Understanding Your Ticket: QR Code, Seat and Entry
When you purchase tickets through Seaty, you receive digital tickets that contain all the information you need to attend your event. At its simplest, this guide answers one question: What do I need to know about my tickets to get into my event?
Who uses this: Anyone who has purchased tickets through Seaty.
Key capabilities:
- Understand what information appears on your tickets and order summary
- Know the difference between seated tickets, general admission, and merchandise
- Learn how to use your QR code for entry
- Prepare for a smooth arrival at your event
How It Works
At a glance: You receive tickets after purchase, each containing event details and a unique QR code that staff scan for entry.
1. Receive Your Tickets
After completing your purchase, you receive an email containing a link to view all your tickets. This link works on any device.
2. Review Your Order
Your tickets page shows an order summary at the top (your receipt) followed by individual tickets below. Each ticket has its own unique QR code.
3. Present at Entry
At the event, show your tickets to staff who scan the QR code. Once scanned, that ticket is marked as used to prevent duplicate entry.
Think of it this way:
- Order summary is your receipt showing what you paid
- Individual tickets are your proof of admission (one per person or item)
- QR code is your unique entry pass that works once
What You Receive
After purchasing tickets, you'll receive:
- Order confirmation email - Receipt and order summary
- Ticket link - Access to your digital tickets
- Individual tickets - One ticket for each admission or item purchased
Your tickets are accessible from any device with your unique ticket link. You can view them on your phone, tablet, or print them at home.
Your Order Summary
The order summary appears at the top of your tickets page and contains:
Order Information
- Order number - Unique reference starting with # (e.g., #54321)
- Order placed by - Name and email address used for booking
- Order date - When you placed the order
- Total amount paid - Complete breakdown of your purchase
Event Information
- Event name - The event you're attending
- Event date and time - When the event takes place
- Venue details - Where the event is held, including full address
Order Breakdown
Your order summary shows exactly what you purchased:
- Each ticket type with quantity and individual price
- Seat locations (for seated events)
- Any merchandise or extras
- Discounts applied (showing the amount saved)
- Handling fees (if applicable)
- Service fees (if not absorbed by the organiser)
- Total amount paid
Important: The order summary is not a ticket. It's a receipt of your purchase. Your actual tickets appear below the order summary.
Types of Tickets
Seaty supports different types of tickets depending on the event:
Seated Tickets
What they are: Tickets with assigned seat numbers in a specific row and section.
What's on your ticket:
- Seat number - Your specific seat (e.g., "A12")
- Section name - The area of the venue (e.g., "Stalls", "Balcony", "Circle")
- Row identifier - The row letter or number (e.g., "A", "Row 3")
- Ticket category - The pricing tier (e.g., "Adult", "Child", "Concession")
- Price - What you paid for this ticket
How to use them:
- Your seat is reserved specifically for you
- Find your section first, then locate your row
- Look for the seat number within your row
- Ushers can help you find your seat if needed
Visual identification:
- Coloured dots next to category and section names help identify your ticket type
- Different colours represent different pricing tiers or seating areas
General Admission Tickets
What they are: Tickets that grant entry without a specific assigned seat.
What's on your ticket:
- Ticket position - A reference like "A1", "B5" (for tracking purposes, not a seat assignment)
- Ticket category - The type of ticket you purchased (e.g., "Adult", "Child", "VIP")
- Price - What you paid for this ticket
How to use them:
- Arrive early to get your preferred spot
- Seating or standing is first-come, first-served
- The ticket grants you entry but doesn't reserve a specific location
- Some events may have separate areas for different ticket categories
Note: The ticket position (like "A1") is used for ticket management and doesn't indicate where you should sit or stand.
Merchandise and Extras
What they are: Additional items you purchased alongside your tickets (programmes, refreshments, parking, etc.).
What's on your ticket:
- Item name - What you purchased
- Product identifier - A unique reference for collection
- Price - What you paid for this item
- "Not a ticket" notice - Reminder that this doesn't grant venue entry
How to use them:
- Present your QR code at the venue to collect your items
- These are not valid for entry to the event
- Some items may be delivered to your seat (check event details)
Add-on Tickets
What they are: Optional extras — such as Accessibility tickets or Car Parking — that you chose on the Optional Add-ons step during booking. They sit alongside your main tickets in the same order.
What's on your ticket:
- Add-on name - For example "Accessibility" or "Car Parking"
- Quantity and price - Free or paid, depending on what the organiser set up
- A QR code where it's needed for entry (for example a parking space) or as proof of the booking
How to use them:
- Treat each add-on as part of the same booking — keep the email and link safe alongside your main tickets
- Accessibility add-ons are intended to support an attendee who already has a standard ticket for the event
- Car Parking and similar add-ons usually show separate venue instructions on the order — check those before you travel
For more on how to add these during booking, see Buying a Ticket.
