Trading at events means speed, mobility, and reliability are critical. Whether it’s a weekend market, trade fair, street food festival, or local exhibition, event traders need a card terminal that can keep up with fast-paced sales, unpredictable environments, and on-the-go transactions.
Modern card terminals have transformed how event traders operate enabling seamless payments, fewer missed sales, and better customer experiences.
Here’s everything traders need to know about choosing the right card terminal for event sales.
Why Event Traders Need Reliable Card Terminals
1. Fast Checkout = More Sales
Events often bring short bursts of high footfall. A slow payment system creates long queues and frustrated customers. Quick tap-and-go terminals help speed up the checkout process and reduce walkaways.
2. Mobile Flexibility
Event traders rarely have access to fixed locations or stable internet. A card terminal that supports 4G, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth ensures payments can be taken from anywhere — whether you’re inside a tent or at an open-air stall.
3. Secure Transactions
Security matters, especially when handling hundreds of small transactions in public spaces. Card terminals with end-to-end encryption and PCI compliance protect both the business and its customers.
4. No Cash Hassles
Carrying and handling cash at busy events isn’t just inconvenient — it’s a risk. Card terminals reduce the need for physical cash, helping traders operate with more confidence and less hassle.
7 Best Card Terminals Among UK Event Traders1. Paymentsave Card Terminal
Ideal for busy markets and events, Paymentsave offers a wireless card machine that works over 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. There are no setup fees or long-term contracts, and it includes 24/7 UK-based support. Accepts contactless, chip & PIN, Apple Pay, and Google Pay making it perfect for vendors needing fast, reliable payment solutions on the move.
2. Zettle by PayPal
Zettle’s lightweight reader connects to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth and integrates with an easy-to-use POS app. With a flat 1.75% transaction fee and no ongoing costs, it’s ideal for boutique stalls, craft vendors, and part-time traders who need style and flexibility.
3. Square Terminal
A sleek, all-in-one terminal that combines a touchscreen, receipt printer, and card reader no need to connect it to other devices. It accepts contactless, chip & PIN, and mobile wallet payments, and features a flat 1.75% fee. Great for event traders who handle high footfall and want a professional, standalone setup.
4. SumUp Solo
SumUp Solo is a touchscreen, pocket-sized device with built-in Wi-Fi and SIM card support. No need for phone pairing. It’s ideal for solo traders or those looking for ultra-portable hardware with a simple interface, long battery life, and a flat 1.69% transaction fee.
5. myPOS Go 2
An affordable, fully mobile card machine that comes with a built-in SIM card offering free data across Europe. It accepts all major card types and mobile payments, has no monthly fees, and offers instant settlement to your myPOS account. A solid choice for traders at international events or rural UK locations.
6. Dojo Go
Dojo Go offers fast setup, next-day transfers, and a powerful touchscreen terminal that works via Wi-Fi and 4G. The terminal includes strong security features, real-time sales data, and custom receipts. Ideal for professional vendors who want speed, security, and robust reporting at busy events.
7. Clover Flex
Clover Flex is a full-featured smart terminal with a built-in receipt printer, barcode scanner, and touchscreen interface. It supports Wi-Fi and 4G and integrates with inventory and staff management tools. Best suited for established vendors who need more than just payments — like reporting, loyalty programs, and POS functionality.
Conclusion
For event traders, a reliable card terminal is more than a payment tool it’s a sales enabler. The right terminal helps businesses move fast, serve more customers, and build lasting impressions.
Whether you’re a food vendor, market trader, or pop-up retailer, investing in a mobile-friendly, secure, and easy-to-use card terminal can significantly improve your trading day and your bottom line.