Free bets and bonuses are everywhere in the UK betting scene. From welcome offers on Premier League weekends to special promotions during big events like Cheltenham or Wimbledon, bookmakers use them to stand out in a crowded market. For punters, these deals can be a great way to boost your bankroll, try out new betting markets, or place riskier wagers without touching your own cash. But there’s a catch, without knowing how to use free bets and bonuses effectively, it’s easy to waste them on low-value bets or miss out because of tricky terms and conditions.
Types of free bets and bonuses
Not all promotions are the same. The most common ones you’ll find in the UK include:
- Matched free bets – bet £10, get £10 back as a free bet.
- No deposit bonuses – small free bet or credit for signing up.
- Deposit match bonuses – the bookmaker matches a percentage of your first deposit.
- Risk-free bets – if your first bet loses, you get your stake back as a free bet or credit.
Tips to make the most of free bets
1. Always read the terms and conditions
Check for wagering requirements, expiry dates, and restrictions. Some free bets only work on certain odds or markets.
Also read: How to bet on cricket: Test, ODI, and T20. Here is a complete guide
2. Use free bets on bigger odds
Since you don’t get your stake back on free bet winnings, it makes sense to use them on slightly higher-risk selections with bigger potential returns.
3. Don’t waste bonuses on short odds
Betting a £20 free bet on a heavy favourite at 1/5 odds won’t return much. Aim for medium-range odds (like 2/1 or 3/1) to maximise value.
4. Split across different sports or markets
If you get multiple free bets, spread them across football, horse racing, or tennis instead of putting all on one event. This reduces risk and increases chances of a payout.
5. Track your offers
Keep a simple spreadsheet or use apps that track promotions. Many UK punters miss out because they forget expiry dates or conditions.
Mistakes to avoid
- Betting blindly without checking the odds restrictions.
- Forgetting that winnings often exclude the free bet stake.
- Ignoring wagering requirements on bonus credits.
- Using the offer on sports or markets you don’t understand.
Free bets and bonuses are not a shortcut to guaranteed profits, but if you use them wisely, they can stretch your betting bankroll and give you extra shots at winning. Think of them as tools to try new strategies, not as free money.
Also Read: How to calculate odds in UK online casinos
FAQs
1. Can I withdraw a free bet as cash?
No. Free bets are non-withdrawable. Only the winnings (excluding the stake) can be withdrawn.
2. What are wagering requirements?
These are conditions that require you to bet your bonus money a set number of times before you can withdraw it.
3. Do free bets expire?
Yes. Most UK bookmakers set expiry dates, usually 7–30 days from when you receive the free bet.
4. Should I use free bets on accumulators?
Yes, you can. Many punters use them on accumulators for a chance at higher returns, but remember the higher risk involved.
5. What’s the best strategy for free bets?
Place them on medium odds, spread them across different markets, and always check terms and conditions.
