RV vs Hotel: Cost Breakdown for World Soccer Tournament Host Cities

By Jamie Cattanach
Travel Inspiration

For many sports fans, seeing the biggest world soccer tournament is a lifelong gooooooooal! (Sorry, we had to.) But what’s the best and most affordable way to stay close to the stadium? Host cities see extreme hotel price spikes during major global sporting events, which means that families and traveling friend groups alike end up shocked by high nightly rates. Below, we offer a transparent cost comparison across many of the major U.S. host cities for the world’s largest soccer tournament coming up in 2026, with up-close-and-personal details as well as a side-by-side breakdown. 

Spoiler alert: RVing can be a flexible, affordable, group-friendly solution, and we’re not just saying that because it’s our business. 

Why Accommodation Costs Surge During Major Tournaments

The short answer: because they can. With thousands of fans streaming into major host cities, hotels can take the opportunity to ramp up their nightly prices and make bank. Still, here’s a closer look at how the dynamic works.

Hotel Price Inflation During Global Sporting Events

It’s plain old supply and demand: there are a limited number of hotel rooms available for a large number of soccer fans demanding them. That means each room is worth more, since people are likely to be willing to pay more to be one of the lucky few who got in.

Along with higher nightly rates, hotels may also impose minimum stay requirements, locking you into a larger overall total. Add resort fees, parking fees, and taxes, and you can be looking at sky-high totals. Case in point: according to an analysis by The Athletic, the average hotel room price increased by 300% for dates around the opening matches in 16 host cities across the three host countries. In one Mexico City hotel, the per-night rate was increased an incredible 2,373%. 

Additional Hidden Costs of Hotels

On top of the hotel rooms themselves, there are also other hidden costs associated with traveling to see the world’s largest soccer tournament. These include:

  • Parking fees (which can really add up, especially in major cities)
  • Transportation to the stadium, be it taxi, public transit or fuel for your own vehicle
  • The possibility of purchasing multiple hotel rooms for larger groups of friends or for families who want some privacy
  • Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of dining — which can be quite high when you’re relying on restaurants without kitchen access

Average Hotel Costs in World Soccer Tournament Host Cities

Enough of the generalities, though. What are the real costs you can expect in each city? While hotel costs are dynamic and can change from day to day, we’ve gathered some real-world estimates for you below. 

Estimated Hotel Rates by Host City

Here are the costs you might expect to see rack up in six of the biggest U.S. soccer tournament host cities, using data gathered from Expedia and reporting from major news outlets.

New York City/New Jersey

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $540
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $600–$1,060
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,760–$3,220

Los Angeles

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $450
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $570–$1,006
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,370–$2,806

Miami

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $435
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $560–$990
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,300–$2,730

Dallas

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $380
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $530–$958
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,050–$2,478

Atlanta

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $370
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $520–$952
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,000–$2,432

Seattle

  • Average nightly rate during tournament window: $565
  • Typical minimum stay: 3–4 nights
  • Parking and taxes estimate: $640–$1,060
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,900–$3,320

RV Rental Costs in Host Cities

As you can see, a hotel stay in a major host city can easily set you back thousands of dollars — especially if you’re opting for multiple rooms and once you include peripheral costs like dining. As a comparison, let’s now tackle the same cost structure, but for RV travel.

Average RV Rental Prices by City

Below, we’ve broken down the estimated prices for a four-night stay at each of these six major U.S. host cities in an RV, assuming you’d be staying at a mid-range private campground. 

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that one of the best parts of RVing is that the costs are much more customizable, since the type of RV you rent as well as the distance you choose to travel can have a major impact on your total overall costs

New York City/New Jersey

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($300 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $500
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $100
  • Additional parking fees: $600
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,400

Los Angeles

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($250 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $425
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $132
  • Additional parking fees: $400
  • Estimated total for four nights: $1,957

Miami

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($225 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $375
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $86
  • Additional parking fees: $350
  • Estimated total for four nights: $1,711

Dallas

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($200 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $240
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $78
  • Additional parking fees: $300
  • Estimated total for four nights: $1,518

Atlanta

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($225 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $325
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $93
  • Additional parking fees: $375
  • Estimated total for four nights: $1,693

Seattle

  • Average nightly RV rental fee: $75–$450 ($275 for a Class C)
  • Estimated campground fees: $450
  • Estimated fuel costs (using local fuel prices and assuming 300 miles of travel): $126
  • Additional parking fees: $450
  • Estimated total for four nights: $2,126

Keep in mind, too, that many RVs can comfortably hold larger numbers of travelers, which makes these totals even more affordable when spread out across your party.

