There’s no missing the fact that it is World Cup season once again. With all the buzzing about the matches and talk of who is going to win, it might be hard to plan out ways to save money on this summer’s biggest game. However, with a few simple tips you should be able to enjoy your favorite team without having to spend too much of your hard earned money. Whether you’re on a no cost budget or just want to save a few extra dollars on some of the bigger events, these tips will certainly suit your household’s soccer needs. So, sit back and cheer on your favorite team because it’ll be a few more years before you can enjoy the excitement of the World Cup again.
1. Watch Online
A lot of cable channels won’t cater to come of the least popular games, which can pose a big problem if you happen to be a fan. Of course, if you don’t have cable then you will probably miss out on a lot of the broadcasts anyway. Instead of breaking down and ordering some premium channels you may want to simply connect to the internet instead. There are a lot of websites dedicated to providing all of the World Cup coverage to you at absolutely no cost. All you need to do is have a connection that is able to stream. Some websites might actually allow you to catch the action live, that is, if you’re willing to stay up late enough for some of the games. If you’re looking an easy access to the games then you might want to check out your favorite console. A lot of premium subscribers to XBOX and Playstation services can check out the games without even having to do a search. Here, you will also find many game highlights for those who don’t have time for a full game.
2. Make Your Own Jersey
Part of celebrating the big games is showing off your favorite team and player by wearing a cool jersey. Of course, if you don’t have the money for a jersey you may feel a little left out. However, you shouldn’t have to break down and buy an over priced jersey just to show your pride in your team. Instead, grab so old t-shirt and make your own. If you don’t have anything old you’re willing to scrap you should be able to find some cheap blank shirts at a thrift store or in a bulk package. Once you have the shirt use paint pens, permanent markers or fabric paint to add some details. You can easily make a jersey, including name, number and team using easing techniques. Of course, you don’t have to limit your shirt to the classic jersey look. Instead, add as many words and numbers as you like, so you can really stand out amongst the jersey wearing crowd.
3. Make Snacks
With the World Cup comes many parties, snack sessions, and victory eating which means you’re going to need a whole lot of snacks to make it through the competition. There are going to be a lot of tempting World Cup themed snacks on the market, which should probably be avoided at all cost. They tend to be a little higher in price than things you will normally buy for the family. You may also want to avoid all pre-made snacks anyway. This could run your grocery bill up considerably, which won’t do you any favors. Instead, try making your own snacks from scratch. You can even design them to match the teams that are playing. Try looking up some international snack recipes to see if there is anything cheap and easy to make. If international snacking isn’t your family’s thing then try make colorful treats to represent teams that are playing or simply your favorite treat. Either way, your homemade treats will be a hit and will be healthier for the family than the pre-made goodies.
4. Buy Used/Clearanced Gear
The World Cup tends to inspire kids to get out there and play the game, which means you will probably be signing your child up for a soccer club this summer. This is a great way for kids to keep busy and get some exercise and usually doesn’t cost a whole lot of money. However, you may want to think on where you choose to get their protective gear. There are a lot of used sports stores that will carry items such as padding and sometimes even cleats. These items are usually in fantastic condition, because kids grow so quickly, so it will seem as if your child is getting a brand new product. You may also be able to find the gear you need in a clearance section, especially if you shop off season. This may be a little bit harder to do during the World Cup, but if you look hard online there will certainly be a few deals that will make you smile.
5. Book ahead
If you’ve managed to plan out a trip to see the World Cup live then it might benefit you to book ahead of time. This may be hard for the early games, but you still might have a chance to get some amazing deals for later in the season. The best thing you can do is plan out your trip before the next World Cup takes place. This will allow you to book a hotel, flight and tickets before the rush hits. You will get a better deal and will be assured that you will have your chance to see a game. Although it might be a little late to do so now, you can still try to get a good deal on a hotel room later in the season. Try to talk with your travel agent to see if there are any opening that will give you a good deal on unclaimed rooms. You may also be able to find flights for cheap if you’re planning on going to the later games. However, acting fast is your best chance of finding the perfect deal for you.
