So you’ve decided to follow the Gunners on the road—good on you. There’s nothing quite like the buzz of an away day, whether it’s a soggy Tuesday night at Burnley or a sun-drenched Saturday at Brighton. But let’s be honest: getting your hands on away match tickets for Arsenal can feel like trying to break into the Emirates dressing room. Between the loyalty points, the ballot systems, and the sheer demand, it’s a minefield. Many fans have been there, refreshing the page at 10 a.m. on a Wednesday, only to see “Sold Out” flash up in minutes. So let’s walk through the common headaches and how to solve them—no guarantees, just practical steps.
The Loyalty Points Labyrinth
The biggest barrier for most fans is the Arsenal loyalty points system. You need a certain number of points to even access the sale window for high-demand away fixtures—think Tottenham away, Chelsea away, or any London derby. If you’re a newer member with a low points total, you’re effectively locked out of those games until the points drop to your level, which rarely happens.
What to do: Check the official Arsenal website for the points threshold for each match. It’s usually published before the sale. If you’re below the threshold, don’t panic—you can still target lower-demand away games like a midweek trip to a newly promoted side. Build your points slowly by attending those fixtures. Also, consider joining an official Arsenal Supporters’ Club branch; some branches may have their own allocation of tickets for members.
When it needs a specialist: If you’ve been trying for two seasons and still can’t build enough points, reach out to Arsenal’s ticketing support via email. They can explain your account history and whether you’re eligible for any ballot systems.
The Ballot Blues
For the really big games—such as Champions League away ties—Arsenal often uses a ballot system. You register your interest, and then you wait. And then you get an email saying “Unsuccessful.” It’s frustrating, but it’s a common way to handle demand that’s ten times the supply.
What to do: Register for the ballot as soon as it opens—usually a month before the match. Make sure your payment details are up to date on your account. If you’re unsuccessful, don’t lose hope: sometimes returns pop up closer to the game. Check the official ticket exchange or the Arsenal ticket resale platform regularly.
When it needs a specialist: If you’re repeatedly unsuccessful in ballots for multiple seasons, contact the club’s fan liaison officer. They can’t guarantee a ticket, but they can give you tips on timing and alternative routes.
The Ticket Exchange Tango
The Arsenal ticket exchange is your best bet for last-minute away tickets. Season ticket holders who can’t make the trip list their seats there. But the catch? You have to be quick. Many fans report that tickets can appear and disappear in seconds.
What to do: Set up notifications on the official Arsenal app for ticket exchange alerts. Have your card details saved. Be ready to buy quickly when a listing appears. Also, check the exchange multiple times a day—especially in the 48 hours before kickoff when more tickets tend to surface.
When it needs a specialist: If the exchange shows no tickets for weeks and you’re desperate, consider reaching out to your local supporters’ club. They sometimes have spare tickets from members who can’t travel.
The Away End Etiquette
Once you’ve got your ticket, you need to know the rules. Away ends at Premier League grounds have strict policies: no standing in aisles, no away colors in home sections, and no camera flashes during play. Break these, and you could be ejected or banned.
What to do: Read the specific ground’s away fan guide on the Premier League website. Arrive early to avoid queues. Wear your colors proudly, but keep your ticket visible for stewards. If you’re seated near home fans, stay calm and avoid confrontations.
When it needs a specialist: If you’re banned from a ground for a genuine mistake, contact Arsenal’s fan services to appeal. They can mediate with the home club.
The Travel Tangle
Getting to away grounds can be a logistical nightmare. Some are miles from the nearest train station, and parking is often restricted. Many fans have missed kickoff due to traffic jams.
What to do: Plan your route using the club’s official travel guide for each match. Book train tickets early—Advance fares are cheaper. If driving, check the away fan parking options; some grounds offer designated lots. For European away games, consider booking a package through Arsenal’s official travel partner, which includes match tickets and transport.
When it needs a specialist: If you have accessibility needs, contact Arsenal’s disability liaison officer well before the match. They can arrange accessible parking and seating.
The Phantom Ticket Problem
Sometimes you buy a ticket, but it doesn’t appear in your account. Or you get an email saying your payment failed, but the money’s gone from your bank. This can happen, and it’s stressful.
What to do: Check your Arsenal account immediately. If the ticket isn’t there, call the ticketing hotline—don’t email, as that takes too long. Have your transaction ID ready. If the payment failed, the club will typically refund you within a few working days. In the meantime, check the exchange for last-minute options.
When it needs a specialist: If the club doesn’t resolve it within 48 hours of kickoff, escalate to the fan liaison officer. For European games, contacting UEFA’s ticketing support may be an additional step.
The Secondary Market Trap
It’s tempting to buy from a reseller when you’re desperate, but it’s risky. Fake tickets, inflated prices, and bans from the club are real possibilities. Arsenal advises against using unofficial sellers.
What to do: Only buy through the official Arsenal website, the ticket exchange, or an official supporters’ club. If you see a ticket on social media, assume it’s a scam. Report suspicious listings to the club.
When it needs a specialist: If you’ve been scammed, report it to Action Fraud (UK) and contact Arsenal’s security team. They may be able to flag the seller.
The Last-Minute Miracle
Sometimes, despite all your efforts, you end up ticketless on matchday. But don’t give up. Some fans have gotten lucky outside the away end, with spare tickets from season ticket holders who had a change of plans.
What to do: Arrive at the away ground two hours before kickoff. Stand near the main entrance, but don’t be pushy. Hold a sign saying “Need one ticket—Arsenal fan.” Be polite. Offer face value—don’t pay over the odds. If you’re with a group, split up to cover more ground.
When it needs a specialist: Never buy from touts outside the ground. They’re often selling fakes. If you’re desperate, consider going to a nearby pub that shows the game—it’s not the same, but it’s safer.
The Bigger Picture
Away match tickets for Arsenal are a game of patience and persistence. You won’t get every game you want, but with the right strategy, you can build your points, navigate the ballots, and eventually enjoy that incredible feeling of singing “The Angel” in a packed away end. For more tips on making the most of your matchday, check out our Arsenal tactics fan content hub, or dive into our counter-attack analysis for a deeper understanding of how Mikel Arteta sets up the team on the road. And if you’re curious about how the Gunners compare to their rivals, our Arsenal vs Chelsea tactical comparison is a great read.
Safe travels, and see you in the away end.
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