Side-by-Side Cost Comparison

Now we’ve seen for ourselves how RVing can make for a more affordable trip to go see the world’s largest soccer tournament. But let’s make the results even clearer by laying them out side by side.

Four-Night Cost Comparison for a Group of Four

To really lay out the stark contrast between these two options, here’s a side-by-side cost comparison between several of the major U.S. cities hosting the soccer tournament this summer. (We’ve chosen three of the six for brevity, choosing one ultra-high-cost city as well as one lower-cost city, and one in the middle.)

Four-Night Cost Comparison: New York/New Jersey

Cost CategoryHotel StayRV Rental
Nightly Rate$540$300/night for RV; $125/night for campground
Number of Nights44
Base Lodging Total$2,160$1,700
Taxes and Fees$300–$360N/A
Additional Parking$300–$700$600
Food Savings from KitchenN/A-$500
Trip Total Cost$3,160–$3,220$2,400
Cost Per Person$790–$805$600

Four-Night Cost Comparison: Miami

Cost CategoryHotel StayRV Rental
Nightly Rate$435$225/night for RV; $93.75/night for campground
Number of Nights44
Base Lodging Total$1,740$1,275
Taxes and Fees$260–$290N/A
Parking$300–$700$350
Food Savings from KitchenN/A-$400
Trip Total Cost$2,300–$2,730$1,711
Cost Per Person$575–$682.50$427.75

Four-Night Cost Comparison: Dallas

Cost CategoryHotel StayRV Rental
Nightly Rate$380$200/night for RV rental; $60/night for campground
Number of Nights44
Base Lodging Total$1,520$1,040
Taxes and Fees$230–$258N/A
Parking$300–$700$300
Food Savings from KitchenN/A-$350
Trip Total Cost$2,050–$2,478$1,518
Cost Per Person$512.50–$619.50$379.50

Break-Even Analysis

It’s pretty hard to deny, given these figures, that RV travel can present a serious savings opportunity for those hoping to see the world’s biggest soccer game live. But it’s also true that the exact figures can vary significantly depending on the way you travel. 

When Does an RV Become Cheaper Than a Hotel?

What are some of the prime circumstances in which an RV is highly likely to be cheaper than a hotel?

  • When you’re traveling with a larger group size. RVs can often more comfortably sleep larger groups, including both traveling friends and families with kids.
  • When your trip is longer. Hotels generally don’t extend discounts for longer stays, but RV rentals often do — and campgrounds are almost always cheaper on a per-night basis than hotels are.
  • When you’re traveling during peak season or for a major event (like the one we’re talking about here). If it’s shoulder season, sure, you might score a good hotel room for a price comparable to a rental RV… but when there’s surge demand? You’ll probably be out of luck.
  • When you’re not driving that far. One of the biggest costs of RV travel is the cost of fuel itself. But for an event like a soccer tournament, you can even rent an RV and have it delivered and set up ahead of time, taking fuel out of the equation entirely!

Non-Financial Benefits of RV Travel

It’s also true that RVing has benefits that go far beyond cost savings. Below, we dive into the details. 

Flexibility Between Host Cities

Want to attend multiple matches while avoiding airport costs and TSA lines? A rental RV makes it possible — especially if you go for a one-way RV rental.

Built-In Community

Campgrounds basically function as fan hubs during major sporting events, and even outside of game day, you’ll run into some cool travelers who love taking to the road as much as you do.

Comfort and Privacy

Sure, room service is cool, but with an RV, you get to return to your own, private space without any shared hotel hallways or annoying through-the-wall neighbors. You can stock your own favorite foods and prepare them at your leisure. It’s like being at home… while you’re not at home.

Best Campgrounds Near Tournament Host Cities

Ready to plan your own RV rental soccer tournament extravaganza? Here are our suggestions for where to stay.

New York/New Jersey

It might be surprising, but there are, indeed, some incredible campgrounds around New York City. For the tournament, we suggest:

Liberty Harbor RV Park: Jersey City, NJ

  • Distance to MetLife Stadium: 10 miles (~25–40 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $185 per night during higher demand seasons and holidays

Skyline RV Camp: Brooklyn, NY

  • Distance to MetLife Stadium: 12–21 miles (~40–60 min)
  • Hookups: Electric; no water; no generator use allowed
  • Estimated Rate: Starting at $85 for non-waterfront and $130 for waterfront campsites

Los Angeles

The City of Angels is home to some great resort-style RV campgrounds, not to mention all the national and state forests and state parks that surround the city. Our suggestions:

Dockweiler RV Park: Playa Del Rey, CA

  • Distance to SoFi Stadium: 8 miles (15–30 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $65–$85 per day

