Whether heading to a concert, attending a game, or taking a flight out of town, one must have a valid ticket. With an increasing demand for tickets for almost everything, there’s a perceived sense of urgency when making the final booking. This urgency causes people to make mistakes that cost them a lot of money and lead to major inconvenience. That’s why it’s important to be cautious and think twice before booking tickets.

Forgetting to check the seller/reseller’s authenticity
One of the first things to do when buying a ticket is to check the seller’s and the ticket’s authenticity. One way to do this is to take a close look at the ticket. Individuals should buy tickets that specify the row, seat, and block details. Looking for customer reviews and ratings on the website and third-party platforms is also important. Although time-consuming, it helps verify the seller’s authenticity and avoid scams.

Buying at online marketplaces
Many buy tickets from online marketplaces. While this has become a growing trend, it can be a huge mistake. Some sellers upload photos of the tickets as evidence, with the barcode/QR code showing. This allows scammers to replicate the tickets, resulting in lost money and frustration for both the seller and the buyer.

Wiring money through a third-party service
Another major mistake people make is wiring money through a third-party service. Once gone, it’s unlikely that the buyer will ever see this money again, even in the case of a cancellation. Other payment red flags to watch out for include:

• Being redirected to another domain (other than a verified and secure payment site)
• Spelling errors, complicated navigation, or broken links and images
• Questionable advertising
• Requests for unnecessary personal or financial information

Wrong name on the ticket
Tickets are customized with the buyer’s name for certain events. If one’s ticket has the wrong name, a spelling error, or a maiden name that does not match their legal documentation, they could be denied entry. Event managers take such measures to beef up security and prevent access to unauthorized persons. That’s why individuals must check the details entered thoroughly before buying tickets and cross-verify them later to avoid confusion with the authorities.