Giving away tickets sounds simple -- just hand them over, right? But with modern digital ticketing, it is not always that straightforward. If you do not transfer tickets properly, the recipient might arrive at the venue only to be turned away. Here is how to give away tickets safely and make sure the person receiving them can actually get in.
This guide covers general advice for transferring tickets in the UK. Always check the specific platform's transfer policy.
Why you cannot just forward the email
Many people think that forwarding the confirmation email with the QR code is enough. It often is not, for several reasons:
- Dynamic QR codes -- Some platforms use QR codes that change periodically or are linked to the account holder's device. A screenshot or forwarded code may not work at the door.
- Name-matched tickets -- If the ticket has your name on it and the venue checks ID, the recipient will not get in.
- Single-scan codes -- If the QR code has already been scanned (or could be scanned by you), it will not work again for someone else.
The right way to transfer tickets
The safest approach depends on the platform:
Platform transfer features
Most modern ticketing platforms offer an official transfer or "send to a friend" feature. This generates a new ticket (with a new QR code) in the recipient's name. On Tickts, for example, the transfer process takes just a few taps -- you enter the recipient's email address, and they receive their own verified ticket. The original ticket is automatically voided, so there is no risk of duplication.
Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster allows transfers for many (but not all) events. Log into your account, go to your order, and look for the "Transfer" option. The recipient will receive the ticket in their Ticketmaster account.
Other platforms
Check the platform's help section or contact their customer service. Most will have a process for transferring tickets, even if it requires manual intervention.
If no transfer feature exists
If the platform does not offer transfers, your options include:
- Contact the platform -- Ask them to change the name on the ticket or issue a new ticket in the recipient's name.
- Go together -- If the ticket is in your name, attend the event with the person you are giving it to. You can enter together and then go your separate ways inside.
- Contact the venue -- Some venues will allow entry if you can provide proof of purchase and authorisation for someone else to use the ticket.
Giving away physical tickets
If your tickets are physical (paper or card), giving them away is simpler -- just hand them over. However:
- Check if the event requires ID matching. If so, physical tickets in your name may not work for someone else.
- If the tickets are "will call" (collected at the box office), only the original purchaser can typically collect them. Contact the box office to arrange collection by someone else.
Donating tickets to charity
If you want to donate tickets to a charity or community group:
- Contact the charity directly to see if they can use them.
- Transfer the tickets officially (using the platform's transfer feature) to a named person at the charity.
- Some organisations -- such as the Tickets for Good scheme -- specifically facilitate ticket donations to people who would not otherwise be able to attend events.
What not to do
- Do not post tickets publicly on social media -- The QR code or barcode could be copied by anyone who sees it.
- Do not sell tickets you are giving away for free -- If someone is reselling tickets you gave them, that is their decision (and potentially their legal problem), but make your intentions clear.
- Do not assume the recipient will figure it out -- If there are any special instructions (entry time, collection requirements, ID needed), pass them on.
Summary
The best way to give away tickets is through the platform's official transfer feature. This ensures the recipient gets a valid ticket in their own name. If no transfer feature exists, contact the platform or venue directly. Do not just forward a screenshot and hope for the best -- a few minutes of effort now can save the recipient from being turned away at the door.
