Royal Melbourne Show 2018: Rides and attractions on a budget

EVERYONE loves the Royal Melbourne Show. So to help you make the most of your visit in 2018, minus the hefty costs, here’s everything you need to know to plan a fun day without burning a hole in your wallet.

SHOWTIME will descend on Ascot Vale next weekend.

The Royal Melbourne Show kicks off on Saturday, for two weeks of rides, attractions and — of course — showbags at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

But all the excitement can be a drain on the hip pockets for families.

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE 2018 ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

WHO WILL BE THE FIRST TO TEST THE SHOWBAGS?

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON IN MELBOURNE THIS WEEKEND

Thankfully, there’s a whole lot of fun to be had that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

Here’s our best money saving tips.

Ted, 2, with Iceberg the three-week-old goat. Picture: Mark Stewart

Food: While there will be food trucks galore, keep your costs down by booking a tasting session at the Woolworths Kitchen where you can sample a variety of meat, cheese, baked goods, and fruit and veg at the Woolworths Sampling Showcase.

Entertainment: Bring a blanket and see Jimmy Barnes for free on Saturday, September 22 at 4.45pm on the main stage.

For the kids, there’s a ton of free daily shows including Cosentino the Grand Illusionist from Circus Oz at 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

The BMX and Motorbike Stunt Show with BMX and Freestyle Moto-X is also on daily at the entertainment precinct. There’s also fireworks on every night from 7.45pm.

Cheap tickets: Save 30 per cent on ride passes by buying packs online before the show starts on Saturday. Save up to 50 per cent on admission if you arrive after 5pm.

MORE NEWS

IS THIS MELBOURNE’S BEST PARMA?

MACEDON RANGES 1800S COTTAGE FOR SALE FOR FIRST TIME IN 140 YEARS

WWE STAR’S MELBOURNE SUCCESS STORY

St Margaret Mary's Primary School students Nancy, Mishi and Liam testing out some of this years showbags at the Royal Melbourne Show. Picture: Ian Currie