Let’s be real: theme park food is a gamble. Sometimes you get a decent pizza, and sometimes you get a “chicken wrap” that tastes like sadness. By bringing your own food, you control the quality. Plus, you save enough money for an extra ride on Saw: The Ride—or a second scoop of ice cream. It’s a win-win.
Another pro tip? Pack snacks that don't melt or get gross. No one wants a squashed banana in their bag after a rollercoaster. Think granola bars, crackers, grapes, or—my personal favourite—a bag of Maltesers. They survive loops, drops, and even a surprise rainstorm.
And here’s a social hack: when you’re queuing for an hour under the blazing sun, the family next to you will admire your stash of crisps. You become the hero of the queue. You might even make friends. Or at least, trading a bag of Monster Munch for a free Fast Track? Worth a shot.
Thorpe Park, April food options, and vlog - YouTube
The “But What About My Bag?” Problem
Okay, one tiny downer. You’ll need to carry your food around all day. Most rides have free lockers for your bags while you ride—but these lockers are small. If your picnic is too bulky, you might have to pay for a larger locker. That kind of defeats the purpose of saving money, right? So pack light. A small cool bag with a shoulder strap is your best friend.
Also, be prepared for bag checks at the entrance. The security team will peek inside your rucksack. Don’t panic. They’re looking for glass and booze, not your homemade pasta salad. Just smile and say, “It’s just a picnic,” and they’ll wave you through. I once saw a guy get his bag searched, and all he had was twelve packets of salt and vinegar crisps. The security guard just laughed.