6. Bundle Deals
When you’re traveling it is important to try to bundle as much as you possibly can. Make sure you talk to your travel agent about World Cup deals before you secure any plans. A lot of agencies will be able to connect you to a package that includes airline, rental car, hotel and even some of the tickets to the game. Of course, this isn’t always the choice, so try to work it where you can get as much of your items in a bundle as you can. This is where you will save hundreds of dollars on your trip. With the bundled deals you will pretty much receive a discount on each item in the deal. However, you should always make sure to add up the costs individually before you accept any bundle deal. Sometimes they won’t turn out as helpful as they seem, but once you have the right one you’re set for a great trip. You may also want to look into food packages or tourism packages that will help you enjoy other aspects of the country when the games are over.
7. Public Transportation
Whether you’re abroad or just heading somewhere to watch the game, you should always consider public transportation. Of course, it might be a lot more frugal to use public transit whenever you’re abroad. This can prevent you from having to get a rental car which will also cut down on gasoline cost as well as parking fees that you’ll find all over the city. Usually you can get a pass to take transit all day, or over a period of days which will help you cut down on costs significantly. Make sure you understand your routes and know basic questions and answers in the country’s official language before you tackle the system though. If you’re staying home and just want to see the game in another location then public transit is still a great option. You can easily pay for a day pass so you can enjoy the game without worrying about parking, spending money on gas or having to find a ride home if you plan on drinking.
8. Keep it Local
When it comes to eating and drinking abroad you should always keep the local rule in mind. During the World Cup there is a good chance that a lot of foods and drinks will be double their original price. This is especially true of restaurants that are designed to cater to tourist. So, when you walk into a restaurant try to order things that are as local as possible. One rule to utilize is to avoid any beer that you might drink at home. This is obviously going to be imported, thus will cost you an arm and a leg. Foods are easy to find cheaply if you don’t try to order foods you would at home. Try to go to mom and pop restaurants as often as possible. If you aren’t’ sure about ordering then try to find a market place. Here, you will be able to fund cheap fruits and vegetables that will tide you over between meals. This will also allow you to eat less expensive meals.
9. Find Happy Hour
Sometimes it is hard for fans to catch games that aren’t normally broadcast on regular cable. If this is the case then you may want to look for a bar or restaurant that does a happy hour. You will a lot more luck in a sports establishment, so make sure to do your research before choosing a place. During Happy Hour you should be able to order cheap drinks and appetizers while you watch the game you wanted. You may even consider inviting friends so you can split the prices of pitchers of beer and snacks. Try to find cheaper beers and snacks on the menu if you’re looking to spend as little money as possible though. Although you will be spending some this way, you won’t have to spend a huge amount on the station that broadcasts the game you want to see. You will also be able to spend some time with friends and have the World Cup experience you’ve been looking forward to over the last few years.
10. Try Last Minute Sales
If you have a flexible schedule then last minute sales are a great way to save a little money. A lot of tickets for games can go unsold, or there may be a few unexpected empty seats that need to be filled, which is where being fast comes in handy. You should be able to swoop in and grab these tickets at a discounted price. Of course, there is no guarantee, so if you feel like you absolutely have to be at the game then try to book ahead. This task is usually better for people who are already on vacation in the area, as they will already have plans if the tickets don’t work out. You can also use this means on flights. A lot of airlines will sale standby tickets which will allow you to show up and get on a plane in a hurry if there is an empty seat. This is also great for people who can work with a flexible schedule and have an easy way of finding a hotel room or staying with friends abroad. You may also want to consider this for hotels, but make sure you have a backup plan in case it doesn’t work out.
The World Cup only comes around every few years, so make sure you make the most out of this years. With these tips you should be able to find an easy way to enjoy the games while keeping a frugal attitude throughout the season!
