7 Genius tricks for a stress-free theme park day with your kids! (PHOTOS)

Summer is the perfect time to take your kids to the amusement park they've been dying to go to all year long. The only problem? Between the crowded parking lot and the long lines, those outings can sometimes be stressful.

Luckily, there are a few ways you can plan ahead to ensure that your trip will be fun for both you and your family! Read on for some genius tips and tricks that can help you have a fun day!

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Below, check out six tricks for having a stress-free day at the theme park with your kids:

Get there early

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Make sure you and your kids get a goods night sleep because the earlier you are to get up and go in the morning, the more likely you are to avoid crowds and long lines … at least for a few blissful hours!

Take a picture of your parking spot number

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You always think you'll remember the number or letter of the lot you pulled into, but by the end of a long day, there's a good chance you'll have forgotten it–which can be a problem when all the spots look the same and are jam-packed with cars. Make your life a little easier by snapping a photo of the sign closest to your spot before heading into the park. That way, you won't have to worry about it!

Bring along a poncho

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You don't want a random shower to completely ruin your day, especially if you have traveled to get to the amusement park. So be prepared and bring along a poncho, just in case!

Designate a meeting spot

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In the event that you somehow get separated from the rest of your family (hey, these places are crowded!) and you can't get in touch with them (someone's phone ALWAYS dies), you'll know where to find them.

Get a rechargeable case

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Speaking of phones, it might be worth getting a rechargeable case so that you won't have to worry about your phone running out of battery.

Bring a plastic bag for your phone

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If you're planning on going on water rides and have nowhere else to put your phone (or just don't want to store it in a locker), bring along a plastic Ziploc bag so you can seal it in there and prevent it from getting any water damage.

Go on rides during the parades

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If you're going to a park multiple days in a row and have already caught the show or feel okay about missing it, take advantage of the fact that most people will be preoccupied watching the parade and go on rides. No lines!