How to Earn Rewards & Points When Buying Event Tickets

What if your next concert ticket could help pay for your next vacation? Or score you VIP access? Whether you’re into stadium shows or intimate gigs, there’s a smarter way to buy. In this guide, I’ll show you how to earn points, perks, and cashback every time you grab event tickets.

Love going to concerts, Broadway shows, or sports games? You could be earning serious rewards with every ticket swipe. This guide breaks down how to stack points, perks, and even cashback on your event ticket purchases—without changing your habits. It’s not just spending—it’s strategic earning. Ready to work your wallet smarter?

Use a Rewards Credit Card Strategically

Before you even hit “Buy Tickets,” your card choice can make or break the payoff. Using a rewards credit card that aligns with entertainment purchases is the first—and easiest—step to get paid for your fun. Some cards give you 2x, 3x, even 4x the points just for doing what you were gonna do anyway.

Look for cards that focus on:

• Travel rewards: Ideal if you’re bundling events with trips—think Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve.
• Entertainment perks: Capital One Savor earns 4% back on entertainment—including concert tickets.
• Flat-rate cashback: Like the Citi Double Cash, perfect for no-brainer, anytime earnings.

Tiered category cards like the Amex Gold shine when you plan around bonus categories. But don’t sleep on flat-rate cards—they quietly stack up, especially if you’re not a planner.

One crucial warning: if you’re buying from an international ticket site (like a UK-based resale platform), foreign transaction fees can sneak up and cancel out your rewards. Choose a card with no foreign transaction fees if you’re looking abroad.

Basically? Your card is more than plastic. It’s a ticket to a smarter, richer ticket-buying experience.

Buy Through Cashback and Reward Portals

Cashback portals are like digital treasure maps—follow them right, and you’ll earn extra cash for something you were going to buy anyway. When it comes to scoring event tickets, using these portals is one of the simplest (and sneakiest) ways to turn your purchase into profit.

Start with these heavy hitters:

• Rakuten: Known for its wide network and easy PayPal payouts.
• TopCashback: Often offers slightly better rates than competitors.
• Capital One Shopping: Especially helpful if you already bank with them—integrates with your browser for real-time alerts.

How it works? It’s stupidly simple once you know the play:

• Visit the cashback site first (Rakuten, TopCashback, etc.)
• Search for your ticket retailer (Ticketmaster, StubHub, Vivid Seats)
• Click their link → shop like normal → checkout

That’s it. The portal tracks your visit with cookies and rewards you a percentage of your total purchase—usually between 1% and 10%. Sometimes even more during special promotions or fan presale events.

Now here’s the kicker: use your rewards credit card at checkout. That’s called double dipping. You’re earning cashback through the portal and points through your card. It’s the financial equivalent of a mic drop.

If you’re booking big—say, front row seats or VIP packages—you could be stacking a nice little bonus. Just don’t forget to turn off ad blockers and allow cookies, or the portal might not track your purchase. And trust me, nothing stings like missing out on free money.

Leverage Ticket Reseller Loyalty Programs

Want to turn your ticket habit into a loyalty goldmine? Don’t skip the resale platforms. Sites like Vivid Seats and StubHub don’t just sell tickets—they also reward you for being a repeat fan. It’s like a backstage pass to points, perks, and priority access.

Top loyalty programs to know:

• Vivid Seats Rewards: Earn 10 stamps for every ticket bought, and redeem 10 stamps for a Reward Credit. The more you buy, the better the benefits—like surprise seat upgrades and VIP entry offers.
• StubHub Fan Rewards: Offers exclusive access to discounted events and future ticket credits once you hit certain thresholds. Frequent users can unlock premium perks and first dibs on hot events.
• Ticketmaster Verified Fan: While not technically a rewards program, this system gives loyal fans early access to in-demand events (like Taylor Swift or BTS) and cuts out scalpers.

These programs often operate in tiers. For example, Vivid Seats has Rising Star, Super Fan, and Icon levels—each with growing benefits. Points usually accumulate per dollar spent, and some tiers even include multipliers. The more you spend, the faster you level up.

Perks can include:

• Early access to tickets before the general public
• Exclusive promo codes or members-only sales
• Priority seating or even occasional seat upgrades
• Fan gear or limited-edition merchandise

But it’s not all glitter and giveaways. Points can come with expiration dates, especially if you don’t make a purchase for several months. Redemption options might also be limited—some credits can only be used on specific categories or have minimum spend requirements.

Still, if you’re someone who hits a concert every couple of months or lives for game day, joining a loyalty program is a no-brainer. You’re spending the money anyway—might as well earn a little back.

Stack With Browser Extensions and Promo Codes

Think of this as your backstage hustle. While rewards cards and cashback portals are solid plays, browser extensions and promo codes are the secret sauce that can sweeten the deal even more—often without you lifting a finger. It’s digital couponing for the savvy ticket hunter.

Start with these browser sidekicks:

• Honey: Automatically tests and applies promo codes at checkout. Works well with StubHub, Vivid Seats, and even niche ticketing sites.
• Coupert: Another code-finder that also gives cashback on top. Sometimes it catches deals others miss.
• Capital One Shopping: Great for Capital One cardholders, but works with any browser. Finds better offers, price matches, and discount codes.

