2026-05-14T06:31:00
(BPT) – Key takeaways
- Scoring seats to watch your favorite football team play doesn’t have to break the bank.
- Simple tips like choosing the right games, using deal-finding apps, taking advantage of rewards programs, and planning for game-day expenses can help you have a great time on a budget.
- You can visit sites or apps like Vivid Seats to find NFL football tickets at some of the lowest prices.
Fans across the country are gearing up for football season! If you’re one of them, it’s time to start planning which games you’ll attend in person, picking your seats and finding your fan gear so you can cheer your team on to victory.
As you plan your game day, think about ways you can save on your day out. To help get you started, check out these four expert tips that can help you have a great time at the stadium without breaking the bank.
Choosing the right games for value
The game you choose can make a huge difference in ticket prices.
Primetime matchups, particularly those played on Thursday and Monday nights, often come with a premium price tag for fans. Data suggests that opting for a Sunday game can offer meaningful savings. On average, tickets for Sunday matchups are about 6% cheaper than Monday Night Football games and around 4% cheaper than Thursday Night Football games, making them a more budget-friendly choice for fans looking to cut costs.
Also, consider looking beyond marquee matchups, games featuring popular or high-performing teams and players. Instead, buy tickets for games featuring lower-ranked teams, which are often more affordable. No matter the matchup, you’re guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it’s all about.
Buy tickets from deal-finding apps
Not all ticket sites or apps offer the same ticket prices or customer service experience. Look for affordable tickets to see your favorite NFL teams on apps like Vivid Seats.
Bought your tickets and then thought you found better prices somewhere else? Don’t worry. If you bought tickets on the Vivid Seats app, you can take advantage of its in-app Lowest Price Guarantee*. If you spot the same NFL ticket for less on a qualifying competitor site, Vivid Seats will match the price.
Always make sure you are buying from a trusted source. Look for third-party credentials to confirm that the site is legitimate and a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). When you purchase a ticket from a trusted brand like Vivid Seats, you can count on transparent ticket prices thanks to its all-in pricing model, which shows the full ticket price, including all fees, up front. That means the price you see when choosing your seats will be the same price you’ll see at checkout, no surprises, so you can choose seats that best match your budget.
If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.
Using rewards to offset costs
Just like you would for hotels and flights, don’t forget to look into loyalty and rewards programs. If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.
For example, the Vivid Seats Rewards program allows football fans to earn rewards on every purchase, which they can redeem for free tickets, while also getting surprise seat upgrades and other game-day exclusives.
Budgeting tips beyond tickets
Ticket prices aren’t the only expenses you need to budget for when going out to a football game. Costs like parking and concessions can quickly add up, especially when you’re going out as a group or family.
A simple way to save on parking can be to purchase or reserve a spot ahead of time to avoid day-of prices. Not only can you save on parking at or around the stadium, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to waste time looking for a spot, and you can look at options like tailgates to make the most of your game day visit. You can also research whether the stadium offers a park-and-ride service that will drop you off right in front of the gates. Many of the apps and sites you use to find tickets can also help you find affordable parking options.
Stadium concessions can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that many stadiums offer discounts and value meals, so you can enjoy a drink or two and a hot dog while staying on budget.
Ready to kick off an affordable football season?
Cheering on your favorite football team doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using these four tips, you can enjoy watching live football and save some money while you’re at it. To learn more about ticket pricing and find games for your favorite football teams, visit VividSeats.com/NFL.
*Submit claim within 1 hour to get 115% of the price difference as a Vivid Seats credit. Valid only on comparable tickets at eligible marketplaces. Limit $200 Vivid Seats credit per claim; 2 claims per year. Additional restrictions and terms apply. See full terms.
