If you’ve ever heard people talk about betting on the Irish Lottery through UK bookmakers, you might have come across the term “combination bet.” It can sound complicated, but it really just describes a way of splitting one set of numbers into smaller groups, giving you several separate bets in a single go.
This guide will break down how the Irish Lottery works, what a combination bet actually involves, and how it differs from placing one straightforward line. By the end, you’ll understand the basics and be able to decide whether this type of bet fits with the way you want to gamble.
What Is a Combination Bet on Irish Lotto?
The official Irish Lotto draw selects six numbers and one bonus ball from 1 to 47. To enter in Ireland, you buy a ticket with six numbers.
However, in the UK, you cannot purchase an official Irish Lotto ticket through bookmakers. Instead, some licensed operators let you place fixed-odds bets on the outcome of the draw. That means you are betting on which numbers you think will appear, and the bookmaker pays any winnings at set odds, not from the official prize pool.
A combination bet (sometimes called a “combo bet”) is a way of turning one group of chosen numbers into several smaller bets. For example, if you pick four numbers, the bookmaker splits these into every possible smaller grouping, such as doubles (two numbers) or trebles (three numbers). Each smaller grouping counts as a separate bet, and you pay a stake on each one.
This style of betting is often used by people who want to cover more than one possible outcome without having to pick each line manually. It is worth noting that while it broadens the coverage, it also increases the total stake because you are paying for more than one line at once.
Irish Lotto Combination Bet Example
Let’s say you pick five numbers: 7, 12, 23, 31, and 44. If you ask the bookmaker for a combination bet focusing on trebles, those five numbers will be split into every possible group of three.
- 7, 12, 23
- 7, 12, 31
- 7, 12, 44
- 7, 23, 31
- 7, 23, 44
- 7, 31, 44
- 12, 23, 31
- 12, 23, 44
- 12, 31, 44
- 23, 31, 44
That gives you 10 separate trebles. If your stake is £1 per line, the total cost of the bet is £10. If one of these trebles matches the numbers drawn, the bookmaker settles that winning line according to their odds table.
The important thing to remember is that your total outlay rises depending on how many lines your chosen numbers can be broken into. A larger set of numbers leads to more possible combinations, and therefore a higher total stake.
Should You Play Combination Bets?
Whether you use a combination bet or stick to a single line is entirely a matter of preference. A combination bet spreads your chosen numbers across several lines, giving you more ways your numbers could potentially appear in the draw. On the other hand, it increases the overall cost because each line carries its own stake.
For example, a single £1 line is straightforward: if it wins, you get paid according to the bookmaker’s odds. A five-number combination made into trebles costs £10, but you might win on more than one line if several of your numbers are drawn.
It’s important to remember that this is still a game of chance. The Irish Lottery results are random, and no betting system can guarantee a return.
Some people prefer the simplicity and lower cost of one line, while others like the wider coverage of a combination bet. Neither approach is “better” – it depends on how much you want to spend and how you prefer to place your bets.
How To Bet on Irish Lottery
In the UK, you cannot enter the official Irish Lottery unless you buy a ticket in Ireland or through the official Irish Lottery website while physically located in Ireland. What you can do in the UK is bet on the outcome through bookmakers that are licensed by the Gambling Commission.
Here’s how that works:
- You select numbers, usually between one and five, depending on the bookmaker’s rules.
- You choose your stake, which is how much you are betting per line.
- The bookmaker pays out fixed odds if your numbers match the results of the official Irish Lotto draw.
It’s crucial to note that you are not part of the official Irish Lotto prize pool. You will not receive the Irish Lotto jackpot or share in its prize fund. Instead, your bet is settled by the bookmaker at the odds they advertise.
Before placing a bet, check:
- The bookmaker’s odds for matching different numbers.
- Any maximum payout limits.
- The cost of the total bet, especially with combination bets.
Play Casino Games Online at Clover Casino
While you cannot play lottery games such as the Irish Lottery at Clover Casino, there is still plenty to explore. Clover Casino is authorised and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.
You will find a range of online casino games, including roulette, bingo, and slots. Each game comes with clear information on how it works, so you can browse and choose what appeals to you.
If you want to see our full range of online casino games, you can join or log in to Clover Casino to look around at your own pace.
All games are created for entertainment and rely on chance. Only spend what feels affordable for you. If you ever want to set limits or take a break, tools and support are available. Please play responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**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.