Family-Friendly Soccer Travel: Why an RV Makes Sense

Family Friendly
Road Trip

Traveling to soccer tournaments and events can be an exciting adventure for families, but traditional travel plans with hotel rooms and separate cars often make it stressful—especially for young players and families with two kids or more. Choosing family friendly soccer travel with an RV allows parents and children to explore the country together, enjoy short trips between games, and create lasting memories without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking a cramped car.

An RV trip transforms the journey into a memorable experience. Kids have their own sleeping space, meals are more convenient, and parents can enjoy the comfort and flexibility of RV life. Whether your children are part of youth soccer leagues or just learning soccer skills, traveling by RV ensures that the field is always within reach, the family can spend quality time together, and fewer accommodations need to be booked.

From navigating between tournaments to stopping at scenic parks along the way, travel by RV allows families to combine sports, adventure, and downtime into a home on wheels. This guide will explore how to plan your RV trip, pack efficiently for soccer events, and make the most of the teamwork, confidence-building, and fun that come with traveling to soccer destinations as a family.

Why an RV Trip is Ideal for Soccer Families

An RV trip offers a unique way for families to enjoy soccer games and tournaments while minimizing the stress and hassle of travel sports. Here’s why traveling by RV is the perfect solution for soccer families:

Flexibility Between Soccer Events

With an RV, parents and children can easily travel from one tournament to the next without worrying about strict check-in times or hotel rooms.
Families can adjust schedules for short trips, game times, and sightseeing along the way, making each stop easily accessible and convenient.

Comfortable Sleeping Space and Meals

Kids and parents can enjoy their own sleeping space, reducing the stress of sharing small spaces in traditional accommodations.
An onboard kitchen allows families to prepare meals and snacks tailored to athletes’ needs, keeping young players energized for the soccer field.

Cost Savings and Convenience

Booking an RV rental is often more affordable than paying for multiple hotel rooms, especially for larger families.
Families can bring all necessary equipment, from cleats to soccer balls, without worrying about storage limitations.

Team Bonding and Positive Reinforcement

Traveling together in an RV encourages teamwork and positive reinforcement, as siblings, friends, or teammates share the experience of soccer trips.
Kids can practice soccer skills in open spaces at campgrounds or during rest stops, making the journey part of the athletic adventure.

Immersive Experience and Adventure

Beyond games, an RV trip allows families to explore local towns, parks, and nature trails, combining sports with adventure and cultural experiences.
Families can meet new friends, engage in community soccer programs, and enjoy downtime between games, creating lasting memories that extend beyond the event itself.

Choosing the Right Rental RV for Your Family

Selecting the right rental RV is essential for a successful travel experience. The size, layout, and amenities of your RV can make a big difference in comfort, convenience, and overall enjoyment.

1. Size Matters

Consider the number of kids and family members traveling. Families with two kids or more will benefit from an RV that offers multiple sleeping spaces and enough room to store sports gear.
A larger RV provides extra room for meals, activities, and downtime, ensuring limited spaces don't become an issue during longer road trips.

2. Layout and Amenities

Look for an RV with separate sleeping areas for children and parents, a kitchen for preparing meals, and a comfortable lounge area.
Amenities like a bathroom, storage for soccer equipment, and a designated space for kids to play or rest make a big difference during long weekend tournaments.

3. Ease of Driving and Parking

For families new to RV travel, choosing a model that’s easily accessible and simple to drive between host cities or soccer fields is important.
Consider factors like length, maneuverability, and whether the RV can fit in RV parks or near locations hosting the youth soccer events.

4. On-the-Road Comfort

A rental RV should offer reliable seating and safety features to keep young players comfortable during drives.
Space for snacks, entertainment, and games ensures that even long trips between games remain enjoyable.

5. Customization for Soccer Travel

Families can pack their RV with all the necessary essentials, including cleats, soccer balls, uniforms, and equipment.
Having all gear on hand reduces the need to haul items from hotel rooms and allows children to practice soccer skills or enjoy mini games at campgrounds along the way.

Cruise America RV Options

1. 30-Foot RV

Best for larger families or groups with two kids or more.
Offers multiple sleeping spaces, a full kitchen and bathroom amenities, and extra storage for soccer equipment and luggage.
Ideal for long road trips between multiple host cities or tournaments, providing comfort for children and parents alike.

2. 25-Foot RV

A versatile option for mid-sized families or small groups of friends traveling together.
Offers a balance of maneuverability and space, with enough room for sleeping, meals, and packing sports gear.
Perfect for families who want RV life comfort without the challenges of driving a larger vehicle.

3. 21-Foot RV

Great for smaller families or those traveling with just one or two kids.
Compact enough to handle short trips and parking near stadiums or soccer fields, yet still provides basic amenities and a cozy sleeping space.
Ideal for shorter weekend tournaments or single-city soccer events.

4. 19-Foot RV

Ideal for couples with a young child or very small families.
Offers simple driving and parking, while still giving enough room for meals and basic gear.
Perfect for short weekend trips, single-game adventures, or youth soccer events in nearby towns.

5. Pull-Behind Trailer

Suited for families who already have a tow vehicle and want to maximize RV space.
Offers flexibility in packing and sleeping space, as the trailer can detach when needed for local exploration.
Great for families who want to explore multiple soccer fields or parks during a single trip while keeping a mobile base.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size:

Consider the number of kids and adults traveling.
Think about the amount of soccer gear and packing you’ll need.
Factor in driving comfort, parking availability near tournaments, and whether the RV will serve as both transportation and accommodation.

