
Ashes Frequently Asked Questions
Specific Ashes FAQs
For non-related Ashes FAQs, please click here.
TRAVEL
Are there any COVID-19 restrictions?
As of November 2024, Australia has lifted all COVID-19 entry restrictions. Travelers are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination, undergo testing, or quarantine upon arrival.
Can I add-on different activities before or during the tour?
We will provide excursion and event options for our travel packages prior to your departure. You will also be able to purchase tickets for specific events on our website for the city you are in at a later date.
Can I buy a Barmy Army travel package if I don’t live in the UK?
Yes, we welcome anyone who wants to join!
Can I buy a package for four people, but only buy 2 tickets for the cricket?
All our packages will include match tickets for each passenger. We’d recommend joining us anyway as the tickets are a small part of the total cost, and those who’d rather explore their surroundings during that time, can do so!
Can I buy a package with the Barmy Army for the Ashes without flights?
Yes! We will have all packages available without flights also. If you buy a package without flights, you won’t receive international airport transfers.
Can I extend my package once the tour has started?
If you’re looking to book a further holiday, we can accommodate flight changes however if you’re looking to book a hotel and excursions for your further trip, please contact your local Hays Branch where they can arrange this for you.
Can I upgrade my luggage allowance?
Our luggage allowances are fixed and cannot be amended. If you have domestic flights with us, the baggage allowance may be lower than your international flight.
Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?
Entry into Australia:
The following information is taken from the FDCO website and is provided to assist you in your planning. It is your responsibility to check for any updates or changes before departure, as entry requirements may change.
For British passport holders, the FDCO website is updated with all changes to entry requirements along with other useful travel advice for Australia –
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia
Passport Validity:
To enter Australia, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you plan to leave Australia. If you’re transiting through another country on your way to or from Australia, ensure you meet that country’s entry requirements, as some require at least 6 months of passport validity.
You may be denied entry if your passport is expired, has been reported lost or stolen, or does not meet the validity requirement.
Visa Requirements:
All visitors to Australia must have a valid visa or travel authority. Most short-term visitors can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa depending on your nationality.
Please check with the Australian Department of Home Affairs for complete visa eligibility and requirements.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder
Flight Points / Avios Points
You can gain Avios/flight points when booking flights with us. However you cannot redeem Avios/flight points with us, you’ll need to book a ground package and source your own flights to redeem these points.
How can I avoid the single supplement? / Twin Sharing Pairing Service
For the Ashes we have a dedicated Solo Traveller group to allow you to find the perfect match for your tour!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/563779322886497
The Pairing Process:
Once we receive your details, our team will carefully review your request and connect you with a suitable travel partner who has selected the same package and matches your preferences.
Confirmation:
When a suitable match is found, we’ll introduce you to your travel partner and provide all the necessary information to help you connect before your trip.
After confirming your match:
We’ll process your booking with the details provided.
Each of you will receive a separate payment link to ensure privacy and security—no need to share any card details.
Follow-Up:
Before your journey down under begins, we’ll check in with you to ensure everything is on track and address any additional questions you may have.
Information We Require:
To add you to our list of twin-share requests, please provide the following details:
Full Name
Date of Birth
Passport Details
The Code for Your Preferred Travel Package
Gender
Any Additional Preferences (e.g., age range, interests, or other criteria for your twin-share partner)
How can I upgrade my flight?
Due to the flights being out of range when we go on sale, we can’t provide accurate information about upgrade costs. Therefore we’ve added a question during your booking journey to allow you to express interest in a flight upgrade. If you’ve selected yes to this question we will be in touch with options.
How do I check in for my flights and get boarding passes?
We’ll provide you with your e-ticket number prior to your departure.
How do I request a bespoke package?
If you’re looking to book a further holiday, we can accommodate flight changes however if you’re looking to book a hotel and excursions for your further trip, please contact your local Hays Branch where they can arrange this for you.
How to I make travel requests?
You can add these into the travel requests box during the booking journey.
I don’t have my passport details yet, can I book a tour?
Please provide us your details at least 24 hours after booking via email ashes@barmyarmy.com.
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
We don’t offer travel insurance as part of your travel package, however it is a requirement of our terms and conditions that you have adequate insurance in place.
Refund policy – when can I cancel my purchase?
NO COOLING OFF PERIOD
If you Cancel your Booking Before Departure
If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by us at our offices and will be effective from the date on which we receive it. Should one or more member of a party cancel, it may increase the per person booking price of those still travelling and you will be liable to pay this increase.
Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the cancellation charges as follows:

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% for that part of the arrangements in addition to the charges above. Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.
When will I receive my travel documents?
We will aim to provide you with your final documents 7-14 days before your departure date.
What are the payment terms for the Ashes?
