The excitement of watching your favorite sports team in person is hard to beat, but game-day prices can be brutal on a budget. Tickets, parking, food, drinks and gear add up quickly – especially if it’s an outing for the whole family.
Here’s how to be in the thick of the action without penalizing your savings account:
Choose lower-priced games. Top-of-the-conference teams and popular weekend games may command higher prices from ticket sellers and resellers. Consider weaker opponents or weeknight matches – rooting for your team may come at a savings.
Pick seats farther from play. Even if you can’t swing courtside or 50-yard seats, you can still soak up a game’s ambiance. Seats behind the goals or further from play can cost significantly less, making it possible for the whole family to attend.
Hold out for deals. Be flexible and wait to buy tickets on game day, when unsold seats and seats held for visiting fans may be released. Reputable third-party sellers may also be willing to unload tickets for less rather than not at all. You may wind up paying based on the demand for tickets but there is also a chance to score great deals.
Tailgate before the game. Avoid high-priced arena food and drink by loading up before the game at a tailgate. Remember to arrive early to score a spot in the lot.
Save on parking costs. If you’re not tailgating, consider cheaper ways to travel. Parking is most expensive at an arena, so park further away and walk. Or, avoid driving and take public transportation.
Buy gear in advance. Many big-box retailers sell hometown fan gear and often run promotions. Stock up at sale prices rather than paying a premium at the venue.
With a little planning and some flexibility, it’s possible mark the ‘w’ column for your financial goals on game day. For more tips on how to live well no matter your budget, visit
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