Travel Soccer Tournaments: Hotel Hacks 101

Alright, parents, let's get real! Traveling to soccer tournaments can be enjoyable, but without proper planning, it might feel like you're chasing after a runaway ball. So, how can we not only survive but also thrive while on the road?

As a soccer mom who has attended numerous tournaments, some close enough to return home to sleep, while others necessitate a hotel stay and a plane journey, today we'll specifically address those tournaments that are too far for a commute.

Making Travel Soccer Tournament Arrangements

Depending on your club and team you may be required to stay at a specific hotel, be provided a listing of hotels to choose from, or you may be able to select your own sleeping arrangements. The last option rarely happens, but you never know. 

Designated Hotel

This is the easiest, you just need to book your place before the room block fills up. To save money down the line, sign up for every hotel chain's rewards program. These programs are free, you just provide your membership number every time you book their hotel and eventually, you’ll get some free days. Meanwhile, they sometimes add rewards points to your account if any inconveniences arise, such as an issue with your air conditioning or they fail to clean your room. Don’t be shy, ask for some free points if you experience any troubles.

Money Saving Advice: Enroll in hotel loyalty programs, even if you don't stay at that specific chain often. You might eventually accumulate enough points for a complimentary night and receive superior treatment as a member! I once received a complimentary upgrade to a two-bedroom suite simply for being a member, and on another occasion, they provided me with complimentary breakfast vouchers.

Listing of Travel Soccer Hotels

If you are given a listing of hotel options, quickly start your research, before the best hotel options are sold out.

Things to consider:

• Where is the field in relation to the hotel? How far is the drive?  Account for rush hour travel to the tournament field based on the timing of your games. 
  

• Does the hotel have a full kitchen, microwave, or a refrigerator? Does it have a pool, gym, or restaurant?  Having hotel amenities like a kitchen, or at least a refrigerator and microwave, can help you save money by eating in. Whenever possible, we opt for tournament hotels that offer a kitchen. Pools are a fantastic way to pass the time and promote team bonding.  

• Which tournament hotels offer complimentary full hot breakfast?  A complimentary breakfast is great, a full hot breakfast is even better. Breakfast is another big money saver, and a time saver, especially if you have early games. It is much easier to eat in the hotel lobby, than travel out for breakfast while giving your player enough time to digest before the game. Waking up earlier to eat out also reduces sleep time. 
  

• Are there stores and restaurants near the hotel?  Having these options close to the hotel just makes it easier if you need to pick up a quick meal, snack, or if you have forgotten something at home.

Related Blog: Travel Soccer Savings: Tips to Travel Smart and Spend Less

Select Your Own Hotel for Your Travel Soccer Tournament

This rarely happens, but if it does, consider all of the questions listed under “Listing of Hotels” when choosing a place to stay. In addition, consider building your hotel rewards points or, if you have enough, use your points to save money. You could also consider teaming up with another family to share an Airbnb or Vrbo to save some money. 

Our next blog post, focused on travel soccer tournaments, will concentrate on pre-tournament preparation to maintain your peace of mind, packing essentials without going overboard, and tips for saving on meals. Stay tuned for more insights on thriving while on the road.

Meanwhile, check out youth soccer opportunities near you. We’ve created a comprehensive listing of soccer options, including futsal, winter programs, leagues, futsal, training programs, ID clinics, and more. Easily search, discover, and engage with opportunities to support the growth of your ambitious player.

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