3 ways to save on a family day at the water park

On a hot summer afternoon, a trip to the water park can be just the ticket when it comes to family fun. Here's how to get the most family fun from your water park visit while spending a little less money.

Most water parks offer incentives to get people in during the slow season, to bring more people in on weekdays, or just to up the overall head count.

• To get the best deals, you have to be willing to go when they want you to. If you're flexible, it's a great way to save money.
• Being proactive and willing to take advantage of a price break is all that it takes.
• Check the website for the water park as early as you can or take another tactic and try for last-minute bargains that they offer.

If you and your family will be staying overnight, then a package deal can be the way to go.

• Hotels and admissions bought together are sometimes supplemented by free meals and other attractions, like mini golf or amusement rides.
• If you're planning a birthday party or large family get-together, group rates always offer savings. Still, it pays to check hotel rates separately, just to make sure the package stacks up.

Just remember to look at all the options and don't forget to factor in things such as distance away from the park vs. convenience. If it's a few dollars more to stay close, it's probably worth it.

Like any amusement centre or sporting event, water parks will have food for sale at a premium price. A good rule of thumb for eating economically is to only get snacks at the park.

• A good breakfast before arriving at the park is the way to start. Everyone is full and there's time before going in the water for things to settle a bit. Follow that by a late lunch or early dinner after the fun and everyone should be happily fed.

Eating before and after being at the park will save you money. What's more, you needn't worry about the kids eating too much and then getting in the water right away.

From east to west, Canada has amazing water parks ready to thrill your family. It's great to plan a getaway to one and save money at the same time!