Going to a ball game is one of the most exciting things you can do both as a family and as an individual. Whether you are attending a professional baseball game or your kid’s soccer game, it can, however, be rather expensive. The expenses at a ball game can often be offset by planning ahead.
Here are some tips for being frugal at the ball park and keeping your focus on the game instead of your wallet or purse:
Order your tickets ahead of game day
The last thing you want to do is to buy your tickets at the gate. You will always spend more than if you buy them ahead of time online or through a merchant. Games are often discounted when you buy them ahead of time. Reap the benefits!
Be picky about the game you choose
Sometimes people go to whatever game they can get tickets for and this will minimize the fun you have. Instead, look ahead on the schedule and find the game that really interests you. Having that extra impetus will help you to enjoy the game more and also will allow you time to find the best deal.
Never show up to a ball game hungry
The worst thing in the world is to have a hungry kid standing at one of their concession stands. Hot dogs and other horrible for you foods are going to cost you an arm and leg. Eat before you come or ask about bringing your own food. A large number of stadiums will allow you to bring food if it passes certain rules.
Buy your trinkets elsewhere
If you really want a jersey, hat or pennant for memories sake, you need to buy it online rather than at the merchandise stands in the stadium. The mark up on these things are unbelievable.
Consider buying MLB Merchandise from Amazon instead! How about an awesome MLB hat for the ball game?
Look for promotional games
Many professional teams will hold promotions with incredible prizes and products free at the door. This can save you a ton of cash if you plan ahead and be sure to be in on the fun. Bobble heads, programs, hats, jerseys and even free tickets to future games are often given away. Monitoring the teams is a wonderful way to catch these deals throughout the season.
Harness the power of social media
If you want to find tickets to a game, putting in a search in various social media circles can often lead you to massive savings. Facebook, Twitter and even Craigslist can bring you some pretty awesome deals if you are willing to do the legwork.
Check with local hotels and motels
If the game is going to be out of town, hotels and motels will often run package deals. If you can roll the cost of lodging, tickets and transportation all into one, you can really save some cash.
Being frugal at the ball park is not all that tough, but it does require that you put in the time and effort to look into things. Spend some time planning ahead and you will have a phenomenal time at the ball park. Even better, you will be able to afford to go back time and time again.
Did you enjoy this post? Find more money saving tips here.
Tickets from third party sites, such as Craiglist or Facebook are not guaranteed entry. In some cases these tickets are not valid and the purchaser has no form of recourse. What may have appeared as a great deal initially may be a big loss in the end.
I really like the idea of purchasing merchandise prior to the game. Game day souvenirs are ridiculously expensive. Also, you can wear your new gear to support your team.