Should I Buy Tickets Through Viagogo?
For many people who enjoy attending concerts, sporting events and other live events, the decision on which website or platform to use to buy tickets can be challenging. While there are many ticket resale websites available, one of the most popular options is Viagogo. But is it the best platform for buying tickets? In this article, we explore the ins and outs of Viagogo and how it stacks up against other ticketing sites.
What is Viagogo?
Viagogo is a ticket resale platform that allows buyers to purchase tickets from other individuals who no longer need or want them. Viagogo is not an official ticket vendor – instead, it provides a platform for buying and selling tickets online. The platform operates globally and has been in business since 2006.
What Makes Viagogo Popular?
One reason that Viagogo has become so popular is because the platform allows people to buy and sell tickets to sold-out events. In some instances, tickets are sold at a premium, but for some fans, the opportunity to attend an event they otherwise may not have been able to is well worth the extra cost. Viagogo also allows sellers to set their price, which can create competitive pricing for buyers.
Issues with Viagogo
Despite its popularity, there have been issues with Viagogo in the past. One of the most significant complaints about Viagogo is that the platform allows sellers to set their own prices, making it difficult to determine the true value of a ticket. This has led to instances of sellers charging exorbitant amounts for tickets, which can make events inaccessible for some people. Another concern is that Viagogo has been known to charge high fees, which can add significantly to the overall cost of the ticket.
Alternatives to Viagogo
If you are considering buying tickets for an event but are unsure about using Viagogo, there are several alternatives you can explore. Some of the most popular ticket resale platforms include StubHub, SeatGeek, and Ticketmaster Resale. These platforms offer similar services to Viagogo, but with different fee structures and pricing models.
StubHub
One of the most popular ticket resale platforms is StubHub. Like Viagogo, StubHub allows sellers to set prices for their tickets, but they also offer a price recommendation tool that makes it easy for buyers to understand what a fair price for a ticket might be. StubHub also offers a fan guarantee, which ensures that you will receive valid tickets for the event you are attending.
SeatGeek
SeatGeek is another option for those looking to buy or sell tickets. One of the unique features of SeatGeek is that they provide a “Deal Score” for each ticket, which helps buyers understand if they are getting a good value for their purchase. SeatGeek also offers a 100% guarantee that ensures that tickets purchased through their platform will be valid and will arrive on time.
Ticketmaster Resale
Another popular option for buying and selling tickets is Ticketmaster Resale. Unlike Viagogo and some other platforms, Ticketmaster Resale only works with verified ticket sellers, ensuring that all tickets sold through their platform are legitimate. They also offer a 100% guarantee on all tickets purchased through their platform.
Conclusion
While Viagogo has been a popular option among ticket buyers, there are several concerns with the platform. The ability for sellers to set their own prices has led to complaints of tickets being sold at exorbitant markups, while the platform’s fees can add significantly to the overall cost of a ticket. However, there are several alternatives to Viagogo that offer similar services, including StubHub, SeatGeek, and Ticketmaster Resale. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide which platform is right for them based on their needs and preferences. In conclusion, while Viagogo has provided opportunities for people to attend sold-out events in the past, there are concerns with the platform. Be sure to explore all options before purchasing tickets to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.