25% deposit
37.5% by 24/02/2025
37.5% 16 weeks prior to package start date
What happens if I miss my flight?
Please call our emergency line (you can find this on the first page of your final documents) if you miss a flight and our team will help you from there.
When will I receive my travel documents?
We will aim to provide you with your final documents 7-14 days before your departure date.
Why is a BA tour more expensive than when I book privately?
Exclusive Access and Experiences: Barmy Army tours often include unique experiences that independent travelers may not easily access. This can include meet-and-greets with players, private events, or exclusive hospitality packages that enhance the overall trip.
Prime Match Tickets: Packages provided by Barmy Army tours usually offer premium tickets to matches, ensuring better seating and a more enjoyable viewing experience. These tickets may be in high-demand areas, adding to the overall cost.
Accommodation and Transportation: Tours often include pre-arranged accommodation and transportation that is centrally located or conveniently positioned near cricket venues. The quality and convenience provided can be more expensive than if booked independently, but it offers a hassle-free experience.
Group Activities and Social Elements: Barmy Army tours are known for their camaraderie and social atmosphere. The cost often covers organized events such as welcome parties, social gatherings, and other entertainment activities that create a communal experience for cricket fans.
Tour Management and Support: The tours typically include the services of experienced tour managers who coordinate logistics, provide support, and ensure the smooth running of the itinerary. This service ensures peace of mind and adds to the overall cost.
Special Merchandise and Perks: Participants often receive exclusive Barmy Army merchandise and souvenirs as part of the package. These items may not be available to those booking independently and contribute to the premium nature of the tour.
Expert Guidance and Commentary: Some tours include insights from cricket legends, analysts, or experts who provide commentary and share their knowledge, making the experience more enriching.
Security and Planning: Tours are meticulously planned with considerations for safety and convenience. For international destinations, Barmy Army ensures compliance with local regulations and offers contingency plans, providing reassurance that can come at an additional cost.
STADIUM OR GROUNDS
Can I get a Carer/accessibility Ticket?
Please contact ashes@barmyarmy.com before booking with any requests for carers tickets and we will liaise directly with the grounds.
Can I pick where to sit in the ground?
We have a specific allocation with a dedicated section of seating within each stadium, allocated to us by the Cricket Australia Travel Office, your seating will be within the Barmy Army allocation.
Will I be seated together with the rest of my party?
We will sit you with everyone within your travel package booking. If you wish to be seated with other people that have booked escorted tours with us, you will need to inform us of this in writing, however this isn’t something we can 100% guarantee.
ACCOMMODATION
Can I Bespoke a Hotel and Ticket Package?
The individual H&T packages are going to start as a minimum of 6 nights with the option to add a night at either end should you wish, to make it an 8-night stay. For those that want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Sydney, we are offering a 9-night package.
Can I change hotel once I am on tour?
Once you have booked your hotels with us, it can’t be amended.
Can I make Travel Requests / Accommodation Requests / Seating Requests on a Barmy Army Tour?
Please enter this into the specified travel requests box during the booking journey.
E.g. Extra leg room, aisle seat, accessible seating
Bottom floor, near elevator, not near elevator
The requests cannot be guaranteed, however we will do our best to ensure your requests are met.
How can I upgrade my hotel?
In the booking journey, you will be able to select your chosen hotel.
Solo Traveller – why is my package more expensive per person than a couple?
A single supplement is an additional fee that solo travelers may need to pay when booking accommodations or tours designed for double occupancy. This charge helps cover the cost difference when only one person is using a space meant for two.
What rooms will you be offering for the Ashes?
We will be offering a selection of the following room types : Twin, a room for two with separate beds. Single, a room for one with a single bed, Double, a room for two with a shared bed.
TICKETS
Does the Priority Access Pass guarantee ticket only for the Ashes?
As part of our partnership with Cricket Australia we will be launching our Ashes 2025/26 programme in December 2024. As per the terms of the agreement we are contracted to only sell tickets in a package with a travel product. At this stage, we are unsure when Cricket Australia will be going on sale to the general public for Ashes tickets but we expect it to be early summer 2025. The only way to guarantee your ticket in the Barmy Army section for the Ashes is to buy a ticket through our programme. We are working hard in the background to get as many people as possible together in our allocation. We are confident we will be able to provide everyone with a product to suit them to guarantee their Ashes trip for 2025-26. From the independent fan wanting a budget hotel and tickets next to the trumpeter, to the person who wants their bucket trip of a lifetime and everything covered along the way. If you want more information on general ticketing please contact Cricket Australia directly.
Can I buy individual day tickets for the Ashes?
