Whether you live near a theme park or you're busting out the Family Truckster for miles of road trip fun, chances are your family will be eating an $8 churro at some point this summer. I want to help.

The key to any successful theme park outing is in being patient and prepared, or as I like to call it, the PP Plan. Which reminds me, if you have small children make them use the restroom before you get in line for anything. You'll thank me.

Being prepared depends somewhat on the theme park you are visiting and the time of year that you are doing it. For this example, if this was winter you'd dress in layers and put a jacket in a locker. However, now it is hot and the only layers you'll need are in coats of sunscreen. Hats and sunglasses are a good idea, too.

Speaking of clothes, most parks have a number of rides and areas that include water. Lots of water. You may want to bring a backpack with an extra set of clothes and a pair of flip-flops or water shoes for these moments. Trust me, I've been drenched on Splash Mountain in a pair of jeans and Converse with nothing to do about it but sit there and dry. It wasn't comfortable.

You can also save a few bucks by packing some rations. While rules may vary, you can usually take in bottled water, fruit and snacks for the kids (of all ages).

The patience doesn't involve any shopping, but it does build off of the preparations you have made. Pace yourself. Sit in the shade. Don't try to do it all. Drink plenty of fluids. You'll see lots of families losing their cool throughout the day. Don't be one of them. Theme parks are supposed to be fun. Let them do their job!

Here are three items that will help you be prepared and enjoy the experience: