How to book a bet: Step-by-Step Guide

In today's tutorial, you'll discover how to book a bet and place a wager ahead of time. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn about this betting approach and how to implement it. 

Understanding "Book a Bet"

To book a bet, you will place a wager online and obtain a physical receipt to play at a betting shop. Some players prefer a printed betting receipt for their records. Importantly, when booking a bet online, you don't pay right away; the payment is made at the betting shop. This method allows you to pay for your bet in cash, avoiding online transactions.

Our Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Bet

Booking a bet is simple. The steps below highlight the process to follow.

Visit a Betting Website

First, select a bookmaker that meets your betting needs and confirm they offer the “book a bet” option. Although it is not available on all platforms, many top betting sites in Nigeria provide this feature.

Create or Log into an Account

Next, you'll need to create a new account with the betting site if you don’t already have one. Fill out the registration form and secure any welcome offers. Some bookmakers allow you to book a bet without an account, but this feature varies by provider.

Select Your Bet

Navigate to the sports betting section, locate the odds you wish to wager on, and add them to your virtual betslip to confirm your selection.

Confirm Your Bet

Input your stake and confirm the wager. Note that you won't pay immediately; the payment will be made in person at the bookie’s betting shop.

Copy the Booking Code

A crucial step is to copy your unique booking number from the betslip. Enter this number and your email address into the designated box on the desktop or mobile site.

Print Confirmation

You'll receive an email confirming your bet. Download and print this confirmation at home or save a digital copy.

Visit the Betting Shop

Take your printed or digital confirmation to your nearest betting shop. The staff will verify the booking code, process the bet, and take your payment.

Finalise the Bet

Once the transaction is confirmed, the staff may inform you of any changes in odds. Confirm your bet to complete the booking process.

Common Issues When Booking a Bet

Bettors might face several common issues during the booking process. Though most can be resolved easily, persistent problems should be directed to the bookmaker’s customer support. Below are some frequent challenges and their solutions.

Not Available 24/7

Betting shops have specific operating hours. Ensure the shop is open before heading over to place your wager. If closing times are an issue, consider completing the transaction online.

Incorrect Booking Code

Entering the wrong booking code can prevent the bet from loading. Keep the original bet page open while you enter the code in a new tab. Alternatively, note down the code manually if copying and pasting fails.

Changing Odds

The odds might change from the time you book the bet online to when you get to the shop. To avoid this, you could go directly to the bookmaker and place the bet without first booking it online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I place my first bet?

To book your first bet, go to the bookmaker’s site, choose your bet, print the confirmation slip, and visit a betting shop to finalise the wager.

Do I need to deposit funds into my account to book a bet?

No deposits are required to book a bet. You will pay in person at the betting shop using cash or a debit/credit card.

Is the booking process the same across all bookmakers?

The process can vary by site. For example, bet9ja allows non-account holders to book a bet, while others might require signing up first.