Buy Tickets In Person
One of the most effective ways to avoid Ticketmaster fees is to buy your tickets in person. By purchasing tickets at the box office, you can avoid online fees altogether. This is especially helpful if you’re buying tickets for a large group or multiple events.
Use Presale Codes
Another way to avoid Ticketmaster fees is to use presale codes. Many events offer presale access to fans who sign up for the artist’s or team’s newsletter. This allows you to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the general public, often at a reduced price and with lower fees.
Use Other Ticketing Sites
While Ticketmaster is one of the largest and most well-known ticketing sites, there are other options available. Sites like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats offer tickets to many of the same events, often with lower fees. Be sure to compare prices and fees before purchasing.
Buy Directly from the Venue
In some cases, you may be able to purchase tickets directly from the venue. This is often the case for smaller events or local venues. By purchasing directly from the venue, you can avoid Ticketmaster fees entirely.
Join Fan Clubs and Loyalty Programs
Many artists and teams offer fan clubs and loyalty programs that provide exclusive access to tickets and events. By joining these programs, you may be able to purchase tickets at a reduced price and with lower fees.
Buy Tickets Early
Ticket prices and fees often increase as the event date approaches. By purchasing tickets early, you can often lock in a lower price and avoid higher fees. This is especially helpful for popular events that are likely to sell out.
Use Cash for In-Person Purchases
If you do decide to purchase tickets in person, using cash can sometimes help you avoid fees. Some venues may charge additional fees for credit card transactions, so paying with cash can save you money.
Buy Tickets in Bulk
If you’re purchasing tickets for a group or multiple events, buying in bulk can sometimes help you avoid fees. Some ticketing sites offer discounts for bulk purchases, which can help offset the fees.
FAQs
What are Ticketmaster fees?
Ticketmaster fees are additional charges added to the ticket price when purchasing through the Ticketmaster website or app. These fees can include service fees, delivery fees, and processing fees.
Why are Ticketmaster fees so high?
Ticketmaster fees are often high because the company has a near-monopoly on ticket sales for many events. This allows them to charge higher fees without fear of losing customers to competitors.
Can I avoid Ticketmaster fees entirely?
While it may not always be possible to avoid Ticketmaster fees entirely, there are ways to reduce them. Buying tickets in person, using presale codes, and purchasing directly from the venue are all effective ways to avoid or reduce fees.
Are there other ticketing sites I can use?
Yes, there are many other ticketing sites available, including StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats. These sites often offer tickets to the same events as Ticketmaster, and may have lower fees.
Can I get a refund on Ticketmaster fees?
Ticketmaster fees are generally non-refundable, even if you decide not to attend the event. However, some venues or events may offer refunds or exchanges for tickets purchased through Ticketmaster.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster fees can be frustrating, but there are ways to avoid or reduce them. By purchasing tickets in person, using presale codes, and exploring other ticketing sites, you can save money on your tickets and enjoy your favorite events without breaking the bank.