How to Buy Football Tickets for Away Matches?
Last updated: 29 July 2024Learn how to buy football tickets for away games to secure the best seats and experiences for supporting your team on the road.
There's nothing quite like the thrill of watching your favorite team play in an away game. The atmosphere, the excitement, and the camaraderie among fans create an unforgettable experience. However, securing football tickets for away games can be a challenging task, especially for popular matches or high-profile tournaments.
One of the most crucial aspects of planning your away game experience is finding a reliable source for purchasing football tickets. With numerous online platforms and ticket resellers available, it's essential to choose a trustworthy provider that ensures you'll receive authentic tickets and won't fall victim to scams or fraudulent sellers.
The world of football ticket purchasing has evolved significantly over the years. In the past, fans often had to queue for hours at ticket offices or rely on postal applications. Today, the process has largely moved online, offering both convenience and new challenges. The digital age has brought about increased accessibility, but it has also opened the door to potential scams and inflated prices from unauthorized resellers.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of buying football tickets for away games, including:
- The best platforms for purchasing tickets
- Factors to consider when buying
- Tips for finding affordable options
- Strategies to maximize your chances of securing tickets
- Common pitfalls to avoid
- The importance of planning ahead
- How to make the most of your away game experience
By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the world of away game ticket purchases and increase your chances of experiencing the excitement of supporting your team on the road. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first away game, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you secure the best tickets possible.
Best Place to Buy Football Tickets for Away Games
When it comes to purchasing football tickets for away games, one platform stands out as a reliable and comprehensive option: VisitFootball.com. This website has established itself as a go-to source for football fans seeking tickets to away matches across various leagues and tournaments.
Benefits of Using VisitFootball.com
VisitFootball.com offers several advantages that make it an excellent choice for buying away game tickets:
- Unparalleled Access: The platform provides access to tickets for some of the most popular football leagues and competitions, including:
- Secure and Reliable Purchasing: VisitFootball.com employs robust security measures to ensure that your personal and financial information is protected throughout the transaction process. This includes:
- SSL encryption for all transactions
- Secure payment gateways
- Regular security audits and updates
- Wide Selection: The website offers a diverse range of ticket options, from standard seats to football packages, catering to different preferences and budgets.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform features an intuitive design that makes it easy to search for and purchase tickets for specific matches or teams. Key features include:
- Advanced search filters
- Interactive seating charts
- Mobile-friendly design for on-the-go purchases
- Customer Support: VisitFootball.com provides dedicated customer support to assist with any questions or issues that may arise during the ticket-buying process. Support options include:
- Live chat
- Email support
- Phone support during business hours
- Comprehensive FAQ section
- Guaranteed Authenticity: All tickets sold through VisitFootball.com are guaranteed to be authentic, eliminating the risk of purchasing counterfeit or invalid tickets. This guarantee includes:
- Verification of ticket sources
- Secure ticket delivery methods
- Price Transparency: VisitFootball.com strives to provide clear pricing information, including any additional fees or charges, to help you make informed decisions.
- Regular Updates: The platform is constantly updated with the latest fixture information, ensuring that you have access to tickets as soon as they become available.
- Educational Resources: The website provides helpful guides and articles on topics such as stadium information, travel tips, and local attractions near the venues.
By choosing VisitFootball.com as your primary source for away game tickets, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you're dealing with a reputable platform that prioritizes customer satisfaction and ticket authenticity.
Comparison with Other Ticket Sources
While VisitFootball.com is an excellent option, it's worth considering how it compares to other ticket sources:
Ticket Source | Pros | Cons |
VisitFootball.com | - Wide selection - Guaranteed authenticity - User-friendly interface | - May have higher prices for high-demand games |
Official Club Websites | - Direct from source - Often cheapest option | - Limited availability - May require membership |
Secondary Market Sites | - Can find last-minute deals - Wide selection | - Risk of fraudulent tickets - Often higher prices |
Local Ticket Offices | - No online fees - Personal service | - Limited to local area - May require queuing |
While each source has its advantages, VisitFootball.com offers a balance of reliability, selection, and convenience that makes it a top choice for many football fans.
5 Factors to Consider When Buying Football Tickets
When purchasing tickets for away games, several factors can influence your buying decision and overall experience. Consider the following aspects to make informed choices:
Timing is Everything
The timing of your ticket purchase can significantly impact both availability and price. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Early Bird Advantage: Purchasing tickets well in advance often provides access to the best seat locations and potentially lower prices. Many clubs release tickets for away games several weeks or even months before the match. Being prepared to buy as soon as tickets go on sale can give you a significant advantage.
