Scratch cards remain one of the most popular forms of instant-win games available across the UK. For some, picking up the occasional card is a bit of light entertainment. For others, especially those planning events or promotions, the idea of buying multiple cards—or even an entire roll—may sound appealing.
But is it possible to buy scratch cards in bulk? And just how many cards come in a full roll? These are questions that often come up among curious players and event organisers alike.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what a typical roll contains and what the current rules say about buying in larger quantities. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply wondering how it all works, read on for a clear breakdown of what to expect.
The number of scratch cards in a roll isn’t fixed, as it varies based on the price of the individual card and the provider. Typically, a roll contains anywhere from 30 to 150 cards, depending on the game and value.
For National Lottery scratch cards, rolls are packaged by card price, and the total value per pack is often marked on the back of each card. Here’s a typical breakdown:
These packaging guidelines help maintain consistent total value within each roll, even though the total number of cards varies by price point.
Under current National Lottery rules, players are limited to purchasing a maximum of 10 scratchcards per transaction. While this doesn’t prevent someone from buying several cards at once, it does mean that acquiring an entire roll or large quantities in one go is no longer allowed in a single purchase.
Retailers also have some discretion in how they manage sales. Even when the 10-card limit is followed, shop staff can choose to refuse a sale if they feel the purchase is excessive or could affect availability for other customers.
It’s also worth noting that each scratchcard must be scanned individually at the till, which can make even modest purchases a slow process. These measures are designed to support responsible play and ensure fair access for everyone.
Scratch cards are occasionally used as novelty gifts or favours at weddings and other special events, offering guests an entertaining and potentially rewarding surprise. However, with the National Lottery’s current limit of 10 scratchcards per transaction, if you’re hoping to buy in larger quantities, you will need to plan ahead.
This might mean spreading purchases out over multiple visits or coordinating with different retailers.
It’s also essential to check that all cards have been properly activated by the retailer before they’re handed out. Unactivated scratch cards cannot be used to claim any prizes, so confirming this step ensures everything is in order on the day.
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Due to the National Lottery’s current limit of 10 scratchcards per transaction, purchasing a full roll in one go is no longer possible. While licensed retailers continue to offer a range of scratch cards, they are required to follow this limit at the point of sale.
For players looking for alternatives, online scratch card games offer a convenient option. Available through licensed platforms, these digital games often replicate the look and feel of traditional scratch cards while removing the limitations of physical purchases.
For example, platforms like Red Casino provide a variety of themed scratch card games, with any winnings automatically credited to the player’s account—removing the need to claim prizes in person.
The number of winning scratch cards in a roll can vary and is determined by the overall odds of the game, not by a fixed distribution within each pack. For example, if the odds are listed as 1 in 3, this refers to the average chance across a large number of tickets—not a guarantee that every third card in a single roll will be a winner.
This means that even if players purchase several cards—or an entire rollover time—there’s no assurance of a win. The advertised odds reflect averages over time across all tickets printed for that particular game.
While buying in larger quantities may be tempting, particularly for events or themed promotions, it’s important to remember that National Lottery rules now limit purchases to 10 scratchcards per transaction.
As with any form of gambling, scratch cards should be enjoyed in moderation. If you choose to play them, it’s always best to set a clear budget, stay within it, and keep in mind that wins are never guaranteed.
*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.