Going to a concert can be an amazing experience. Seeing your favorite musician perform live is exhilarating. However, concert experiences can vary greatly depending on where you sit or stand. Some venues offer VIP packages that provide prime seating or access to exclusive areas. But are these high-priced upgrades really worth the cost?
What does VIP offer at concerts?
VIP packages differ between venues and performers, but they typically include some combination of the following perks:
- Premium seats near the stage
- Access to a VIP lounge area
- Private bar with unlimited drinks
- Food catering (dinner, snacks, desserts)
- Commemorative VIP laminate & lanyard
- Early entrance to the venue
- Backstage tour
- Meet & greet with band members
- Autographed merchandise
- Gift bag of band merch
So in exchange for a higher ticket price, VIP offers you the chance to get much closer to the action and enjoy luxury extras like free food and drinks. Some of the rarer perks like meeting the performers or getting autographed items are also highly desirable for super fans.
How much more does VIP cost?
The price premium for VIP concert packages can vary greatly depending on the act and venue. In general you can expect to pay:
- 2-3x more than the cheapest regular admission tickets
- At least $200+ more per VIP ticket
- Over $1,000+ more per ticket for top-tier experiences
To illustrate, here are some examples of VIP pricing compared to regular tickets for major concerts:
Artist | Venue | Regular Ticket Price | VIP Ticket Price |
---|---|---|---|
Taylor Swift | SoFi Stadium | $149 – $599 | $899 – $999 |
Red Hot Chili Peppers | Wembley Stadium | $63 – $128 | $256 – $371 |
The Weeknd | Soldier Field | $29 – $995 | $575 – $2,500 |
Harry Styles | United Center | $56 – $296 | $350 – $499 |
As you can see, the VIP treatment commands a steep price over regular admission. The Weeknd’s top-tier VIP package at Soldier Field costs over 2.5x more than the highest regular ticket price!
Pros of VIP concert tickets
Here are some of the biggest advantages that come with purchasing VIP tickets:
Prime viewing spots
The #1 benefit of VIP is getting the best seats in the house near the front and center of the stage. Being closer to the action provides a more immersive concert experience visually and acoustically.
Better amenities
VIP perks like air-conditioned lounges, unlimited food and drinks, and private bars can help make the event more comfortable and convenient. VIP guests can avoid long lines and enjoy premium amenities.
Exclusive access
From backstage tours to meet & greets with artists, VIP offers money-can’t-buy-experiences for superfans. These special extras create unique memories that standard ticket holders don’t get.
Status & luxury treatment
The VIP designation provides a sense of elevated status and importance. Fans enjoy being treated like a VIP with special laminates, swag, and premium service. It makes the event feel more glamorous and exclusive.
Supports the artist
For dedicated fans, paying extra for VIP helps support an artist financially. The high price tag helps compensate performers more for their work.
Cons of VIP concert tickets
On the other hand, there are also some downsides to purchasing VIP tickets:
Very expensive
The huge premium for VIP pricing puts the experience out of reach for many regular fans, especially younger ones. VIP costs hundreds or thousands more per ticket which is unaffordable for most.
Perks not worth the price
Unless you really value being in the front row or meeting artists, regular cheaper tickets get you most of the same concert enjoyment. Many fans find the additional VIP perks not worth 2-3x the money.
Doesn’t guarantee a perfect experience
Despite the elevated price, issues like mediocre food quality, sound problems, or inefficient operations can still hamper VIP experiences. Paying more does not guarantee everything will be perfect.
Separates you from regular fans
Sitting in special sections separates you from general audiences. For some, hobnobbing exclusively with other VIPs detracts from the shared crowd energy.
Often sells out quickly
Because of limited availability, VIP tickets sell out very fast. Hot shows may only put a few dozen VIP packages on sale making them extremely scarce.
Is VIP worth it for different concertgoers?
Whether VIP treatment is “worth it” depends a lot on the specific fan. Here is how the value of VIP tickets may vary between different concertgoers:
Casual listeners
For casual listeners not obsessed with the artist, VIP is likely not worth the steep upcharge. Regular tickets should provide a satisfying enough experience.
Older generations
Older generations may appreciate VIP more for the luxe amenities, seating, and avoid standing in GA crowds. But the high cost is harder to justify on a fixed income.
Parents with children
Parents can benefit from lounge access, seating, and avoiding crowds in VIP areas. However, the costs to bring a whole family are usually prohibitive.
Die-hard fans
Devoted superfans tend to find the most value in VIP. Once-in-a-lifetime artist experiences and ultra-close proximity are worth the high price.
Wealthy patrons
For high net worth individuals, VIP concert costs are relatively more affordable. Wealthy fans often feel the exclusivity and luxury treatment are worth the upcharge.
Fans on a budget
Budget-conscious fans like students have to carefully weigh costs vs enjoyment. While enticing, most conclude standard tickets work within their limited means.
People with disabilities
For some disabled individuals, VIP provides needed amenities like premium seating and lounge access. But again, costs usually make it prohibitive.
Tips for concertgoers considering VIP tickets
For regular concertgoers weighing the value of VIP, here are some tips:
- Do consider VIP for a once-in-a-lifetime favorite artist or reunion/final tour where the extra cost helps create memories.
- Don’t feel pressured by FOMO – regular tickets still provide amazing experiences.
- Do factor in the full costs with food, drinks, parking, transportation, and other expenses.
- Don’t expect perfection just because you paid more – issues can still happen.
- Do purchase during pre-sales to secure limited VIP ticket inventory when available.
- Don’t buy VIP just for the status and luxury – focus on perks you’ll really appreciate and use.
Conclusion
VIP concert tickets guarantee prime seating, special amenities, and exclusive access. While enticing for fans, the extreme costs mean they are out of reach for most and not worth it for casual listeners. Devoted fans find the most value in once-in-a-lifetime experiences and interactions VIP provides. But every concertgoer needs to decide if the luxury experience is worth 2-3x the price of regular admission based on their budget and appreciation of the extra perks offered. Overall, VIP packages are an expensive indulgence that hardcore fans can sometimes rationalize for top-tier artists and tours.