With the rise of mobile technology, digital wallets have become a convenient way to store tickets for events, travel, and more. Storing tickets digitally provides easy access from your smartphone or other device, eliminating the need to print paper tickets. Here are some common questions and answers about storing tickets in a digital wallet.
What is a digital wallet?
A digital wallet is an app or online account that allows you to store your payment information, tickets, loyalty cards, and other digital assets in one secure place. Popular digital wallet options include Apple Wallet, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and apps provided by airlines, event companies, and other businesses.
What types of tickets can I store in a digital wallet?
Many different types of tickets can be stored digitally, including:
- Airline tickets
- Event tickets (concerts, sports, theater, etc.)
- Movie tickets
- Boarding passes
- Loyalty/rewards cards and codes
- Coupons
- Gift cards
- Transit tickets and passes
How do I get a ticket into my digital wallet?
The process for adding tickets to a digital wallet depends on the type of ticket and wallet app, but generally there are two main methods:
1. Direct integration when purchasing ticket
When you purchase a ticket from a website, app, or vendor that integrates with digital wallets, you may have the option to directly add the ticket to your digital wallet during checkout. For example, when buying plane tickets on an airline’s website, you can choose to add the boarding pass directly to Apple Wallet or Google Pay.
2. Manually entering ticket details
For tickets that don’t directly integrate, you may need to manually enter the ticket details into your digital wallet app. Typically you will need to enter the ticket barcode number, event/location details, and upload a scan of the ticket. Instructions will vary by app – for example, in Apple Wallet you can use the camera to scan the ticket barcode and automatically create a digital pass.
What information is visible on a digital ticket?
The visible ticket details will vary, but most digital tickets display:
- Event or airline name
- Location and date
- Seat or gate number
- Barcode
- Ticket section/type
Digital tickets often display your name and order number for personalization and security. Any additional print text, maps, or graphics on the paper ticket may not be visible.
Can I still use a paper ticket if I add it to my digital wallet?
In most cases, yes – having the ticket in your digital wallet is just an additional convenience and does not invalidate your paper ticket. However, some event organizers and airlines are starting to require digital tickets only. Check with your specific ticket source to confirm whether you still need to present a paper ticket after adding it to a digital wallet.
Is my digital ticket secure?
Digital wallets use encryption, tokens, and other security measures to protect your tickets and personal information. The digital tickets also feature unique barcodes that cannot be easily duplicated. As long as you use a reputable digital wallet app and keep your login/device secure, your tickets should be safe.
Can I transfer or sell a digital ticket?
It depends on the digital wallet platform and ticket type. Some digital tickets are non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased them originally. Others may allow transfers or resale through official channels. Contact the ticket provider or digital wallet to check their policy before attempting to transfer a digital ticket to someone else.
How are digital tickets scanned for entry?
To use a digital ticket, simply open your digital wallet app and display the ticket barcode/QR code for scanning. The event staff or airline gate agent will scan your digital barcode just like a paper ticket. In some cases you may need to temporarily enable wifi or mobile data so your ticket can refresh and display the current active barcode.
Do digital tickets expire after being scanned?
Typically yes – once a digital ticket barcode is scanned for entry, it is marked as redeemed and expires immediately so it cannot be scanned again. Some apps may automatically delete redeemed digital tickets from your wallet to avoid confusion.
What if my phone battery dies or I lose signal?
One disadvantage of digital tickets is they require power and internet connectivity to access. If your phone dies before you can display your ticket, you may be out of luck. Always make sure to charge your phone before heading to an event. As a backup, you can print paper copies of important digital tickets in case you lose connectivity.
Can I switch digital tickets to another device?
You may be able to transfer digital tickets to another compatible device logged into the same digital wallet account. For example, you can switch Apple Wallet tickets between your iPhone and Apple Watch. Check with your specific wallet app for device switching options.
Is there a limit to how many tickets I can store?
Most digital wallet apps do not appear to enforce a hard limit on tickets, but performance may slow down if you save hundreds or thousands of tickets. It’s best to periodically delete expired tickets to keep your wallet running smoothly.
What are the benefits of storing tickets in a digital wallet?
Benefits include:
- Convenience – tickets easily accessible from your phone
- Security – tickets protected by encryption and unique barcodes
- Organization – all tickets stored in one centralized app
- Efficiency – faster entry with digital barcode scans
- Eco-friendly – reduces paper waste from printing tickets
What if I need help with a digital ticket?
If you have trouble displaying, transferring, or using a digital ticket, first contact the ticket seller or event host for assistance. For problems with the digital wallet app itself, check for customer service options in the app settings or contact the digital wallet company’s support team online.
Conclusion
Storing tickets in digital wallets is a convenient and secure option for easy access on your phone. When purchasing tickets, look for the digital wallet integration options. If not available, you can manually add ticket details in most wallet apps. Digital tickets provide organizational and environmental benefits, but require power and connectivity. Take some simple precautions and you can successfully utilize digital wallets for tickets of all kinds.