Parlay bets, commonly known as accumulators or accas in the UK, allow bettors to combine multiple selections into one wager. While the concept may seem unfamiliar at first, understanding how parlays work could potentially help you decide whether this type of bet suits your approach.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to structure these bets, what the odds are, and the common questions people ask, you’re in the right place.
What Is a Parlay Bet?
A parlay bet combines two or more selections into one bet. Each selection, or “leg,” needs to win for the overall bet to be successful. These legs can come from different sports or several markets within the same event, such as football fixtures or racing outcomes.
The return on a parlay is higher compared to placing each selection as a separate single. This is because the odds for each leg are multiplied. This potential for a higher return comes with increased risk.
In the UK, the term “accumulator” is often used for four or more selections. Doubles and trebles refer to two and three selections, respectively. The principle is the same: all legs must win for the return to apply.
Bookmakers may have different rules regarding how many legs you can include, which markets qualify, and what minimum odds are required. It could be useful to read the terms before placing a parlay or acca.
Why Do Gamblers Love Parlays?
Some prefer parlays because the potential return rises as you add more selections. For example, backing three teams to win at decimal odds of 2.00, 3.00, and 4.00 in a parlay results in a total return far greater than if backing them separately. This is because the odds are multiplied rather than added.
Parlays can also allow you to engage with several events using a smaller stake. This could be useful if you are interested in multiple matches on the same day or across a weekend
Most online platforms offer quick options to combine selections in your bet slip. The available sports and markets can differ between operators, so checking the site’s rules before you confirm your selections might be helpful.
Example of a 3-Leg Parlay Bet
Imagine placing a three-leg parlay on Premier League football using a £2 stake with the following selections:
- Manchester City to win (odds: 2.00)
- Arsenal to win (odds: 1.80)
- Newcastle to win (odds: 2.50)
All three results need to win. If one of the teams fails to do so, the parlay does not return anything.
If all selections win, the combined odds would be: 2.00 × 1.80 × 2.50 = 9.00. Multiply that by your £2 stake for a total potential return of £18. This includes your initial stake.
Odds may appear as decimals or fractions depending on your chosen bookmaker. Some operators also place limits on the number of legs you can add. It could be worth reviewing the terms on your account to understand any such restrictions.
Are Parlays a Good Bet?
Parlays bring several selections together into a single wager. This increases the difficulty of winning, as all legs must win. Compared to placing individual singles, the chances of a successful parlay are lower.
Adding more legs increases the overall odds but reduces the probability of a win. For instance, placing three selections each at decimal odds of 2.00 would give a combined probability of 12.5%. Adding a fourth selection at the same odds lowers it to 6.25%.
While the combined odds might seem appealing, each added leg reduces the likelihood of a return. Some players weigh this risk when deciding how many legs to include. Bookmakers typically display the total odds in your bet slip, along with your potential return.
Operators may also apply maximum payout limits, or restrict certain combinations. Players should always remember to gamble responsibly and within their means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
What Are the Odds of Winning a Parlay?
Odds in a parlay are worked out by multiplying the odds of each individual selection. This increases the total payout potential, but lowers the chance of winning.
If you back three outcomes, each at decimal odds of 2.00, your total odds become 8.00. However, the chance of that bet winning drops to 12.5% because you are multiplying the probability of each individual outcome (0.5 × 0.5 × 0.5).
Adding more legs increases the risk and reduces your chances. Most sites will show the combined odds in your slip, and some may offer a rough estimate of your chances based on the selections.
Parlays vs Accumulators: What’s the Difference?
“Parlay” and “accumulator” both refer to a bet that joins multiple selections. The main difference is terminology. “Parlay” is used in North America. In the UK, you are more likely to see “accumulator” or “acca.” A double means two selections, and a treble means three.
In both cases, the outcome depends on all selections winning. If one leg fails, the bet is unsuccessful. Betting sites may use either term depending on their location or the audience they serve. If unsure, consider checking how the platform lists these bets in the betting interface.
Where the Word “Parlay” Comes From In Betting
The word “parlay” originated in North America in the 19th century. It likely derives from the French “parler,” meaning “to speak,” although in betting it came to describe carrying forward winnings from one bet into another.
While “accumulator” is used more commonly in the UK, “parlay” may appear on international platforms. The mechanics remain the same regardless of the word used. If a betting site uses both terms, it usually outlines the structure clearly in its help pages or bet slip.
How To Place a Parlay Bet
To place a parlay, start by selecting a licensed bookmaker—either online or at a high street location.
Choose at least two outcomes from the markets offered. As you add selections, they will appear on your betting slip. Look for the option to combine them as a “multiple,” “parlay,” or “acca.” Enter your stake and check the combined odds before placing the bet.
Operators may apply different rules around maximum legs or eligible events. Some platforms also offer features like early settlement or partial payouts. These are subject to the operator’s terms and may not apply to every bet.
If betting in person, ask a member of staff if you’re unsure how to fill in the slip. For online bets, review the terms linked from the site or app.