Embracing RV Life During Your Soccer Adventure

Living and traveling in an RV adds a unique dimension to family friendly soccer travel. RV life allows families to enjoy comfort, convenience, and bonding opportunities while staying close to soccer fields and tournament locations. Here’s how to make the most of your RV experience:

Maximizing Small Space

Encourage kids to keep the small space organized and tidy.
Allocate specific areas for sleeping, gear storage, and activities to make life in the RV efficient and comfortable.

Maintaining Routine and Comfort

Keep consistent routines for meals, sleeping space, and soccer practice to ensure children feel secure while on the road.
Prepare simple, nutritious meals and snacks in the RV kitchen to fuel young players for games and practices.

Entertainment and Engagement

Bring along games, books, and quiet activities to keep kids entertained during drives or downtime.
Encourage participation in mini soccer skill challenges at rest stops or nearby parks, turning travel time into fun, active experiences.

Creating a Home Base for Soccer Events

Set up your RV near stadiums or soccer fields to provide a private, convenient base for rest and preparation.

Packing Tips for Soccer Fields and Beyond

Packing efficiently is key to a successful RV trip. Don’t forget everyday items for the road. Pack comfortable clothes, sleeping space accessories like blankets and pillows, and personal items for children and parents alike.

Include entertainment and activities for downtime. Travel between soccer fields often involves long drives, so bring books, games, or tablets to keep kids engaged. This also provides parents a chance to rest or plan the next stop.

Meal planning is another critical step. Stock the RV kitchen with easy-to-prepare snacks, healthy meals, and hydration options for the whole family. Having meals ready prevents last-minute fast-food stops or the need to eat out.

Finally, think about extras that make the trip fun. Items like folding chairs, a pop-up tent, coolers, cornhole boards, and a portable grill can upgrade your trip into a fun experience for everyone involved.

Setting Up Game-Day Camp Spots Near the Soccer Field

Preparing a well-organized camp spot for a soccer tournament ensures your travel experience is comfortable, efficient, and fun. Start by scouting the area in advance. Arrive early to secure an ideal RV parking spot near the soccer field, ideally close to restrooms and concessions for easy access. Check if the location has hookups for water and electricity, if need be.

Next, designate zones within your camp. Have a section for relaxation, a shaded area for kids to recoup between games, and a gear zone for cleats, balls, uniforms, and backpacks.

Set up a meal and hydration station. Whether using a fold-out table or a countertop in your RV, have snacks, water bottles, and energy bars ready for quick refueling. Planning meals in advance helps families avoid lines at stadium concessions and keeps more money in your pocket.

Consider the weather conditions and comfort needs. Bring pop-up tents, umbrellas, or portable canopies for sun protection on sunny days, and blankets or tarps for cooler weather. Pack folding chairs for adults and children, and designate a safe play area for younger kids so they’re entertained while the older kids warm up or play.

Road Trip Activities Between Host Cities

Traveling between tournament locations doesn’t have to be boring. An RV trip allows families to explore the country, make stops at interesting sights, and keep kids entertained between games.

Plan stops at local parks or recreation areas where kids can run, stretch, and stay active on the road -- helping break up any restlessness while driving.

Take advantage of scenic routes and local attractions. Whether it’s a museum, historical site, or a nature trail, these stops give families a chance to explore, learn, and create memories outside of the soccer field.

Keep travel fun with games, audiobooks, or storytelling sessions in the RV. Kids can meet new friends at RV parks. This downtime helps them recharge for the next game while maintaining the excitement of the tournament experience.

Safety and Comfort on Your RV Soccer Trip

Ensuring safety and comfort during an RV trip is crucial for a successful family friendly soccer travel experience. Here are key considerations and tips for families:

Driving and Parking Near Stadiums

Plan your route ahead of time and familiarize yourself with parking regulations at each soccer field.
Look for RV parks or designated parking areas close to the stadium to reduce walking distances with young players and gear.
Avoid driving during peak traffic times whenever possible to minimize stress and delays.

Keeping Kids Comfortable During Long Drives

Bring travel pillows, blankets, and favorite snacks to ensure children remain comfortable.
Use entertainment like audiobooks, games, or music to keep kids engaged during long drives.
Schedule breaks at rest stops, parks, or scenic viewpoints to allow for movement and fresh air.

Managing Schedules and Game Prep

Keep a checklist of items needed for each day: uniforms, cleats, soccer balls, water bottles, and sunscreen.
Establish a routine for meals, stretching, and gear checks to ensure young players are prepared for each game.
Use positive reinforcement to help kids follow routines and stay motivated.

RV Comfort and Amenities

Ensure sleeping space is comfortable for all family members, using bedding and pillows that suit children and adults.
Keep the RV organized, especially in small spaces, to make it easy to access soccer equipment, snacks, and other essentials.
Utilize onboard kitchens to prepare meals and maintain nutrition for youth soccer participants.

Health and Safety Considerations

Carry a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and plenty of water for hydration.
Maintain proper sleeping schedules to avoid fatigue for both parents and kids.
Stay alert while driving and enforce safety protocols within the RV, especially with young kids moving around.

Hit the Road for Family Soccer Fun

An RV trip transforms family friendly soccer travel into a stress-free, fun, and unforgettable adventure. From convenient sleeping space and on-the-go meals to the flexibility of traveling between multiple soccer fields, an RV lets families focus on what matters most—playing soccer, making memories, and enjoying the journey together.

Ready to turn your next soccer tournament into an easy family experience? Rent an RV from Cruise America and experience the ultimate combination of comfort, convenience, and fun on the road!