Promo codes don’t stop there. They pop up in:

• Email newsletters: Subscribe to Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and venue lists for fan-first codes.
• Influencer posts: Social media personalities often drop exclusive codes for shows, especially during presales.
• Fan forums: Reddit, Discord, and even X (formerly Twitter) are hotspots for shared discounts.

Want a real-world example of stacking magic? Let’s say you’re buying a pair of Harry Styles tickets on StubHub:

• Start at Rakuten and click through to StubHub (cashback in motion)
• At checkout, your Chase Sapphire card earns 2x points on entertainment
• Meanwhile, Honey scans and applies a $10 off promo code

That’s triple-dipping: cashback, rewards points, and a discount—all on one order. Multiply that over a few shows a year and boom—serious savings without sacrificing seat quality.

One tip? Run these extensions in incognito mode if you’re worried about tracking conflicts between portals. Otherwise, just let them work their quiet magic while you focus on the real goal: scoring unforgettable seats at a better price.

Buy Bundled Experiences with Travel or Hotel Rewards

If you’ve been hoarding credit card points or hotel loyalty rewards, it’s time to spend them on something unforgettable. Beyond flights and hotel stays, your rewards stash can unlock concert tickets, courtside seats, and even once-in-a-lifetime VIP experiences—all without spending actual cash.

Here are a few elite programs that turn points into memories:

• Amex Experiences: Exclusive access to presales, front-row seats, and VIP packages for concerts, Broadway shows, and more—often before the public even hears about them.
• Chase Experiences: Chase cardholders can use Ultimate Rewards points for ticketed events through “Chase Experiences,” offering perks like artist meet & greets, club-level seating, or dining packages.
• Marriott Bonvoy Moments: Turn hotel points into experience packages—think backstage tours, premium sports suites, or celebrity-hosted parties.
• Hilton Honors Experiences: Bid on exclusive access to concerts, F1 races, and red carpet events, all using your Hilton points. It’s high-rolling without the hefty out-of-pocket spend.

These aren’t your standard GA (general admission) tickets either. We’re talking the full fantasy—VIP lounges, soundcheck access, autographed swag, or even private pre-show dinners with the artist. Some packages even include hotel stays and travel arrangements, bundling everything into one luxury reward trip.

Bonus? Since you’re paying with points, it’s technically “free”—or at least guilt-free. Perfect for milestone moments like anniversaries, birthdays, or just treating yourself like the concert king or queen you are.

And yes, these go fast. Like, “blink and they’re gone” fast. So keep tabs on your favorite loyalty dashboards and sign up for experience alerts. You never know when your pile of points might turn into front-row magic.

Join Venue and Promoter Loyalty Programs

While most folks chase rewards from big-name cards and portals, savvy fans know the real gems often hide closer to the stage. Many local venues, promoters, and ticketing platforms offer their own loyalty programs—and they’re surprisingly generous considering they cost you nothing to join.

Check out these standout examples:

• Live Nation’s perks: Get early ticket access, exclusive pre-sales, and surprise seat upgrades. Some shows even offer special “Fan Packages” for members first.
• AXS Rewards: Occasional giveaways, fast-lane entry, and pre-sale codes tied directly to AXS ticketed events and festivals.
• MSG Insider: Madison Square Garden’s free insider club offers first dibs on hot concerts, sporting events, and even curated event recommendations.

These programs typically work through your email or ticketing account—no physical card, no points to track. But here’s the magic: they can land you in the room when everyone else is stuck refreshing for sold-out tickets. For high-demand events, early access can be the difference between front row and the parking lot.

Beyond pre-sales, some clubs throw in unexpected perks like:

• Invites to soundchecks or rehearsal viewings
• Discount codes for future shows
• Fan-only merch drops or giveaways

It’s not just about earning—it’s about getting closer to the action. Think of these programs as a backstage pass for loyal locals. And since they’re free to join, there’s no downside—only upside if you’re willing to check your inbox now and then.

Track Your Spending and Redeem Before Expiry

There’s nothing worse than watching your hard-earned points disappear into thin air just because you forgot they existed. Rewards aren’t forever—many come with sneaky expiration rules or minimum thresholds before you can cash in. If you’re not tracking your balances, you might be burning value without realizing it.

Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Use apps like AwardWallet or MaxRewards: These tools sync with your loyalty accounts, credit cards, and even hotel points. You’ll get alerts when points are about to expire or if new redemption options pop up.
• Set reminders: Some programs let you set goals—like “redeem when balance hits 2,000 points.” Others just need a nudge. Use calendar reminders or phone notifications to prompt monthly check-ins.
• Keep your accounts active: Even a small purchase or redemption can reset the clock on most programs. Don’t let inactivity be the reason your points vanish.

Once you’ve hit the magic number, don’t hoard unless you’ve got a plan. Many programs let you convert rewards into:

• Gift cards—great for last-minute gifts or splitting group ticket costs
• Travel credits—pair your concert with a hotel or flight deal
• Cash or statement credits—hello, guilt-free upgrade

Think of your rewards like a backstage pass—they’re only good if you use them. Waiting too long could mean losing out on a VIP experience you’ve already earned. So log in, track smart, and make your points work for you, not against you.

