Hey team! Welcome back to our next blog instalment of Zero to NVGs!
So you want to book your first airsoft game but you’re unsure of what to expect when you get on site? Let’s chat about what you can expect from a typical UK Airsoft site including roughly how much it costs, what rental kit you can get and what the facilities are like. It goes without saying that every airsoft is of course different and facilities/costs will vary between them, especially between CQB and woodland sites but I hope this is a helpful mini guide for you!
How much does an airsoft game day cost?
Firstly, let’s chat about roughly how much airsoft costs! The cost of an airsoft game in the UK varies from site to site; I’ve paid £25 to play at one site and £38 at another. Typically, the price for a walk on (bringing your own kit) tends to be between £25-£35. Equipment rental costs typically cost between £15-£25 for a full days hire and this is added to the walk on fee. This usually includes your hire gun, 1000 BBs and your eye/face protection. If you are starting out and hiring equipment, I would budget around £60 for your game day and rental.
Do airsoft sites serve food?
Again, this varies. Some sites have dedicated food prep areas and serve food like hot dogs and burgers (it’s rare that this is included in your game day fee though), others have food vans parked up in the safe zone where you can purchase food and others sell snacks and drinks at the registration desk. There are usually tea and coffee stations in the safe zone - I don’t think I’ve been to an airsoft site that hasn’t had one! As a general rule, I always bring a packed lunch and any drinking water I’ll need for the day. I’m a big fan of a Tesco meal deal or a potnoodle!
What is the car parking situation?
Car parking is typically on-site and free. Some sites use their car parks as the safe zone.
What is the safe zone situation?
The safe zone is the ‘getting ready’ area and the only area where you don’t need to wear your eye pro. No loaded guns are allowed in the safe zone hence its name. No safe zone will be the same as another. Some are inside, some are outside with cover and some are the car park. This is where you’ll sign in, get your rental kit, get ready for each game (loading BBs into mags etc), eat and hang out. Check the site you’re attending’s website to see if they have any information on their safe zone. Every site I have been to has at a minimum portaloos for toilet facilities.
One of the biggest barriers for new players believe it or not isn't the cost, the kit, or even the fear of getting shot - it's simply not knowing what to expect on the day. Turning up underprepared, wearing the wrong things, or missing the safety brief because you didn't know what time to arrive - these are the things that turn a brilliant first experience into a stressful one.
So I put together a free beginner game day checklist!
It's completely free to download from my Beacons store. Download it or print it, use it, and come back and tell me how your first game went!
Get yours for free, here!