Hollywood RV Park: Van Nuys, CA

  • Distance to SoFi Stadium: 25 miles (50–75 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $80 per day; $518-ish weekly rate available

Miami

Magic City is home to many RV parks, as well as being within easy distance of Biscayne National Park (or Everglades National Park if you’re looking to extend your trip). Start your booking search with:

Hollywood KOA: Hollywood, FL

  • Distance to Hard Rock Stadium: 6 miles (7–15 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $40–$90 per night

Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park: Miami, FL

  • Distance to Hard Rock Stadium: 35 miles (40–70 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $80 per night

Dallas

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and Dallas is the kind of big city that also has lots of camping options. Some of our favorites include:

Dallas/Arlington KOA Holiday: Arlington, TX 

  • Distance to AT&T Stadium: 5 miles (10–20 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $40–$80 per night

The Vineyards Campground & Cabins: Grapevine, TX 

  • Distance to AT&T Stadium: 20 miles (35–50 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $64–$84 per night

Atlanta

Traveling to Hotlanta for the tournament (or just because)? Of all the RV camping in Atlanta, here are the best for the soccer match:

Stone Mountain Park Campground: Stone Mountain, GA

  • Distance to Mercedes-Benz Stadium: 21–28 miles (35–50 min)
  • Hookups: Full and partial hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $40–$70 per night

Atlanta South RV Resort: McDonough, GA

  • Distance to Mercedes-Benz Stadium: 27 miles (30–45 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $65–$85 per night

Seattle

Last but certainly not least, Seattle and its surroundings are home to some stunning RV parks — not to mention must-do additions to your trip like the Mount Rainier, North Cascades and Olympic National Parks. (The local state parks are pretty epic, too, if you can’t get a reservation at one of the national parks!)

For the tournament, start here:

Lake Pleasant RV Park: Bothell, WA

  • Distance to Lumen FIeld: 25 miles (35–55 min)
  • Hookups: Full hookups
  • Estimated Rate: $72 per night

Saltwater State Park: Des Moines, WA

  • Distance to Lumen FIeld: 19 miles (30–50 min)
  • Hookups: Electric, no water or sewer (dump station available)
  • Estimated Rate: $31–$51 per night

How to Book an RV for the World Soccer Tournament

Ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime? The time to book is right now, friends — summer’s around the corner.

Keep in mind that you’ll want to choose the correct type of RV for your group, with larger groups and families likely wanting a bigger Class A motorcoach or fifth-wheel travel trailer for space and comfort. (Smaller parties or solo travelers can get away with campervans and Class B coaches.)

When you rent through RVshare, you’re fully insured and ready to go — but if you’re renting from a different dealer, be sure to double-check with your auto insurance provider to make sure you have coverage.

Finally, don’t forget to have fun! We’ll be here every step of the way to hear all about your adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to rent an RV or stay in a hotel during the World Soccer Tournament?

In short: Yes. Staying in an RV can save you hundreds on the base price of lodging, and that’s before you factor in additional savings like food costs. In our analysis, we found that a four-night RV stay in New York City cost only $2,400, versus costs upwards of $3,000 for a hotel stay (not even including food).

How much do hotel prices increase during major sporting events?

One recent estimate shows that hotels are surging an average of 300% in the cities hosting the world’s largest soccer tournament in 2026. Some surged far more — upwards of 2,000%. (That’s not a typo.)

Where can I park an RV near tournament stadiums?

Generally, tournament stadiums hosting the world’s largest soccer tournament are not allowing RV parking on match days. The best bet may be to leave your RV at your campground and commute in using your tow vehicle or public transportation.

How many people can sleep in an RV rental?

It depends on the type of RV! However, big Class A motorcoaches can often sleep as many as 8 or 10 people, and fifth wheels may be able to sleep up to 12 or 14. Smaller RVs, like Class Cs, can easily accommodate up to 6 or 8, while travel trailers range from 4 to 10 depending on their size.

Do campgrounds sell out during major events?

Yes. Just like hotels, if you want to get a spot, you’ll want to book early.

Can I drive an RV between multiple host cities?

Yes! Renting an RV makes it easy to travel between multiple cities hosting the world’s largest soccer tournament, for instance. A one-way RV rental makes it even easier.

What hidden fees should I expect with hotels?

When you stay in hotels, some of the unexpected fees can include additional nightly parking costs, resort fees, taxes, and incidentals — and that’s all on top of surge pricing.

Is an RV comfortable for a week long tournament trip?

Yes! RVs are private and well-appointed, often including full kitchens, bathrooms (sometimes including bathtubs), temperature control (both AC and heating), and entertainment. If you’re traveling with family, you can also have the master bedroom all to yourself.