This post may contain affiliate links which may compensate us based on your interaction. Please read the disclosures for more information.
Having a concert sell out before you get your ticket is rough. Your credit card might be able to help. Here’s how.
Image source: Getty Images
Some of the perks of your credit cards are commonly known. You get statement credits, points, and even travel perks like hotel status or lounge access. But many cards also come with perks that aren’t so obvious.
For example, folks who are already eyeballing the list of upcoming summer concerts might be interested to know that the best cards for concerts can unlock big entertainment perks that make it easier — and sometimes cheaper — to get tickets for all the hottest events.
Save: This credit card has one of the longest intro 0% interest periods around
More: Save while you pay off debt with one of these top-rated balance transfer credit cards
Get a leg up on the competition
If you’ve ever broken the refresh button on your keyboard trying to score hard-to-get tickets, then you know how important presale access can be. That’s why you should check if you’re eligible for presale access through your credit cards.
Included concerts vary by issuer (and occasionally type of card), but most programs have a ton of options. Of course, as with any presale, the number of available tickets will be finite, so you’ll still need to be on your game if you’re going after an instant-sellout show.
If you don’t have presale access, you may have the next best thing: preferred seating. Some cardholders can purchase from a reserved pool of seats set aside just for you (well, you and thousands of your fellow cardmembers). These aren’t the junky nosebleed seats, either. You’ll often find premium seats close enough to vibrate your eardrums.
And let’s not overlook the VIP services, lounges, and events. Certain events have dedicated entrances for Amex cardholders, for instance. Or your Chase card might help you get free grub in the Chase Lounge at Madison Square Garden. Oh, and maybe you can hit an exclusive sound check via your Capital One card.
Pay with points for free shows
While the extra access is nearly priceless, there’s also a more practical aspect to your credit cards when it comes to concerts: rewards. Sometimes, the tickets are available, but you just can’t afford them. With some cards, you might be able to redeem your rewards points for tickets, thus skipping that pesky having money part.
And let’s not forget the points you’ll earn on tickets when you do have the cash. Choose a rewards card with an entertainment bonus category and you’ll be able to start saving up for the next show.
Who is eligible?
The issuers behind the four most popular travel rewards programs also happen to have some of the best entertainment perks:
American ExpressCapital OneChaseCiti
What kind of perks you get varies by card company — and by card. Most, if not all, cardholders can get access to things like presales and cardholder discounts. However, preferred seating to certain events, and access to invite-only events, may require you to have a premium card.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you may need to enroll in or activate some of these perks. Be sure to look through your card benefits so you don’t miss any important terms or conditions.
Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR until 2024
If you’re using the wrong credit or debit card, it could be costing you serious money. Our experts love this top pick, which features a 0% intro APR until 2024, an insane cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee.
In fact, this card is so good that our experts even use it personally. Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.
We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.American Express is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Citigroup is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Brittney Myers has positions in American Express. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