- Last-Minute Opportunities: In some cases, average ticket prices may approximate face value in the week leading up to the game. This can happen when ticket holders are unable to attend and need to sell their tickets quickly. However, this approach comes with risks, as popular matches may sell out quickly, leaving you without options.
- Seasonal Considerations: Ticket demand and prices may vary depending on the time of year and the importance of the match. For example:
- Season openers often see high demand as fans are eager to start the new season.
- Derby matches or games against major rivals typically command premium prices.
- Matches near the end of the season may be more expensive if they have championship implications.
- Holiday period games (e.g., Boxing Day fixtures in England) can be particularly popular and expensive.
- Midweek vs. Weekend Games: Generally, weekend games are more popular and may be more expensive than midweek fixtures. If you have flexibility, consider attending midweek matches for potential savings.
To illustrate the impact of timing, let's look at a hypothetical example:
Purchase Timing | Potential Benefits | Potential Drawbacks |
3 months in advance | - Best seat selection - Potentially lower prices - Time to plan travel | - Funds tied up for longer - Risk of schedule changes |
1 month in advance | - Good seat options still available - Time to plan travel | - Some premium seats may be gone - Prices may have increased |
1 week in advance | - Possible last-minute deals - Flexibility for spontaneous trips | - Limited seat options - Risk of sell-outs - Higher prices for popular games |
Day of the game | - Potential for very low prices from desperate sellers | - High risk of no availability - Limited time to plan travel |
Supply and Demand Dynamics
The law of supply and demand plays a crucial role in determining ticket prices and availability. Consider these factors:
- Team Performance: Tickets for matches involving top-performing teams or those competing for titles tend to be in higher demand and may command premium prices. For example, a match between two title contenders near the end of the season could see ticket prices skyrocket.
- Match Significance: High-stakes games, such as local derbies or matches with playoff implications, often see increased demand and higher prices. The historic rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool, for instance, always generates high ticket demand regardless of the teams' current form.
- Stadium Capacity: The size of the away section in the host stadium can impact ticket availability and pricing. Smaller stadiums or those with limited away sections may lead to higher prices due to scarcity.
- Star Players: The presence of high-profile players can drive up demand and prices. For example, when Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Manchester United, ticket prices for their matches saw a significant increase.
- European Competition Qualification: Teams that qualify for European competitions like the Champions League or Europa League may see increased demand for their domestic league tickets as well.
To better understand these dynamics, consider the following example of how ticket prices might vary for a mid-table team playing different opponents:
Opponent Type | Estimated Price Range | Demand Level |
Title Contender | 150% - 200% of face value | Very High |
Local Rival | 175% - 250% of face value | Extremely High |
Relegation Battler | 75% - 125% of face value | Moderate |
Mid-table Team | 100% - 150% of face value | Average |
These figures are illustrative and can vary significantly based on specific circumstances.
Official Club Websites and Membership Options
Before exploring third-party platforms, it's essential to check the official club websites for ticket availability and membership options. Many clubs offer:
- Priority Access: Club members or season ticket holders may have early access to away game tickets. This tiered system often looks like:
- Season Ticket Holders
- Official Members with high loyalty points
- Official Members with lower loyalty points
- General sale (if any tickets remain)
- Loyalty Programs: Some clubs have loyalty point systems that reward regular attendees with better chances of securing away tickets. For example:
- Points earned for attending home and away games
- Additional points for long-distance away games
- Bonus points for cup matches or less popular fixtures
- Away Ticket Schemes: Certain clubs offer dedicated away ticket schemes that provide members with guaranteed access to a set number of away matches per season. These schemes might include:
- Automatic allocation for all away Premier League games
- Option to opt-out of specific games
- Credit/debit system for unused tickets
- Ballot Systems: For high-demand games, clubs may use a ballot (lottery) system to allocate tickets fairly among eligible members.
- Away Season Tickets: Some clubs offer away season tickets that guarantee holders access to all away league games for the season.
Seat Location and View
When selecting tickets, consider the following aspects related to seat location:
- Distance from the Pitch: Seats closer to the field generally offer a better view but may come at a higher price. Consider your preferences:
- Close to the action: Great for experiencing the intensity of the game
- Midfield: Offers a balanced view of the entire pitch
- Higher up: Provides a tactical overview of the game
- Away Section: Ensure that you're purchasing tickets in the designated away section to enjoy the game alongside fellow supporters. Away sections are typically located:
- In a corner of the stadium
- Behind one of the goals
- In an upper tier for larger allocations
- Obstructed Views: Be aware of any potential obstructions, such as pillars or overhangs, that may impact your view of the match. Always check seating charts and read any warnings about restricted views.
