Is It Better To Bet Each Way & When Should You Do It?
If you have seen “each way” next to a bet in a shop window or online, you might have wondered what it means. For many people, this term can prompt questions about when and why it might be used.
This article will explain what each way betting involves, the types of events it is commonly associated with, and considerations to keep in mind if you are thinking about using it.
What Is an Each Way Bet?
An each way bet is a commonly offered option in UK sports betting. It is most frequently available in horse racing and occasionally on other sports such as golf. When placing an each way bet, you are effectively making two separate bets of equal value: one on your selection to win, and one on your selection to place in a specified position.
The “win” part of the bet is on your selection finishing first. The “place” part covers your selection finishing within a certain number of places, which is set by the bookmaker before the event. This might be the top two, three, or more positions, depending on the number of competitors involved.
For example, if you place £1 each way on a horse, your total stake will be £2: £1 on the horse to win and £1 on it to place within the defined positions. The place odds are usually a fraction of the win odds, such as 1/4 or 1/5, and these are clearly indicated in the market information before the race or event.
Is It Better To Bet Each Way?
Choosing to bet each way depends on your preferences and approach. If you think your selection may finish near the top but are unsure it will win, an each way bet can offer a chance of a return.
This type of bet is often used in events with many participants, such as horse races with large fields or golf tournaments with several competitors. By dividing your stake between the “win” and “place” parts, there is an opportunity for a payout even if your selection does not finish first.
Returns from each way bets tend to be smaller unless your selection wins. Additionally, since an each way bet consists of two separate bets, it requires double the stake of a single bet, which is worth considering if you want to manage your spending carefully.
Terms and odds can vary between bookmakers, so it may be useful to check the details each time you consider placing an each way bet.
When To Place an Each Way Bet
Players might consider an each way bet when backing an outsider with longer odds or a favourite in a large field. For example, this could apply to a competitor with higher odds in a major tournament or a horse running in a race with many entrants.
The number of places paid and the place odds can vary depending on the bookmaker and the event. In horse races with sixteen or more runners, it is common for bookmakers to pay out on the first four places. When there are fewer competitors, the number of places paid usually decreases.
Comparing different bookmakers, including their place terms, odds, and available each way markets, may help you find options that suit your preferences.
Each Way Betting Rules Explained
An each way bet consists of two parts: the “win” element and the “place” element, each with the same stake.
Place terms define how many finishing positions qualify for a payout and the fraction of the win odds that applies. For example, a bookmaker might offer 1/5 of the win odds for the first three places in a race with twelve runners.
If your selection wins, both the win and place bets pay out at full odds, and your stakes for both bets are returned. If your selection only places, you receive a return on the place bet at the reduced fraction, including that stake, but the win bet is lost.
Each way betting applies to sports markets where finishing positions matter. It does not apply to games based on chance, such as slots or casino games.
Do You Get Your Stake Back On An Each Way Bet?
Your total stake is divided equally between the win and place bets. For example, a £2 each way bet means £1 is placed on the win and £1 on the place.
If your selection wins, you receive any winnings plus your original stakes from both parts of the bet. If your selection finishes in a paying place but does not win, you will receive a return on the place bet, including that stake, but the stake on the win bet is lost.
If your selection finishes outside the places paid, both stakes are lost.
Bookmakers provide these terms alongside each market so you can review them before placing any bets.
Bet On Sports Online at Mr Luck
At Mr Luck, you can find a variety of sports to follow, including football, horse racing, tennis, and basketball. This range provides an opportunity to explore different markets and events that may interest you.
When you register with Mr Luck, you can access current odds and detailed statistics. The site is designed to be user-friendly, making it easier to browse through the available options.
Mr Luck places emphasis on user safety and operates under the standards set by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Being fully licensed and regulated, it aims to provide a secure environment for those using the platform.
With clear information and a focus on responsible practices, Mr Luck provides a straightforward way to engage with sports betting markets.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.