As Ticketmaster has become one of the primary ways that people purchase tickets for concerts, sports events, and other live events, many people wonder if they can increase their chances of getting tickets by joining multiple virtual queues at the same time. The short answer is yes, it is possible to be in more than one Ticketmaster queue simultaneously for different events. However, there are some important factors to keep in mind.
How Ticketmaster’s Virtual Queuing System Works
When tickets go on sale for a high-demand event on Ticketmaster, the website often employs a virtual queuing system rather than allowing all users to access tickets right away. This prevents Ticketmaster’s servers from crashing due to too much traffic.
With virtual queuing, users are assigned a random place in line when they click to purchase tickets. They are then able to browse Ticketmaster normally while waiting for their turn to access the tickets. Users can see what place they are in the queue and estimate the wait time.
Once a user reaches the front of the line, they have a limited amount of time (usually around 5 minutes) to enter the event page and complete their purchase. If the time expires, they lose their place in line and have to start over.
Joining Multiple Queues
Since each queue is attached to a specific event, it is entirely possible to join different queues for multiple events at the same time on Ticketmaster. The virtual waiting rooms operate independently from one another.
For example, if you want tickets to a concert happening in October and a sporting event happening in November, you can queue up for tickets to both events simultaneously when they go on sale. You will have a place in line and a wait time for each queue.
The only limitation is that you can only be in one queue at a time for the same event. Ticketmaster’s system prevents users from having multiple spots in line for a single event.
Tips for Joining Multiple Queues
Here are some tips to maximize your chances if you want to be in more than one Ticketmaster queue at the same time:
Use different browsers
Open each queue in a different internet browser, like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. This prevents any issues with the queues conflicting with one another. Ticketmaster uses browser cookies to remember your place in line, so separate browsers will keep the queues separate.
Stay engaged in each queue
Don’t just join the queues and walk away! Make sure to stay engaged with each browser window so that you can move through the queue and complete your purchase within the time limit once you reach the front. Set alarms for the estimated wait times so you know when to be ready.
Check for queue position frequently
Especially as you get closer to the front, check your position in the virtual line frequently. Estimated wait times aren’t always accurate, so you want to make sure you are ready as soon as you reach #1. Don’t lose your spot!
Have payment information handy
When purchasing through multiple queues, make sure you have all payment information on hand for a smooth checkout process. You don’t want to waste time entering payment details and risk the short purchase window expiring.
Use a fast, stable internet connection
To avoid any unnecessary technical delays, use a strong Wifi or ethernet internet connection when managing multiple Ticketmaster queues. Slow or unstable internet could cause you to lose your spot in line.
Understand ticket limits
Make sure you know the ticket purchase limit for each event you are queueing up for and that joining multiple queues won’t allow you to exceed the set limits. Ticketmaster’s system prevents users from purchasing an excess number of tickets.
The Benefits of Multiple Queues
Assuming Ticketmaster allows it for a particular event, there are some potential benefits to joining multiple virtual queues:
- Increased chances of getting tickets – You have multiple opportunities to purchase tickets rather than just one.
- Flexibility – You don’t have to pick between events and can queue for tickets to multiple events you want to attend.
- Backup plan – If you miss out on tickets for your top choice event, you still have a chance at your second choice event.
- More options – You can wait in multiple queues to give yourself options for seating locations, ticket prices, dates, etc.
Risks of Multiple Queues
There are also some risks to keep in mind with trying to manage multiple queues:
- Missing the purchase window – Juggling multiple queues increases the chance of missing your spot to purchase tickets for one event while occupied with another queue.
- Technical issues – Browser errors or internet instability could ruin your chances if affecting one queue.
- Incorrect information – Having multiple tabs open could lead to confusion about your position in each queue.
- Queue collisions – There is a very small chance that the timing of multiple queues could overlap and cause issues.
- Exceeding ticket limits – Make sure joining multiple queues won’t allow you to purchase an excess number of tickets and cancel one or more orders.
Joining Multiple Queues on Mobile
It is possible to join multiple Ticketmaster queues on a mobile device, but it can be more challenging than on a desktop computer. Here are some tips for joining multiple queues on mobile:
- Use desktop mode – Access each queue using the desktop site for Ticketmaster rather than the mobile site or app.
- Open different browsers – Open queues in multiple browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox etc. Tabs in a single browser will conflict.
- Connect to Wifi – For a stable connection, avoid relying on mobile data. Connect your device to a strong Wifi network.
- Stay in the app – Don’t switch between other apps or lock your device when waiting in the queues. Continuously monitor your position.
- Charge your battery – Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in so that it doesn’t die while queueing.
- Avoid other activities – Don’t try to multitask and do other things on your device. Focus just on monitoring the queues.
In general, joining multiple queues works better on a desktop than mobile device. But with preparation, it can be accomplished on mobile as well.
Policies Around Multiple Queues
Always check the event or venue policies on Ticketmaster before attempting to join multiple queues. While Ticketmaster’s system may allow it, some specific events prohibit queueing for tickets to multiple shows at once. This prevents unfair advantages and allows more fans to get tickets.
For popular shows that tend to sell out instantly, there are often stricter policies. The queues may operate as lotteries rather than a traditional line format. There could also be limitations on how many total tickets you can buy across multiple events.
Carefully read and understand the policies for each event before spending time in multiple queues. You want to avoid cancellations or other penalties.
Conclusion
In most cases, Ticketmaster’s virtual queuing system does allow users to join multiple queues for different events simultaneously. This can maximize your ticket purchasing options for highly anticipated shows. However, splitting your focus between multiple queues also has its challenges. Be prepared, patient and attentive when managing multiple queues. Understand any event policies around queueing practices as well. With smart strategy, joining multiple Ticketmaster queues can help music and sports fans access more exclusive tickets.
