TOP TIPS for the Best Cinema Experience

Chances are, if you read my blog, that means you love film, and that means you must go to the cinema a fair amount. Now we all know cinema trips can sometimes be more stressful than we may like, what with lost tickets, overcrowded concessions lines and so on. SO I've come up with some top tips and tricks you should always keep in mind when going to the cinema, so you can have the best experience possible and enjoy the films as they were meant to be enjoyed.

Remember, I work in a cinema, so these tips are coming from a professional ;)

1. Sit right in front or behind of premium seating

Most big cinemas nowadays have standard and premium seating. Premium seating tends to cost a bit more, but you are guaranteed central seating and thus perfect views. You may also get slightly comfier chairs, cupholders and more leg room, but that differs from place to place. If you're not bothered about the extras but still want to get the best views without spending extra, book your seats the row directly in front or behind the premium seating. That extra row rarely makes a difference, so you'll be getting premium views for a standard price.

2. Plan ahead

If you know the film you want to see is going to be mega busy, say its just come out or its a big blockbuster hit, BOOK ONLINE! DON'T just turn up at the cinema expecting there to be seats left, because you'll be left very disappointed. Also, get there early for concessions and parking, as they will be busy too for busier showings, and you don't want to miss any of your film because you couldn't park or you waited half an hour for popcorn. If you're not sure how busy it will be, contact the cinema and check, or check online and see how many other seats are booked in your showing.

3. If you can, book in person

If its possible at your local and you can get down there, book your tickets in person. If you speak to a person, you have a much less likely chance of having something go wrong with your booking, plus you can ask any questions you may have there and then. It's also sometimes cheaper to book in person, as you may avoid a booking fee. A lot of big cinemas now have electronic tills where you can also book in advance, so you can be in and out in moments with your tickets in your hand, which also saves time before the film.

4. Try and know what you want from concessions

If you're a regular cinema goer you know the drill on food; hotdogs, nachos, popcorn, sweets, etc. If you can, try and make your decision on what you want before you get to the front of the queue. This will make it easier on you and the person serving you, and will make the whole process a lot smoother and quicker. Try and be as specific as possible with flavours, sizes and combos, so you can get your food and be in your seats as quickly as possible. Also, if you have it, contactless is the quickest, easiest way to pay.

5. Seek out deals

Almost all cinemas have deals and offers if you look for them, and they will save you money. For tickets, look out for discounted rates for students, emergency services and families, and if you're unsure ask a member of staff if they have anything that applies to you. Also, if they have one, and again if you're not sure ask, pick yourself up a loyalty card. At my cinema, we stamp the card with every ticket purchase and after a certain number you get a free ticket. If you go to the cinema a lot its certainly something to consider. Over in concesions, look for combo deals, kids offers or themed merchandise, as these can often save you a lot of cash. For bigger films the cinema may offer cups or popcorn tins you can keep, or new deals for kids. Don't be afraid to ask the staff what the cheapest way to do things is.

Some Bonus Tips:

- Bring a jacket, the air con can be fierce

- Ask in advance about accessibility/dietary requirements

- Tell a member of staff if there's a problem, it will be sorted as soon as possible

- Ask staff about after credits scenes

- Be polite to staff, you might be rewarded for it

- If you have small children, bring a booster seat, as the cinema may not always provide them

Do you have any tips or tricks for going to the cinema? Leave them in the comments below!