Don’t Overpay Just for Points

It’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of earning points, but don’t let the promise of rewards cloud your judgment. Points aren’t free if you’re paying more than you should. Sometimes, a cashback portal or loyalty site will quietly inflate the ticket price—and that 5% return suddenly isn’t such a bargain.

Here’s the golden rule: always compare the base ticket price before clicking through a rewards link.

Just because a portal promises 7% cashback doesn’t mean it’s the best deal. Some sellers mark up prices to offset those payouts. It’s a bit like buying overpriced popcorn at the movies—you’re still getting the snack, but your wallet feels it.

To stay sharp, use tools like:

• SeatGeek: Shows price comparisons across multiple platforms and includes a “Deal Score” to gauge ticket value.
• TickPick: No hidden fees at checkout—what you see is what you pay. Great for honest comparisons.

Cross-check your event across two or three sites. If the price difference outweighs the reward benefit, skip the points and take the cheaper ticket. It’s not about collecting the most rewards—it’s about making the smartest buy.

Bottom line? Don’t pay $20 extra to earn $5 in rewards. That’s backwards math. Let points be the cherry on top, not the reason you buy the cake.

Pro Tips from Ticket-Savvy Fans

Wanna level up your game like the pros do? These aren’t the basic “sign up and earn” kind of tips—this is how seasoned fans squeeze extra value out of every single transaction. Think of it as the street-smart strategy for stacking rewards without working harder—just smarter.

Split payments like a strategist: Some platforms—especially secondary marketplaces like Vivid Seats—allow you to use multiple payment methods at checkout. That means you can put part of your order on a travel rewards card and the rest on a high cashback card. Double the cards, double the benefits. Just check the fine print first—this option isn’t universal.

Buy discounted gift cards with a rewards card: Sites like Raise or CardCash sell gift cards for Ticketmaster, StubHub, and others at a discount. Pay for the card with your rewards credit card, then use the gift card to buy tickets. Boom—instant savings plus points. That’s a win-win wrapped in a clever loophole.

Organize group buys to accelerate points: Planning a night out for friends? Offer to buy everyone’s tickets upfront, then have them pay you back. You’ll earn points on the full amount, not just your share. For a big show, that could be a couple hundred bucks in your points balance—all without spending more than you usually would.

When it comes to rewards, every little trick adds up. These fan-tested hacks turn your everyday ticketing into a full-on rewards hustle. Think of them as the fan equivalent of backstage passes to smarter spending.

What to Avoid (Common Mistakes)

Even the best rewards strategy can crash and burn if you fall into a few common traps. These slip-ups don’t just cost you points—they can cost you real money, missed events, and a whole lot of regret. Let’s break down the biggest mistakes ticket buyers make when chasing perks.

1. Buying from unauthorized sites
You spot a deal that’s “too good to be true”… and guess what? It probably is. Sketchy resale platforms and scam sites might lure you with low prices, but they often don’t qualify for rewards—and worse, they might sell fake tickets. No points, no event, and no refund. Stick with verified sellers like Ticketmaster, StubHub, Vivid Seats, or trusted marketplaces linked through cashback portals. If the site looks like it was built in 2005 and doesn’t take PayPal? Run.

2. Forgetting to activate cashback portals
This one stings. You go through all the steps, buy your tickets, and then… you realize you forgot to click through Rakuten or TopCashback first. No click = no cookie = no rewards. Always start at the portal, not the ticket site. Better yet, install the browser extension—it’ll nudge you before you check out. One forgotten click can mean losing $10, $20, or more in cashback.

3. Letting your points expire unused
Rewards programs love it when you forget they exist. Many points have expiration dates—some after 12 months of inactivity, others after a fixed timeline. If you’re not tracking your accounts, your points might quietly vanish. Set reminders, use apps like AwardWallet, or schedule a quarterly check-in to redeem. Even small redemptions can reset the clock.

Final word? Earning rewards is easy. Losing them is even easier. Keep your eyes open, know the rules, and don’t let simple mistakes wipe out the perks you’ve worked for.

Conclusion: Turn Every Ticket Into a Perk

Buying event tickets doesn’t have to be a pure splurge—it can be a low-key investment in your next big perk. Every concert, every Broadway night, every game you attend is a chance to earn points, cashback, or exclusive rewards. Why let that value slip through your fingers?

The trick? Layer your strategy. Use a rewards credit card to rack up points. Go through a cashback portal for extra earnings. Join loyalty programs with resellers, venues, and promoters. Then sprinkle in browser extensions and discount codes for good measure. It’s like building a cake—every layer makes it sweeter.

When you stack these small advantages, the payoff grows fast. One show might get you a free Starbucks card. A few nights out could cover a hotel stay. And with the right moves, a dream VIP experience isn’t just possible—it’s practically waiting for you to cash in.

So the next time you’re snagging tickets to a sold-out show, don’t just think about the price. Think about the points. Make your fun nights work a little harder—and let the good times pay you back.