What's on Every Ticket
All tickets include the following information:
Ticket Identification
- Ticket number - Shows which ticket this is in the format "#12345 (Ticket 1 of 2)"
- Order number - Links back to your order (shown with # prefix, e.g., "#54321")
Purchaser Information
- Name - Who placed the order
- Email address - Contact email for the order
Event Details
- Event name - The event you're attending
- Event date and time - When it takes place
- Venue name - Where it's held
- Venue address - Full street address and postcode
QR Code
Your ticket includes a QR code (square barcode) used for:
- Entry scanning - Staff scan this at the door to validate your ticket
- Unique identification - Each ticket has its own unique code that identifies this specific ticket
- One-time use - Once scanned, the ticket is marked as used
- Duplicate prevention - Stops the same ticket being used twice
What the QR code contains: The QR code stores your ticket's unique identifier, which the venue uses to verify your ticket in their system.
Important:
- Keep your QR code private - anyone with access can use your ticket
- Don't share screenshots of your tickets on social media
- If someone scans your code before you arrive, you may be denied entry
Ticket Notes
If you've added personal notes to your ticket, they appear below the main ticket information. These are:
- Visible to you and administrators - You can see your own notes when viewing tickets (if logged in with the email used for the order), and event administrators can also view them
- Reminders - Help you remember important details
- Instructions - Any special requirements you need to communicate
You can add or edit notes by clicking "Add note" or "Edit notes" on your tickets page if you're logged in with the email address used to place the order.
Ticket Pricing Information
Original Price vs Discounted Price
If you used a discount code, your ticket shows:
- Original price - The standard ticket price before discount
- Discount applied - Shown on the order summary as a deduction
- Total paid - The final amount you actually paid
Note: Individual tickets display the original price with a notice stating "Price shown is original value before discount". Check your order summary for the actual amount paid.
What's Included in the Price
Depending on the event, your ticket price may include:
- Admission - Entry to the event
- Handling fee - Per-order processing fee (if applicable)
- Service fees - Percentage-based booking fees (if not absorbed by the organiser)
The order summary breaks down all fees so you can see exactly what you paid.
Ticket Categories Explained
Events may offer different ticket categories to accommodate different audiences:
Common Categories
Adult
- Standard full-price admission
- Usually for ages 16 and over
- Check event description for specific age requirements
Child
- Reduced price for younger attendees
- Age range varies by event (commonly under 16)
- Some events require children to be accompanied by an adult
Concession
- Discounted tickets for eligible groups
- Common eligibility: students, seniors, disabled attendees, carers
- You may be asked to show proof of eligibility at the door
Family Tickets
- Multi-person tickets at a group rate
- Typical setup: 2 adults + 2 children
- Often saves money compared to buying individually
VIP or Premium
- Enhanced experience at a higher price
- May include better seats, early entry, or special access
- Check event description for specific inclusions
Ticket Category Information
Tickets may include additional information below the category name, such as:
- Age restrictions (e.g., "Ages 3-15 only")
- What's included (e.g., "Includes programme and interval drink")
- Special conditions (e.g., "Must be accompanied by an adult")
- Access requirements (e.g., "Wheelchair accessible seating")
Custom Questions on Tickets
Some events require you to answer questions during booking. These answers appear on your tickets:
Why Questions Are Asked
- Dietary requirements - So the venue can cater appropriately
- Accessibility needs - To ensure you have appropriate seating or support
- T-shirt sizes - For events providing merchandise
- Emergency contacts - For safety purposes
- Age confirmation - For age-restricted events
Where Answers Appear
Question answers are displayed:
- Below the main ticket information
- On both the order summary and individual tickets
- Clearly labelled with the question text
Note: Keep your answers accurate. If your needs change before the event, contact the event organiser to update your information.
Admission Types
Different events have different entry requirements:
Printed and Mobile Tickets
Most common: Accepted on your phone or printed.
- Show your phone screen at the door OR
- Print your tickets at home and bring paper copies
Printed Tickets Only
Requires printing: You must print your tickets before arrival.
- Your ticket will display: "Tickets must be printed, please print and bring this ticket"
- Most home printers work fine (colour or black & white)
- Some venues have strict policies and may refuse digital tickets
Exchange Tickets
Requires collection: You must exchange your digital ticket at the venue box office.
- Your ticket will display: "Please exchange this ticket at the venue box office before event"
- Arrive early to allow time for collection
- Bring photo ID matching the order name
Custom Admission
Special instructions: The event organiser has specific requirements.
- Your ticket will display custom instructions
- Read these carefully before attending
- Contact the organiser if you have questions
Understanding Payment and Cancellation
Payment Information
Your order summary shows the total amount paid and a breakdown of all costs. Payment is typically completed before tickets are issued.
