Going to the movies is a favorite past time for a lot of people, but unfortunately, it’s also a really expensive past time. Gone are the days when a movie and popcorn would cost a few dollars. Nowadays, you’ll be lucky to get away with spending less than $40 and most of that will be just for tickets. So you are wondering how to save money at the movies? Well I have some great tips!

How to Save Money at the Movies

Time of day matters – Matinees are still the least expensive way to see a movie in the theater. Instead of heading out in the evening, see about heading to an afternoon movie. You’ll save big on ticket costs and still get to see the flick that you want to.

Purchase online – Some theaters offer a discount for purchasing your tickets online. Use a site like Fandango to search for deals and buy your tickets ahead of time.

Use a gift card – InstaGC, Perk and Swagbucks all offer gift cards for the movies that can help you cut down on your out of pocket cost. Cash in your points over there and use them to get your movie tickets really cheap or even free!

Bring your own snacks – Bringing your own snacks is a GREAT way to save. For what a tub of popcorn would cost you, you can bring your own candy and other goodies. The one kicker to this is that you be SURE that it’s okay with the theater. Some allow it and others don’t. The last thing you’d want is to be kicked out of the movie over a bag of chips.

Skip it all together – If at the end of the day, you decide that going to the movies is just too expensive, skip it. Order a movie on Amazon Instant Video or kick up Netflix and stay in, snuggled on the couch.

What Money saving tips do you have for saving at the movies?