Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Six Flags Survival Guide

One of my best friends just asked me to go to Six Flags Great America with her -- tomorrow! Totally out of the blue, but hey, I'll take it! We'll be accompanying two kids, ages 7 and 8, and their mother to the theme park.

Unlike many people -- most of my family included -- I love love love Six Flags, and pretty much any theme park, come to think of it. I'm a self-proclaimed rollercoaster junkie and will ride anything...gotta get my thrills somehow right?

I've been on more than my share of trips to theme parks over the years. (Being originally from Southern California, a trip to Disneyland was always an accessory when we went back to visit family) Many people though, are bewildered by the thought of going to a theme park for the day, and I'll agree: it gets stressful trying to dress for the weather -- day and night, pack food -- or rather sneak it in or try to find a moderately healthy option at one of the many concession stands, and navigate the park itself, with or without kids. But never fear, North Shore Prep is here to help!

What to Wear:
Hopefully, you're headed to Six Flags on a warm, sunny day. If that's the case, shorts are a must! I personally prefer denim or a madras plaid -- makes it hard to notice if something spills!
I've got a pair similar to these, and they are my go-to for trips to Six Flags and the beach. They're worn in and old enough that I don't really care what happens to them, but still look cute. And I got mine on sale for like twenty bucks :)


All the colors in these shorts make it easy to conceal a spill, or worse, something sat on. Which is totally a possibility.

On top, I like to keep things simple and light, with a simple but fun t-shirt or tank.









If you plan on going on any water rides at all, wear a swimsuit under your outfit! I can't stress this enough, but nothing's worse than spending a few hours soaking wet with your clothes sticking to your skin. Just do us all a favor and wear a swimsuit.

Contrary to popular belief, flip flops or similar sandals are going to be your best bet when it comes to footwear. Your sneakers will get hot and sweaty after a long day of walking, and if you're going on most rollercoasters and other rides, you'll want to take your shoes off anyway, especially if it's a flying type rollercoaster like Superman.

What to Bring:
It will be hot. It will be sunny. Be smart, and use sunscreen, even if it is just the Coppertone 8 that I'm partial to. But know your skin type, and how it fares in the sun. If your fairer, opt for something with a higher SPF. But if, like me, you've never burned in your life and are fine with living with the fact that you'll be at a higher risk for skin issues, go ahead and cover yourself in SPF 8. Carry a travel size container of the stuff in your bag and reapply periodically throughout the day, especially after a water ride. Bring a water bottle in your bag, as theme parks are notorious for raising the price of a bottle of Aquafina to ridiculous levels. Bring your own and refill at a water fountain as needed. Emergency money or a credit card should always be in your bag, especially if you want a souvenir t-shirt from the gift shop. Be prepared to shell out at least $25 for one of those, friends.

Your bag should be big enough for essentials and that's it. You know you aren't going to be sitting down reading a book while you're at Six Flags, so leave it in the car, or better yet, at your house. Be realistic and bring only the essentials: your phone, money, keys, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water. You will thank me later when you travel light.

My personal favorite bags for theme parks are crossbody bags. They allow you to keep your hands free, which allows for easy walking and/or child wrangling.

Sutton Signature Swingpack, Coach



Closing Thoughts:
Get a map of the park, just to get generally familiar with the area and where the rides you want to check out are located. Have a general plan, and be aware of the necessaries: restrooms and restaurants. But all in all, make sure you have fun!!

XO
North Shore Prep

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