Cancelled Tickets
- Individual tickets may be cancelled (usually due to refunds)
- Cancelled tickets won't appear when you view your tickets
- Only active, valid tickets are displayed
- If you need to request a refund, use the "Request a refund" button on your tickets page
Additional Features
Gift Aid Declaration
If you opted into Gift Aid (UK charity events), your order summary shows:
- "Opted in to Gift Aid" with a gift icon
- This allows the charity to claim tax back on your donation
- No action needed from you
Box Office Collection
If you requested box office collection, your order summary shows:
- "Requested box office collection"
- Arrive early to collect physical tickets
- Bring your order confirmation email and photo ID
Add to Wallet
Some events allow you to add tickets to Apple Wallet or Google Pay:
- Look for "Add to Wallet" button on your tickets page
- One tap adds all tickets to your phone's wallet
- Access tickets without internet connection
- Receive notifications before the event
Viewing and Managing Your Tickets
Accessing Your Tickets
- Check your email for the ticket link sent after purchase
- Click the link to view all tickets in your order
- Bookmark the page for easy access later
- No login required for viewing
Printing Your Tickets
From the tickets page:
- Click the Print button
- Choose "Print Everything" (order summary + tickets) or "Print Tickets Only"
- Your browser's print dialog opens
- Select your printer and click Print
Tips:
- Print in colour if possible (makes sections and categories easier to identify)
- Black and white is acceptable for most venues
- QR codes must be clear and undamaged for scanning
Requesting a Refund
If you need a refund:
- Click Request a refund button on your tickets page
- Fill in the refund request form
- Submit your request to the event organiser
- You'll receive a response via email
Note: Refund policies vary by event. Check the event's terms and conditions for eligibility and processing times.
At the Event
What to Bring
- Your tickets (on your phone or printed)
- Photo ID matching the order name (some venues require this)
- Proof of concession eligibility if applicable (student ID, senior card, etc.)
Entry Process
- Join the queue at the venue entrance
- Present your ticket to staff (phone or paper)
- Staff scan your QR code to validate
- Find your seat (seated events) or enter the venue (general admission)
Common Issues and Solutions
"This ticket has already been scanned"
- Someone may have used a duplicate of your ticket
- Speak to venue staff immediately
- Show your order confirmation email as proof of purchase
"I can't find my seat"
- Ask an usher for help - they know the venue layout
- Check you're in the correct section first
- Verify your row and seat number on your ticket
"My phone battery died"
- If possible, charge your phone at the venue
- Some venues have printed backup lists
- Bring printed tickets as backup to avoid this issue
"I arrived late"
- Some events don't allow late entry
- Speak to venue staff about options
- Arrive with plenty of time to avoid this situation
Security and Terms
Ticket Security
- Your ticket is your proof of purchase
- Keep QR codes private
- Don't share ticket links on social media
- Report suspected fraud to the event organiser
Terms and Conditions
Your ticket states:
- "Ordered in agreement with Seaty & [Organiser Name] terms"
- Full Seaty terms: Seaty.co.uk/Docs/TermsOfService
- Event-specific terms appear on your order summary (if the organiser has added them)
Resale and Transfer
- Tickets cannot be resold for profit without permission
- Some events allow ticket transfers (contact the organiser)
- Unauthorised resale may result in tickets being invalidated
Common Questions
Ticket Changes and Sharing
Can I change the name on my tickets? Tickets are issued to the purchaser's name. Some organisers allow name changes - contact the event organiser directly to request an update.
Can I share my tickets with friends? If you purchased multiple tickets in one order, all tickets appear on the same page. You can screenshot individual tickets to share, or share the full ticket link (though this gives access to all tickets in the order). Each person needs their own unique ticket for entry.
What if I lose my ticket link? Your ticket link was sent via email. Search your inbox for emails from the event organiser or Seaty, and check spam/junk folders. If you still cannot find it, contact the event organiser with your order number and email address.
Event Policies
Do children need their own tickets? This depends on the event. Most events require tickets for all attendees regardless of age, though some events allow babies or toddlers free entry. Check the event description for age policies.
What if the event is rescheduled or cancelled? Contact the event organiser. They will inform you of new dates or refund processes. Seaty facilitates ticket sales but organisers control event changes. Your order confirmation email has contact details.
Accessibility and Special Requirements
What if I have accessibility requirements? If you did not specify requirements during booking, contact the event organiser as soon as possible. Most venues can accommodate if given advance notice. For future bookings, check if the event has custom questions about accessibility.
Receipts and Documentation
Can I get a VAT receipt? Your order summary serves as a receipt showing order number, date of purchase, itemised breakdown, and total amount paid. For VAT-specific documentation, contact the event organiser directly.
Getting Help
For Ticket Questions
- Check this guide first
- Contact the event organiser (details in your confirmation email)
- Have your order number ready
For Technical Issues
- Email: support@seaty.co.uk
- Include your order number
- Describe the problem in detail
- Attach screenshots if helpful
For Refunds
- Use "Request a refund" button on your tickets page
- Refund policies vary by event
- Organisers respond to requests directly
Summary Checklist
Before the event, make sure you:
- Have access to your ticket link
- Know whether you need to print or can use mobile tickets
- Understand where your seat is located (seated events)
- Have noted any special instructions or admission requirements
- Checked the venue address and planned your journey
- Charged your phone (if using mobile tickets)
- Brought photo ID if required
- Brought proof of concession eligibility if applicable
- Arrived with plenty of time before the event starts
Enjoy your event!
Your tickets contain everything you need for a smooth entry. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the event organiser.