- Proximity to Home Fans: In some stadiums, away fans may be seated close to home supporters. If this is a concern, look for seats deeper within the away section.
- Weather Considerations: For open stadiums, consider whether certain seats offer better protection from sun, rain, or wind.
To help visualize the trade-offs, here's a general guide to seat locations:
Seat Location | Pros | Cons |
Lower Tier, Close to Pitch | - Immersive experience - Great for hearing player/manager interactions | - Limited overall view - May miss action on far side of pitch |
Mid-Tier, Midfield | - Balanced view of entire pitch - Good for tactical analysis | - Less immersive atmosphere - Often more expensive |
Upper Tier | - Comprehensive view of formations and tactics - Often cheaper | - Further from the action - Atmosphere may be less intense |
Behind the Goal | - Great for viewing attacks towards your end - Often where most vocal fans are located | - Difficult to see action at opposite end - May have obstructed view of corners |
Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in seat selection. Some fans prefer to be close to the action, while others enjoy a more panoramic view of the game.
Additional Costs
Remember to factor in additional costs associated with attending an away game:
- Travel Expenses: Consider the cost of transportation to and from the away stadium. This may include:
- Train or bus tickets
- Fuel costs if driving
- Parking fees
- Flights for long-distance games
- Accommodation: If the match requires an overnight stay, factor in hotel or lodging expenses. Consider:
- Hotels near the stadium (convenient but often more expensive)
- Budget options further from the venue
- Hostels or shared accommodations for more affordable options
- Food and Beverages: Budget for meals and refreshments before, during, and after the game. This might include:
- Pre-match meals or drinks
- Snacks and drinks at the stadium (often overpriced)
- Post-match celebrations or commiserations
- Merchandise: Many fans like to purchase souvenirs or club merchandise at away games. Set a budget for these items if interested.
- Local Transportation: Budget for taxis, public transport, or ride-sharing services at your destination.
To help you budget, here's a sample breakdown of potential costs for a typical away game:
Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
Match Ticket | £30 - £500 |
Travel (e.g., train ticket) | £20 - £100 |
Accommodation (if needed) | £50 - £150 |
Food and Drinks | £20 - £50 |
Local Transport | £10 - £30 |
Merchandise/Souvenirs | £0 - £50 |
Miscellaneous | £10 - £30 |
Total | £140 - £1010 |
These figures are illustrative and can vary significantly based on the specific match, location, and your personal choices.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make more informed decisions when purchasing tickets for away games and enhance your overall experience as a visiting supporter. Remember, attending away games is about more than just the match itself – it's an opportunity to explore new places, meet fellow fans, and create lasting memories.
10 Tips for Buying Affordable Football Tickets
While attending away games can be an exciting experience, it can also be costly. Here are some detailed tips to help you find more affordable football tickets:
1. Be Flexible with Match Selection
Consider attending matches against less popular opponents or during non-peak times of the season. These games often have lower demand and more reasonable ticket prices.
Strategy:
- Look for midweek fixtures, which are typically less popular than weekend games.
- Consider matches against newly promoted teams or those lower in the league table.
- Be open to attending cup matches, which can offer good value, especially in early rounds.
Example: A midweek game against a mid-table team might cost 30-40% less than a weekend match against a top-four club.
2. Explore Package Deals
VisitFootball offers football trip package deals that include:
- Match tickets
- Transportation
- Accommodation
These packages can sometimes provide better value than purchasing each component separately.
Benefits of Package Deals:
- Convenience of having everything arranged
- Potential cost savings
- Often includes extras like stadium tours or meet-and-greets
- Can provide access to tickets that might be hard to get individually
3. Sign Up for Email Notifications
Subscribe to VisitFootball.com's email notifications to receive updates on:
- Fixture releases
- Ticket availability
- Special promotions or discounts
Being among the first to know about ticket sales can increase your chances of securing affordable options.
4. Consider Group Tickets Purchases
Some clubs or ticket providers offer discounts for group purchases. If you're traveling with friends or fellow supporters, explore group booking options to potentially save money.
Group Booking Benefits:
- Discounted ticket prices (often 10-20% off for groups of 10 or more)
- Simplified booking process
- Possibility of block seating for your group
5. Look for Early Bird Discounts
Some ticket providers offer early bird discounts for fans who purchase tickets well in advance of the match date.
