What Is a Combo Bet? Multiples, Accas & Sports Betting Terms
Combo bets, sometimes called multiples or accas, let you combine more than one selection into a single wager. They differ from a straightforward one-outcome bet, so it helps to get a sense of the basics before exploring further.
This blog post introduces how combo bets are structured, why some people choose them, and how potential returns might be calculated. Examples from football and horse racing illustrate the concepts.
Read on to learn more.
Why Players Use Combo Bets in Sports Betting
Combo bets allow several selections to be grouped into a single wager. Instead of choosing only one outcome, you might include multiple matches or races to form a combined option.
The main appeal is that, under certain circumstances, the possible return may be higher than placing separate single bets. There is also flexibility: you might mix events, sports, or markets on one slip to match your preferences.
However, every part of a standard combo must usually succeed for the wager to settle positively. If one element does not come through, the entire bet does not produce a return.
Combo bets may make following multiple events at the same time more engaging. Still, it is important to keep in mind that adding more selections also complicates the potential outcome.
How Does a Combo Bet Work?
At its core, a combo bet is a single wager composed of two or more selections, often called legs. Typically, all legs need to succeed for the bet to pay out, unless you use a more complex type of bet that allows for some unsuccessful selections while still producing a return.
Selections might come from the same sport or different sports. In most cases, you cannot combine outcomes that are automatically linked, such as a team to win and a player-related market that follows directly. Bookmakers prevent these combinations to keep odds fair.
The most familiar type of combo bet is the accumulator. People often say “acca” when referring to four or more selections, while doubles and trebles are smaller versions. The principle is the same across all sizes: multiplying the odds together increases the possible return, but each leg must be successful.
Some operators also offer system bets, such as Trixies or Yankees. These combine multiple smaller combos into one package. For instance, a Trixie contains three selections across four bets (three doubles and a treble), which means that even if one leg does not succeed, there might still be a return from the other combinations.
While such systems may reduce the exposure compared with a full accumulator, the total possible payout tends to be lower than if every selection in a standard combo wins.
Examples of Combo Bets in Football and Horse Racing
If you were to pick three Premier League teams to win over a weekend and place them in one combo, the whole wager would only succeed if all three teams won. A draw or loss in any of the games would mean no return.
In horse racing, you might combine winners from different races on a single card. For example, if you back a favourite in the 1.30, a strong contender in the 2.05, and a less likely runner in the 3.40, the combo would only produce a return if every selected horse wins. Even if one horse places but does not win, the bet does not pay out.
These examples highlight both the possible upside and the downside: a larger potential return is balanced against the requirement for all selections to succeed. Promotions or bonuses are sometimes offered specifically for accumulators, such as increased odds or partial insurance if a leg does not succeed, although terms vary by operator.
How Are Winnings Calculated on a Combo Bet?
In essence, potential returns are found by multiplying the odds of all selections, then applying your stake to the total.
For example, using decimal odds, three teams at 2.00 with a £5 stake would be:
2.00 × 2.00 × 2.00 = 8.00
Multiplying the £5 stake by 8.00 gives a possible return of £40.
With fractional odds, a double at 5/4 and 6/5 would first be converted into decimal, combined, and multiplied by your stake for the final figure.
Some details to note on real-world betting slips include:
- Void selections: If a leg is void, it is removed, and the combo is recalculated with the remaining legs. A treble could become a double in this way.
- Each-way terms: Common in horse racing, each-way accumulators split the stake into win and place portions, affecting the total return.
The single requirement that all standard legs must succeed underpins both the calculation and the overall outcome, showing why careful selection and consideration matter if you choose to place a combo bet.
How Do Combo Bets Compare to Single Bets?
A single bet involves one outcome. If it succeeds, the return is simply the stake multiplied by the price of that one selection. It is straightforward and less complex.
A combo bet combines two or more selections into one wager, multiplying the prices and raising the possible return. But the catch is that all elements need to succeed, which generally makes a positive outcome less frequent than a single bet.
Neither approach is inherently “better.” Singles suit those who prefer clarity, while combos appeal to those happy to link results together hypothetically. For instance, a single football match at 2.50 with a £10 stake returns £25 if it wins.
A treble at the same odds multiplies the potential return significantly, but now all three matches would need to succeed for any return.
Can You Cash Out a Combo Bet Early?
Many operators allow an early settlement, known as cash out. The amount offered may reflect how selections are progressing. If several legs are doing well, the offer might be higher; if key selections are not, it may be lower than your stake.
Partial cash out is sometimes offered, letting you secure some value while leaving other parts of the wager active.
Keep in mind that cash out is not guaranteed. Eligibility depends on the event, market, and operator rules, and offers may change quickly as results develop.
Terms and Phrases You Should Know Before Placing a Combo Bet
Understanding common terms makes a bet slip much easier to interpret:
- Accumulator (Acca): Four or more selections; all must succeed for a return.
- Double: Two selections; both must succeed.
- Treble: Three selections; all three must succeed.
- Leg: Each individual selection within a combo.
- Stake: The money placed on the bet.
- Odds: Indicate how likely a selection is and the potential return.
- Each-Way: A split stake for win and place, often used in horse racing.
- Cash Out: Early settlement, dependent on current conditions.
- Void Bet: A cancelled selection; the combo is recalculated.
- Return: Total paid out if the bet is successful, including stake and winnings.
Being familiar with these terms is helpful if you’re considering a combo bet to understand their wager and the possible outcomes.
Finally, it is essential to gamble responsibly. If betting affects your well-being or finances, seek support. Organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential guidance and resources for anyone needing assistance.
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**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.
