Going to concerts can be an exhilarating experience. Seeing your favorite musicians perform live often creates lifelong memories. However, before you can enjoy the show, you need to purchase tickets. With so many options for buying tickets and making payments today, the process can get confusing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps so you can easily buy concert tickets and make payments.
Where to Buy Concert Tickets
There are several places you can purchase concert tickets. Here are some of the most common options:
- Official Artist or Venue Website – Most musicians and concert venues sell tickets directly through their official websites. This is often the best place to purchase tickets since you are buying them directly from the source.
- Ticket Resale Websites – Websites like StubHub and Vivid Seats allow users to resell tickets they have already purchased. This gives you access to tickets even when the primary source is sold out.
- Ticket Aggregators – Aggregator sites like Ticketmaster and AXS allow you to purchase tickets from a variety of sources in one place. They often have exclusive deals or presales as well.
- Box Office – You can always purchase tickets directly from the box office at the venue where the concert will be held. There are usually no extra fees when you buy directly.
- Retailers – Some retailers like Walmart or pharmacy chains may sell concert tickets in store. This option is less common today but can be convenient if you want to purchase tickets in person.
Each option has its own pros and cons. Official websites or box offices are usually best to avoid extra fees. Resale and retail sites offer more flexibility and convenience. Be sure to compare all your options to find the ideal ticketing source for each concert.
How to Buy Tickets
Once you decide where to purchase tickets, here are the typical steps to complete your order:
- Find Available Tickets – Use the site’s search tools to find the event you want and check ticket availability. Make sure to select the right date, venue, and quantity of tickets.
- Select Ticket Type – Most concerts offer different ticket tiers or options. Common types include general admission, reserved/seated tickets, VIP, or platinum. Select the option that best fits your needs and budget.
- Enter Billing Info – When you’re ready to checkout, you’ll need to enter your payment method and billing information. Make sure all info is accurate.
- Final Review – Carefully review your order for details like date, venue, ticket type, quantities, and total cost before submitting.
- Submit Order – After verifying all the details in your order, complete the transaction by clicking purchase, submit, or whatever option the website provides.
- Get Confirmation – Print or screenshot the confirmation page that shows your order was successfully placed and ticket purchases are complete.
Follow these steps regardless of which website or platform you use to buy tickets. The process should be straightforward but don’t hesitate to contact customer service if you have any questions or issues.
Tips for Buying Concert Tickets
Use these handy tips to help find and purchase the perfect concert tickets:
- Buy early – Purchase as soon as tickets go on sale to get the best deals before they sell out.
- Check presales – Many sites offer presales a few days before the general sale for members or loyal customers.
- Join fan clubs – Musician fan clubs often give members access to presales and VIP ticket options.
- Compare prices – Check multiple sources to find the best ticket prices for each event.
- Beware resale markups – Resale sites charge higher prices so only use them if needed.
- Read the fine print – Before you buy, read all policies, fees, and ticket guarantees.
- Check seat views – If purchasing reserved seating, use seat view tools to confirm good sightlines.
- Use promo codes – Look for special promo codes that may give you access to cheaper ticket prices.
Advance planning and smart shopping will help you snag the best seats at face value prices. Avoid the last minute scramble by following these concert ticket buying tips whenever possible.
Payment Options for Concert Tickets
When it comes time to pay for your tickets, you’ll have several payment methods to choose from. Common options include:
- Credit Card – The most popular payment method. Accepted everywhere. Provides fraud protection.
- Debit Card – Works the same as a credit card. Draws cash directly from your checking account.
- Mobile Wallet – Digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, or PayPal. Requires app download.
- Gift Card – Redeem a retailer gift card if the merchant sells them.
- Cryptocurrency – Some sites may allow payment via Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other cryptocoins.
- Cash – Only an option when buying directly at a venue box office.
Credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets generally provide the easiest and most secure way to pay. Make sure to only use payment sources in your own name when purchasing tickets.
Tips for Payment Security
To keep your financial information secure when buying concert tickets online, follow these tips:
- Stick to official ticketing sites and avoid unofficial resale platforms.
- Only enter payment details at secure checkout pages that start with HTTPS.
- Check for the lock symbol in the address bar confirming site security.
- Use a credit card when possible since it offers stronger fraud protection.
- Never photograph or email your credit card – enter it directly on ticketing sites.
- Save your payment methods securely on ticketing site accounts.
- Monitor your credit card statements and report any unauthorized charges.
As long as you follow best practices for online security, you can pay for concert tickets confidently knowing your information stays protected. Contact your credit card company right away if you ever suspect fraudulent activity.
Finalizing Your Ticket Purchase
Once you complete your ticket order and receive confirmation, there are a few final steps to finish the purchase process:
- Get your tickets – Have your tickets delivered via email, mail, or an app. Print them or download to your phone.
- Review venue policies – Check rules on entry, bags, cameras, vaccines, etc. so you can comply.
- Add event to calendar – Log the concert date and location in your calendar app and set reminders.
- Decide on transportation – Make plans for how you will travel to and from the concert venue.
- Watch for updates – Check your email and concert info periodically for any schedule changes or updates.
- Get excited – You’ve got your tickets, so look forward to an amazing concert experience.
Completing these final tasks will ensure you are fully prepared when it’s finally time to head to the big show. Enjoy the thrill of seeing your favorite musician perform live after following our detailed guide to purchasing concert tickets and making payments.
Conclusion
Concert ticket buying doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding where to purchase tickets, how the ordering process works, what payment methods you can use, and implementing online security best practices, you can easily obtain tickets for any show you want to attend. Do your research ahead of time, compare all options, and move quickly when tickets go on sale. Follow our guide and you’ll secure amazing concert seats in no time. The only thing left is enjoying the live sounds and excitement when the lights finally go down.