Early Bird Discount Strategies:
- Set reminders for when tickets typically go on sale for your favorite team
- Be prepared to make quick decisions, as early bird offers often have limited availability
- Consider purchasing tickets for multiple games at once to maximize savings
6. Explore Secondary Market Options (with Caution)
While it's generally recommended to stick with official sources, reputable secondary market platforms can sometimes offer tickets at competitive prices. However, exercise caution and ensure the platform provides buyer protection.
Secondary Market Tips:
- Only use well-known, authorized resale platforms
- Check for buyer guarantees and refund policies
- Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true
- Compare prices across multiple platforms before purchasing
7. Monitor Social Media and Fan Forums
Follow official club accounts and fan forums on social media platforms. Sometimes, last-minute ticket releases or fan-to-fan exchanges are announced through these channels.
Social Media Monitoring Tips:
- Set up notifications for official club Twitter accounts
- Join Facebook groups dedicated to ticket exchanges for your club
- Follow fan influencers who often share ticket information
8. Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms
While VisitFootball.com is a reliable option, it's worth comparing prices across multiple authorized ticket providers to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Price Comparison Strategy:
- Check the official club website first
- Look at VisitFootball.com and other authorized resellers
- Consider secondary market prices (with caution)
- Don't forget to factor in any additional fees or charges
9. Consider Less Popular Fixtures
While big matches are exciting, attending less high-profile games can offer significant savings.
Benefits of Less Popular Fixtures:
- Lower ticket prices
- Easier availability
- Often a more relaxed atmosphere
- Opportunity to see younger or fringe players
10. Be Prepared for Quick Action
Popular matches can sell out quickly, so be prepared to act fast when tickets become available.
Quick Purchase Tips:
- Have your payment information ready
- Create accounts on ticket platforms in advance
- Use multiple devices (computer, phone, tablet) to access ticket sites during high-demand sales
- Consider asking a friend to also try purchasing tickets to increase your chances
By implementing these strategies, you can increase your chances of finding more affordable tickets for away games without compromising on the quality of your football experience. Remember, persistence and flexibility are key when searching for the best deals on away game tickets.
Conclusion
Purchasing football tickets for away games can be an exciting yet challenging process. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can navigate the ticket-buying landscape with greater confidence and increase your chances of securing the best possible seats at reasonable prices.
Let's recap the key points discussed:
- Choose a Reliable Platform: VisitFootball.com stands out as a trustworthy and comprehensive option for purchasing away game tickets, offering unparalleled access to various leagues and competitions.
- Consider Timing and Demand: The timing of your purchase and the popularity of the match can significantly impact ticket availability and pricing. Be prepared to act quickly for high-demand games.
- Explore Official Channels: Always check official club websites for ticket availability and membership options that may provide priority access. These often offer the best value and authenticity guarantees.
- Factor in Additional Costs: Remember to consider travel, accommodation, and other expenses when budgeting for away games. The ticket price is just one part of the overall cost of attendance.
- Implement Money-Saving Strategies: Utilize tips such as being flexible with match selection, exploring package deals, and signing up for email notifications to find more affordable ticket options. Don't be afraid to consider less popular fixtures or midweek games for better deals.
- Be Cautious with Secondary Markets: While these can offer good deals, always prioritize authorized resellers and be wary of scams or inflated prices.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with club news, fixture announcements, and ticket sale dates through official channels and social media to never miss an opportunity.
- Plan Ahead: Early planning can often lead to better seats and prices, as well as more affordable travel and accommodation options.
- Embrace the Experience: Remember that attending away games is about more than just the match – it's an opportunity to explore new places, connect with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.
By keeping these factors in mind and utilizing platforms like VisitFootball.com, you can enhance your chances of securing tickets to the away games you've been dreaming of attending. Remember that while the process may require some effort and planning, the thrill of supporting your team in an away stadium makes it all worthwhile.
As you embark on your journey to experience away games, always prioritize purchasing from reliable sources to ensure the authenticity of your tickets and the safety of your personal information. With careful planning and the right approach, you'll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories as a traveling football supporter.
Finally, remember that the football community is vast and supportive. Don't hesitate to reach out to fellow fans for advice, join supporter groups, or participate in fan forums. These connections can not only provide valuable insights into ticket purchasing but also enhance your overall away game experience.
Whether you're a seasoned away game attendee or planning your first trip, the excitement of supporting your team on the road is unparalleled. So start planning, stay vigilant for opportunities, and get ready to be part of the passionate away support that makes football such a special sport. Your next great football adventure awaits!
Writing team
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