Being a modern-day sports fan doesn’t come cheap.
You’ve got to be willing to fork over a hefty chunk of change if you want to see your team in action. In the last decade, ticket prices have soared, leaving many fans in the dust.
In 2011, a family of Red Sox fans would need to pay over $330 dollars to take in a ball game. Meanwhile, the NHL charged families around $326 dollars. And, that same year the cost of a family visit to the MetLife Stadium exceeded $625 bucks.
Back then, New York Knicks’ tickets averaged almost $120 big ones. In 2014, the New England Patriots’ average ticket neared $125 dollars. And, the average ticket to a 2016 NFL game reached almost $100.
Prices like these don’t leave much cash for fans to purchase game day sports gear. But, we’ve discovered how to find affordable team apparel that won’t break the bank. Read on to find out more!
How You Can Score Affordable Sports Gear & Save Some Cash For Game Day
It’s not just the ticket prices putting a strain on sports fans’ pocketbooks. In 2014, a low-end official NFL fan jersey would run you around $100 dollars. While the pricier, top-of-the-line “Elite” version crept up to almost $300 bucks.
At this rate, a family of die-hard football fans would spend a fortune on their apparel, alone.
But, now you can get game-day ready without spending all of your cash before the day of the big game. And, you can still keep up with the popular styles and retail trends of today, even without blowing your budget.
Here’s how.
1. Scope Out Resale Sites For Big Savings
Today, you can find almost anything your heart desires on resale sites.
You’ll get a major bargain for items that are nearly new. In fact, many of the most popular sites offer never-worn apparel with the tags still attached.
You may even be able to haggle a bit and save even more. Some sellers allow site users to make an offer that’s lower than the asking price.
You can start by browsing the original mega-resale site, eBay. Or, choose from a number of other mobile-ready resale sites that have popped up in the last several years, such as PoshMark or Mercari.
2. Check Out Local Thrift Stores
Often, your local thrift stores are where you’ll find the absolute lowest prices for brand-name clothing of all kinds.
It’s not uncommon to find authentic sports gear and athletic apparel for less than $10 bucks per item at thrift shops.
To get the best selection, ask the retail staff which days they restock clothing racks. Then, show up early to get first dibs on the best deals.
3. Shop Online Deals
Instead of heading to the mall, head online to score deals that you won’t find in stores.
Online sportswear retailers, such as this website that’s based in the UK, often have clearance items and seasonal sales with major markdowns on big-name brands.
Also, look for opportunities to sign up for extra savings. Some sites will alert you when your favorite team’s attire goes on sale so you can rack up on savings when prices drop.
4. Organize a Sports Fans’ Clothing Swap
The next time you gather with friends to watch a big game, you can win big by inviting your crew to bring their gently used sports gear to swap with friends.
Clothing swaps have become a trendy way to trade clothing among pals. Budget-smart moms and dads often organize clothing swaps prior to the new school year to get fresh, fall finds for kids. But, sports fans can get in on the trend, too.
You’ll find that it’s twice as fun to gear up for game day when you’re hanging with your pals. And, you’ll walk away with a whole new sports wardrobe for the season ahead.
5. Sell Your Old Gear to Buy New Duds
If you’re an avid fan who also plays the field, then you can trade in last year’s gear to go towards the items you need now.
No matter which sport you play, you can get cash or credit for cleats, equipment, and clothing. Take your earnings and put them towards that jersey you’ve been eyeing. Or, use your trade-in items towards a credit to purchase the things you need.
There are several local retailers who specialize in new and used sporting goods and athletic apparel. Check online or in your local phone book for stores near you who offer trade-in options.
Or, if you can’t find a shop nearby, there are plenty of online options that allow you to list your own sporting goods for free.
Don’t know where to start?
Try Swap Me Sports. It’s an online community that lets members buy, sell, or donate items without paying any membership fees. Plus, it features a wide range of sports-related items that you can purchase for cut-rate prices, as well.
Looking For More Ways to Save Money?
With the high prices of sports gear, tickets, and other game-day costs, you can’t afford to waste cash. And, with a little work, you can cut spending in other areas, too.
Although it may take a little practice to incorporate money-saving financial habits, when you get to see your favorite team in action it will be worth the effort.
Anyone can take advantage of creative ways to stretch their income and even sock away extra savings.
If you need some help getting started, not to worry.
We’ve got you covered with plenty of smart ways to save.
Check out this post for money-saving tips and tricks that’ll save you cash and help you reach your financial goals fast!