big screen. But the big screen can also come with a big price tag. You don’t have to sneak in snacks or avoid going at all. You can see new releases and still save. These movie money saving tips are sure to help keep you and your family entertained without breaking the bank.
Budget
I know what you’re thinking – Cherie everyone one of your posts bangs this drum. Find a new beat. I get it. But if you want to keep your financial goals on track, there’s a time and place for everything. And there should be a budget for just about everything, too. So if you don’t have an entertainment budget, now is the time to set one up so you have the cash you need to see the movies you want. It’s all about building boundaries so that you can do what you want, friends.
Cash Out Rewards Points
Before you choose your film, you’ll want to first look and see if you’re a member of any rewards programs that offer movie theater gift cards as part of their perks. Fetch Rewards, Swagbucks, and Shopkicks (three of my favs) all offer movie theater gift cards as redeemable rewards. Cash in those points to bolster your budget or go for free.
Buy Gift Cards Under Face Value
You might also be able to score some gift cards for less than their actual cost at places like Sam’s Club and Costco. Since movie theaters rarely offer discounts or coupons, this is a great way to stretch your budgeted entertainment dollars even further.
Get to Know the Theater’s Website
Hit the Internet or App Store for more ways to save. Head to your local theater’s website to see if there are discounted days or rewards programs you can take advantage of. You should know that schedule and all of the offerings, inside and out. I’m not a big fan of any rewards programs that I have to pay to join. However, if the savings offset a visit to the theater, it may be worth it depending on the program.
Think Outside of the Big Brands
AMC, Regal, Cinemark – all of these theaters have phenomenal facilities in my area. But a short 15 minute drive away, there are two local theaters where the prices are much more affordable. Cast the net wide and look for those lesser known places to catch a movie. Don’t forget that many local libraries and park systems also show movies on the regular. Head to their websites for community calendars, too. All it takes is a little extra planning, but the savings you’ll net can make a huge difference in your finances.
Link Rewards Accounts
Any day I can get double rewards is a good day. When it comes to the movies, you can easily do this depending on what films you see. If you’re a Disney, Star Wars, or Marvel fan, you can collect rewards points for every flick you see with the Disney Movie Insiders rewards program. But you can further those earnings when you link your Regal, Fandango, atom, or Movies Anywhere accounts, too.
Use a Cash Back Site
Did you know you can get cash back on your movie tickets when you use Rakuten and purchase through atom? I didn’t either until just recently. I typically use Regal’s program but this is another great option to stretch those dollars.
Stretch the Snacks (or Skip Them)
It’s probably smart to eat before you go to the movies to skip the high priced foods and beverages at the concession stand. But if you do choose to indulge, be sure to split what you purchase. We actually sometimes bring paper or plastic bags to split a larger refillable popcorn between the four of us. No one has to share and there’s plenty leftover. Plus, my husband who is germ adverse doesn’t worry about anyone else touching his popcorn. You can also ask for an additional tray at some movie theaters to split up the snacks, too. Many now also offer fountain water in small cups which is less than ideal but better than nothing. It never hurts to ask!
Living on a budget doesn’t mean you have to live in a cave. But it’s still always smart to be on the lookout for smart ways to save. How do you stretch your movie theater dollars even further?
Our new book Your Money, Your Marriage is now available! Be sure to check out videos on managing money together on Facebook.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
