Want to See the Barbie Movie Without Spending $15-Plus a Ticket? Here's How

Barbie is all the talk this summer -- and for good reason. Since its release, the movie has achieved many domestic box office records. This includes having the biggest opening weekend of 2023 by bringing in $162 million at the domestic box office, the biggest opening weekend in history for a film directed by a woman.

If you haven't seen Greta Gerwig's Barbie yet, it's not too late to see it in theaters. For those working hard to reach financial goals, a movie outing doesn't have to break the bank. Below, I'll explain how you can see this popular movie without spending $15 or more per ticket.

Look for ways to get a deal on movie tickets

A trip to your local movie theater can be pricey. According to the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO), the average nationwide movie ticket cost $10.53 in 2022. That number will likely be higher for 2023. If you live in an expensive U.S. city, paying $15 or more for a movie ticket is not unusual. In addition to high admission prices, the cost of popcorn and snacks can add up fast.

But that doesn't mean planning a movie outing while on a budget is impossible. If you're strategic, you can see new movie releases, including Barbie, for an affordable price. You can do this by taking advantage of deals. Here are seven ways to save on your next movie date.

1. See a matinee showing

One of the easiest ways to save on your next movie date is to see a matinee screening. Instead of going to the movies in the evening, you can get a deal on ticket prices during the daytime. For example, in Chicago, moviegoers pay only $10.79 for a matinee screening (before 4 p.m.), compared to $15.49 for an evening showing -- that's a savings of 30%. The savings will add up if you're going to the theater with several friends or family members.

2. Buy discounted gift cards (or earn free gift cards)

By purchasing discounted gift cards to your favorite movie theater, you can save money on future movie outings. Retailers like Sam's Club and Costco sell discounted theater gift cards. Another option is to put your credit card rewards to use. Some rewards credit cards allow cardholders to redeem their rewards for gift cards. While this typically isn't the most valuable redemption option, it may be worthwhile if you have no other redemption plans.

3. Sign up for loyalty programs

Many national and independent movie theaters promote free loyalty programs. One example is AMC Theatres, which has a free membership tier, AMC Stubs Insider. Once you sign up, you can earn discounts and freebies whenever you spend money. If you're a regular moviegoer, don't ignore these programs because they provide value to loyal customers like you.

4. Score cheaper tickets with an AAA membership

If you're an AAA member, put your membership perks to use. AAA members get discounts of 35% or more at places like AMC Theatres, Regal, Showcase Cinemas, and Cinemark. By using AAA perks beyond roadside assistance, you can maximize the value of your membership.

5. Go to the movies on a discounted day of the week

Check to see if your favorite theater has a discount movie day. There's a movie theater in my city that promotes a discount deal on Mondays. On Mondays, customers pay only $6.25 for a movie ticket (day or night), and it even comes with a small popcorn. At that price, I feel no regret when swiping my credit card while out on a movie date night.

6. Buy a movie subscription

If you're a cinephile, you may want to consider investing in a movie subscription. Some theaters offer monthly movie passes that allow you to see a set number of films each week or month or unlimited movies for a set price. For example, AMC A-List members can see up to three movies per week for a set monthly fee. Membership prices vary depending on the plan chosen and can vary by geography, but prices for this monthly membership start at $19.95.

7. Ask about other discounts

Finally, don't forget about other possible discounts. Many theaters offer cheaper tickets to seniors, students, and military members. Plus, kids' tickets are often cheaper too. If you think you may qualify for a discounted ticket, don't be afraid to ask.

You can experience Barbie Land without ignoring your budget

It's not too late to take a trip to Barbie Land. As you plan to see Barbie in theaters, see if you can keep more money in your checking account using one of the strategies mentioned above. Check out our free personal finance resources for additional ways to save money.