Photo by 17 Ways to Save Money on Football Away Days
Travelling to watch your team play away matches is one of the highlights of being a football fan. However, it often comes with a hefty price tag. With the Premier League fixtures for the 2024/25 season announced, fans are already planning their away days. But what can you do to bring the cost of such a trip down?
Early Planning is Key
Before we dive into the tips, it’s essential to remember that early planning is crucial in finding the best deals on tickets, accommodation, and transportation. Researching in advance can help you save a significant amount of money.
Opt for Off-Peak Travel
Train and bus tickets are often cheaper during non-rush hours. If you can afford to travel down the night before, consider travelling on weekdays rather than weekends, as transportation and accommodation costs are usually lower.
Use Fare Comparison Websites and Apps
Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Rome2rio can help you compare prices across different modes of transport, including trains, buses, and car rentals.
Travel as a Group
Coordinate with other fans and travel together as a group. Many transport providers offer group discounts, which can significantly reduce costs. Plus, travelling with fellow fans adds to the fun and camaraderie of the experience.
Avoid Baggage Fees
Travel light to avoid baggage fees charged or additional charges for oversized luggage on trains or buses. Pack only the essentials and consider wearing your team’s shirt instead of carrying it in your luggage.
Use Local Transport Passes
If you need to use public transportation to get around the city or town, look into purchasing multi-day or unlimited travel passes, which often provide better value than buying individual tickets for each journey.
Accommodation Hacks
Stay Outside City Centres
Accommodation in city centres tends to be more expensive, so look for hotels or rental properties located slightly outside of the centre where prices are lower. Use public transportation or walk to the stadium to save further on costs.
Book Accommodation Early
Just like with transport, booking your accommodation well in advance can save you a significant amount of money, so keep an eye out for early booking discounts and deals on hotel booking websites.
Negotiate Hotel Rates
When booking accommodation directly with a hotel, don’t hesitate to negotiate the rates, especially if you’re staying for multiple nights or booking multiple rooms. Sometimes hotels are willing to offer discounts to secure your booking.
Consider Alternative Accommodation Options
Hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb rentals are often cheaper options than hotels and can provide a unique and authentic local experience.
Ticket Hacks
Be Flexible with Seating
Opt for cheaper seating options in the stadium. While they might not offer the best view, you’ll still be part of the action and can save a significant amount compared to premium seating.
Check for Fan Club Discounts
Many clubs offer discounts to their fan club members for away games. Joining the fan club could give you access to discounted tickets, exclusive travel packages, and other perks.
Avoid Booking Fees
Book tickets directly from the sports club or authorised ticket sellers to avoid extra booking fees charged by third-party websites or ticket resellers.
More Money-Saving Tips
If you’re eligible, make sure to take advantage of student or senior discounts on transportation, accommodation, and event tickets (but remember to carry relevant identification to prove your eligibility for these discounts).
Share expenses with fellow fans whenever possible, splitting costs for accommodation, transportation, and meals which can significantly reduce the financial burden of the trip.
Follow airlines, hotels, and clubs on social media for exclusive deals, flash sales, and promotional offers - sometimes, they announce discounts or giveaways that are not available elsewhere.
And finally… avoid spending extra money on overpriced stadium food by packing your own snacks and drinks. Many stadiums allow fans to bring their own food - but remember that you won’t be able to take your own alcoholic drinks into the ground.
Image: A packed football stadium
How many away days are you planning on embarking on next season? What’s your longest round trip? Share your thoughts, additional tips, and questions in the comments below.
Image: Football fans cheering
