Chiefs Away Game Travel Guide: Tips for Road Games
Traveling to watch the Kansas City Chiefs play away games is an exciting adventure. It lets you see new cities. You can meet other fans. And you cheer for your team in enemy territory. This guide will help you plan your trip. We cover everything from tickets to hotels. Follow these tips for a great experience.
Why Travel to Chiefs Away Games?
Going to away games is special. You represent Chiefs Kingdom in another city. The energy is different from home games. You can turn a football weekend into a mini-vacation. Many fans make it an annual tradition. It creates lasting memories with friends and family.
According to the NFL, away game travel has grown in popularity. More than 20% of fans travel for at least one game each season. The Chiefs have a passionate fan base. You will often see many red jerseys in opposing stadiums.
Planning Your Trip
Choosing Which Game to Attend
Look at the Chiefs schedule early. Pick a game that works for you. Consider the distance. Think about the city. Some places are easier to reach than others. Games in warmer climates can be nice in winter. Check if the game is on a holiday weekend. That might affect travel costs.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Set a budget before you book anything. A typical away game trip can cost $500-$1500 per person. This includes tickets, travel, hotel, food, and souvenirs. Prices change based on the city and time of year. Book early to save money.
Use apps like Hopper to find good flight deals. Set price alerts for hotels on Booking.com. Being flexible with dates can help you save.
Getting Tickets
Official Channels
Buy tickets from official sources first. The Chiefs website sometimes offers away game tickets. You can also check the home team's website. This ensures your tickets are real. Prices might be higher but it is safe.
Secondary Markets
Sites like StubHub and Ticketmaster Resale are good options. Compare prices across platforms. Read reviews of sellers. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true. They often are scams.
Seating Tips
Look for seats in the visitor's section. This is where other Chiefs fans will be. It creates a fun group atmosphere. Check stadium maps before buying. Avoid sitting in the front rows if you want to see the whole field.
Travel and Transportation
Flying to the Game
Book flights at least 6-8 weeks early for the best prices. Consider flying into alternative airports. They might be cheaper. For example, in Denver, you could fly into Colorado Springs. It is a short drive away.
Driving to the Game
Driving can be a good option for closer cities. Plan your route in advance. Check for road construction. Leave early to avoid traffic. Use apps like Waze for real-time updates.
Public Transportation
Many cities have good public transit. Research how to get from your hotel to the stadium. Some hotels offer shuttle services. Others are within walking distance. This can save you money on parking.
Where to Stay
Hotels Near the Stadium
Staying close to the stadium is convenient. You can walk to the game. But these hotels often cost more. Book early because they fill up fast.
Alternative Accommodations
Consider staying further away. You can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Airbnb might offer cheaper options. Look for places with free parking if you drive.
Chiefs Fan Hotels
Some hotels become unofficial gathering spots for away fans. Check fan forums before your trip. Staying where other Chiefs fans are can be more fun. You can pre-game together.
Game Day Experience
Tailgating Tips
Tailgating rules vary by stadium. Some allow visiting fans to tailgate. Others have restrictions. Check the stadium's website beforehand. Bring Chiefs gear to show your spirit. Be respectful of home fans.
Stadium Policies
Each stadium has different rules. Know what items are allowed inside. Most ban large bags. Some have clear bag policies. Check size limits on their website. Arrive early to get through security.
Staying Safe
Most NFL games are safe for away fans. But be smart. Don't engage with aggressive home fans. Stay with your group. Know where security is located. Keep your phone charged in case you need help.
Exploring the City
Must-See Attractions
Turn your trip into a vacation. Research the city's top attractions. For example, in Nashville, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. In Denver, explore the Rocky Mountains. Make the most of your visit.
Local Food and Drink
Try the local cuisine. Each city has its specialties. In Buffalo, try the wings. In Chicago, deep dish pizza. Ask locals for recommendations. They know the best spots.
Chiefs Bars
Some cities have bars that cater to Chiefs fans. These are great places to watch other games. Or to meet up before your game. Search online for "Chiefs bars" in your destination city.
Practical Tips Section
Here are key tips for a successful trip:
- Pack layers - stadium weather can change
- Bring a portable phone charger
- Carry cash for vendors who don't take cards
- Wear comfortable shoes - you'll do lots of walking
- Download your tickets to your phone before leaving
- Have a meeting spot in case your group gets separated
- Take photos of your parking spot location
- Stay hydrated - especially at high altitude cities
- Know the emergency exits at the stadium
- Have fun and represent Chiefs Kingdom well!
FAQ Section
How early should I book my trip?
Book 2-3 months in advance for best prices. Flights and hotels get more expensive closer to game day.
Is it safe to wear Chiefs gear in opposing stadiums?
Yes, generally it is safe. Most NFL fans are respectful. Avoid confrontations with drunk fans.
Can I buy tickets at the stadium?
Sometimes, but it's risky. Games often sell out. Buy in advance to guarantee entry.
What should I do if I lose my ticket?
Go to the ticket office with your ID and purchase confirmation. They can usually reissue tickets.
How do I find other Chiefs fans at away games?
Look for the visitor's section. Often there are pre-game meetups organized on fan forums.
What's the best way to get to the stadium?
Public transportation is often easiest. Driving means dealing with traffic and expensive parking.
Can I bring a camera to the game?
Most stadiums allow small cameras. But professional equipment with long lenses is usually prohibited.
Real Examples
John from Kansas City shares his experience: "I went to the Raiders game in Las Vegas. I booked three months early. Got a hotel within walking distance. Met other Chiefs fans at a tailgate. We won the game! It was an amazing trip."
Sarah from Overland Park says: "My family does one away game each year. We make it a vacation. Last year we saw the Chiefs play in Miami. We spent extra days at the beach. The kids loved it."
Statistics with Sources
According to the NFL, away fans travel an average of 400 miles for games. The Chiefs have one of the largest traveling fan bases. About 15% of attendees at away games are Chiefs fans.
A survey by Ticketmaster shows that Thursday night games have 20% fewer traveling fans. Sunday games are most popular for travel.
The AAA reports that hotel prices near stadiums increase by 35% on game weekends.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning
- Check the Chiefs schedule when it is released
- Pick which away game you want to attend
- Set a budget for your trip
- Book flights 2-3 months in advance
- Reserve your hotel near the stadium
- Purchase game tickets from a reliable source
- Research the city and plan additional activities
- Pack appropriate clothing for the weather
- Arrange transportation to the stadium
- Have a backup plan for unexpected issues
Conclusion
Traveling to Chiefs away games is a rewarding experience. With good planning, it can be affordable and fun. You get to see new places. You meet fellow fans. And you support our team on the road. Use this guide to plan your perfect away game trip. Go Chiefs!
Remember to be a good representative of Chiefs Kingdom. Respect home fans. Follow stadium rules. And most importantly, have a great time cheering on our team. Share your away game experiences with other fans. Your stories might inspire them to take their own trips.