As part of our partnership with Cricket Australia we will be launching our Ashes 2025/26 programme in December 2024. As per the terms of the agreement we are contracted to only sell tickets in a package with a travel product. At this stage, we are unsure when Cricket Australia will be going on sale to the general public for Ashes tickets but we expect it to be early summer 2025. The only way to guarantee your ticket in the Barmy Army section for the Ashes is to buy a ticket through our programme. We are working hard in the background to get as many people as possible together in our allocation. We are confident we will be able to provide everyone with a product to suit them to guarantee their Ashes trip for 2025-26. From the independent fan wanting a budget hotel and tickets next to the trumpeter, to the person who wants their bucket trip of a lifetime and everything covered along the way. If you want more information on general ticketing please contact Cricket Australia directly.
Can I buy ticket only for the Ashes?
As part of our partnership with Cricket Australia we will be launching our Ashes 2025/26 programme in December 2024. As per the terms of the agreement we are contracted to only sell tickets in a package with a travel product. At this stage, we are unsure when Cricket Australia will be going on sale to the general public for Ashes tickets but we expect it to be early summer 2025. The only way to guarantee your ticket in the Barmy Army section for the Ashes is to buy a ticket through our programme. We are working hard in the background to get as many people as possible together in our allocation. We are confident we will be able to provide everyone with a product to suit them to guarantee their Ashes trip for 2025-26. From the independent fan wanting a budget hotel and tickets next to the trumpeter, to the person who wants their bucket trip of a lifetime and everything covered along the way. If you want more information on general ticketing please contact Cricket Australia directly.
Cricket Australia Ticket Only Release
Cricket Australia will release their ticket only allocation to the public in June 2025.
Can I re-sell my tickets that are included in my travel package?
After purchasing your tour, the tickets are non-transferable. You will receive your tickets when you’re in destination.
Will I be refunded my match day tickets if I decide not to attend a particular day of a test match?
The tickets we provide as part of your package, are 5-day ticket passes, therefore no refund will be provided for unused tickets.
Is there a maximum number of people I can purchase Ashes tickets for?
You can book as many tickets as you like, however they have to be purchased with a hotel room and there is a maximum of two tickets per room.
EVENTS
Can I meet up with travellers in my group before the tour?
If you’ve booked a tour package you’ll have the option to join our tour WhatsApp Broadcast group before departure to begin group introductions! We find this is a great way to meet old friends and make new ones.
How will I make new friends on tour?
If you’ve booked an escorted tour, our friendly bunch of Tour Managers will be there to help the tour group bond and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialise and make new friends.
You’ll also have the option to join the tour Whatsapp group where social plans are made.
If you’ve booked a hotel & ticket package, we recommend booking our pre-test event like Barmy Bingo and visting our HQ’s, to meet your fellow Barmy Army Travel Members.
Will there be any events pre/post tests & where? How do I purchase event tickets?
Yes, we have a wide range of events over the course of the tour, including, Barmy Bingo, Charity Parties, Christmas Day & New Years Eve celebrations. Further details will be coming soon.
MISC
Do I need to be a member to purchase an Ashes escorted tour?
Each escorted tour includes 12 months Barmy Army Membership.
If you are an existing Member at the time of booking: The value of the Membership – £45 – will be deducted from your package.
If you are not an existing Member and if the booking date is more than 12 months before the Tour: your Membership will be extended until the end of January 2026.
How to do I redeem my Priority Access Pass or Pre Payment Plan?
You will be sent a voucher code prior to booking your package. This can be entered at the checkout page before you make a payment.
I have medication to take, do I need to declare it?
We advise speaking with your GP for up-to-date advice on declaring medicine when travelling to another country.
The government wesbite Travel Health Pro also provides up to date information: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-and-travel
Please notify us if you have any medical equipment or medication that requires permission from the airline to travel with if you are on any of our packages including flights.
What vaccines will I need to travel to Australia?
We advise speaking to a travel health professional about recommended vaccinations.
What is the medical/first aid procedure whilst I am on tour?
Please call the emergency line for Australia and as soon as is possible, contact your tour manager or call the Barmy Army emergency phone number which will be provided to you in your tour documentation, and our team will assist you.
What are the Ashes dates?
2025/26 NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes series dates:
Perth Test (West Test): Perth Stadium | Nov 21-25
Brisbane Test (Day/Night Test): Gabba | Dec 4-8
Adelaide Test (Christmas Test): Adelaide Oval | Dec 17-21
Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test): MCG | Dec 26-30
Sydney Test (New Year’s Test): SCG | Jan 4-8
What are the Barmy Army songs?
The Barmy Army songs are chants created by England cricket fans to boost team morale, engage supporters, and add a fun, interactive atmosphere during matches. They also serve to celebrate players and reinforce the group’s unique identity and tradition.
What is the Pre Payment Plan?
If you have questions about your Pre Payment Plan please refer to their Terms and Conditions. Also to note, product is now off-sale and no longer available to purchase.
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