Tips on Finding Affordable Concert Tickets

Finding affordable concert tickets can be a challenge, but with the right tips and strategies, you can enjoy your favorite live performances without breaking the bank. From knowing where to look to being flexible with your plans, these tips will help you score the best deals on concert tickets.

 

Look for Presales

Presales offer an excellent opportunity to buy tickets before they go on sale to the general public:

• Join Fan Clubs: Many artists offer fan club memberships that give you access to presale tickets. This often means better seats at lower prices.
• Sign Up for Newsletters: Venues and ticket sellers often have newsletters that announce presales. Sign up to stay informed.
• Use Credit Card Offers: Some credit cards provide presale access as a perk. Check if your credit card offers this benefit.

Use Ticket Comparison Sites

Comparison sites can help you find the best prices by aggregating listings from multiple sources:

• StubHub and SeatGeek: These platforms allow you to compare ticket prices from various sellers, helping you find the best deal.
• TickPick: This site aggregates tickets from different sellers and shows you the final price without hidden fees.

Check Secondary Marketplaces

Sometimes, people need to sell their tickets, often at a lower price:

• eBay and Craigslist: These platforms can have affordable tickets from people who can no longer attend the concert.
• Facebook Marketplace: Local groups and marketplace listings can also be a good place to find discounted tickets.

Be Flexible with Dates and Locations

Flexibility can help you find cheaper tickets:

• Attend Weekday Shows: Concerts held on weekdays often have cheaper tickets than weekend shows.
• Travel to Different Cities: If your favorite artist is performing in multiple locations, compare ticket prices in different cities. Sometimes, traveling to a nearby city can save you money.

Buy Last-Minute Tickets

Sometimes, waiting until the last minute can pay off:

• Check for Discounts: As the concert date approaches, sellers might lower prices to sell off the remaining tickets.
• Use Last-Minute Apps: Apps like Gametime specialize in last-minute ticket deals, often at significantly reduced prices.

Join Rewards Programs

Many venues and ticket sellers offer rewards programs that can save you money:

• Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs at venues you frequent. These programs often offer discounts and early access to tickets.
• Credit Card Rewards: Use credit cards that offer rewards or cash back on entertainment purchases.

Look for Group Discounts

Attending concerts with friends can be more affordable:

• Group Rates: Some venues offer discounts for buying a block of tickets. Check if there are group rates available.
• Family and Friends Discounts: Look for special promotions that offer discounted rates for larger groups.

Follow Artists and Venues on Social Media

Social media can be a valuable tool for finding ticket deals:

• Twitter and Facebook: Follow your favorite artists and venues on social media to stay updated on ticket sales and promotions.
• Instagram Stories: Artists often announce special deals and ticket giveaways in their Instagram stories.

Attend Smaller Venues and Festivals

Smaller venues and music festivals can offer great value for your money:

• Intimate Venues: Smaller venues often have cheaper tickets and provide a more intimate concert experience.
• Music Festivals: Festivals can be more cost-effective, allowing you to see multiple artists for the price of one ticket.

Consider Seat Options

Different seating options can significantly affect ticket prices:

• General Admission: Standing areas often have cheaper tickets than reserved seats.
• Upper Levels: Seats in the upper levels or further from the stage are usually more affordable.

Use Student and Military Discounts

Many venues offer special discounts for students and military personnel:

• Student Discounts: Check if the venue or ticket seller offers student discounts. You may need to provide a student ID.
• Military Discounts: Active and retired military personnel can often find discounted tickets. Verify if the venue offers this option.

Look for Early Bird Specials

Early bird specials can provide significant savings:

• Early Purchases: Some concerts offer lower prices for those who buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. Stay alert for these opportunities.

Join Ticket Alerts

Stay informed about ticket sales and deals:

• Set Up Alerts: Use services like Google Alerts or Ticketmaster’s notification system to receive updates about ticket sales and promotions for your favorite artists.

Conclusion

Finding affordable concert tickets doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking advantage of presales, using ticket comparison sites, checking secondary marketplaces, being flexible with your plans, and using various discounts and rewards programs, you can enjoy live performances without spending a fortune. Remember, a little planning and research can go a long way in helping you score the best deals on concert tickets. Happy concert-going!