When you start making summer plans this year, make sure they include going to a drive-in movie. There’s nothing like an outdoor movie under the stars, especially if you can sit in the back of a pickup truck, wrap up in a cozy blanket, and eat your favorite snacks. Whether you go to watch the fireflies or to watch the movie, you’re guaranteed to have a good time if you follow these drive-in movie tips below. Find out what to bring to a drive-in movie and how to set up for maximum comfort.
Bring Your Own Snacks & Drinks
Sure, they sell snacks and drinks at the movie theater, but you’ll pay a fortune for them. Plan ahead and grab your favorite snacks and drinks before you get there. You’ll save money and have a lot more options to choose from. You can even bring a whole meal if you want, or bring a cooler to keep drinks cold. However, there are some drive-in theaters that ask moviegoers not to bring in their own food, so make sure you know the rules before you get there.
Bring Pillows & Blankets
Next, you’ll need to decide how and where everyone will be sitting for the movie. If you have a car or van, you can open the trunk and sit inside with blankets or set up camping chairs on the ground. If you have a pickup truck, fill the back with whatever comfy items you can find: for example, large beanbags, pillows, air loungers, a mattress, and of course, super soft minky blankets. Everyone can pile in and snuggle up for the show.
Check the Weather
Another important item to consider before you leave the house is what the weather will be like. Make sure you’re prepared for wind or dropping temperatures. If it looks like it might rain, you may want to reschedule for another night. Also keep in mind that even on good weather days, it typically gets colder as the sun goes down. Bring light jackets or sweaters and plenty of blankets.
Catch a Double Movie
Many drive-in theaters offer double movie options, where you can watch one right after the other. You’ll only pay the cost of one movie and get several hours of fun. However, it will be pretty late when the second movie ends, so you may not want to bring young children. Or you can let them wear their pajamas to the movie and make sure they have a comfy spot to use if they fall asleep.
Prepare for Pests
Any time you’re outside at night in the summer, you can expect mosquitos and other bugs. Add the allure of the brightly lit movie screen, and you’ll definitely need some protection. Bring bug spray and wear long pants and long sleeves to keep bugs away.
Arrive Early
If you can beat the crowds to the drive-in theater, you’ll have your pick of the best parking spots. Look for one with a great view that is also near the exit. This way, you can easily leave when the movie ends, without waiting in long lines of cars.
Use a Radio App and Bluetooth Speakers
There are apps you can use to tune into the radio station the drive-in uses to provide the audio for the movies. If you use one of these and some bluetooth speakers, you’ll be able to hear the movie well and also avoid draining the battery on your car.
Bring Cash
Although many places accept credit cards, a drive-in thrives on the feeling of nostalgia. You may not need to use cash, but it never hurts to have some on hand just in case. Plus, if you decide you want something from the concession stand after all, you’ll be prepared.
Don’t Forget Your Minky Blanket
Before you finish deciding what to bring to a drive-in movie, check out Sew Sweet Minky Designs to find a wide variety of luxurious blankets. Our super soft minky blankets are hand-made, durable, and perfect for movie night.