RV Camping for Soccer Tournaments – Idaho Motorhome Rentals
If you’re a soccer parent, you already know the drill: early mornings, long drives, and weekends spent cheering from the sidelines. But let’s talk about one of the biggest challenges—where you stay during those out-of-town soccer tournaments. Hotels can get pricey, especially if your kid’s playing multiple tournaments in a season. When you add in meals, gas, and everything else, the costs pile up fast. But what if I told you there’s a way to make those weekends not only more affordable but a whole lot more fun? Enter the RV.
As an experienced soccer mom, I’ve found that RV camping has been a game-changer for us. It’s saved us hundreds of dollars and made tournament weekends a mini family vacation rather than just another commitment. Let me show you why RV camping is the ultimate hack for soccer parents and how it can transform your soccer season—while saving you serious cash. We get our RV rentals from Redline Recreational Toys, they are the best!
Why RV Camping is the Ultimate Hack for Soccer Tournaments
When my son’s soccer team started traveling to tournaments more frequently, I realized that booking hotels for each trip was starting to get expensive, not to mention stressful. Between juggling early check-ins, late check-outs, and trying to keep the whole family comfortable in one small room, it wasn’t exactly a relaxing experience. That’s when we decided to try RV camping.
After doing the math, it was clear we could save hundreds of dollars by staying at campgrounds or even boondocking near tournament venues. Plus, it gave us a lot more flexibility and comfort. Here’s why RV camping is a total game-changer for soccer parents:
- Cost Savings: Think about it—one or two nights in a hotel can easily run you $150 to $250 or more. Now, multiply that by several tournaments a year, and you’re looking at a serious expense. In contrast, most campgrounds with RV hookups cost between $30 and $50 per night. If you already own an RV, that’s a no-brainer. Even if you’re renting, the savings over the course of the season can be substantial. For us, we invested in an RV after seeing the benefits of renting it for just one season of travel soccer. And yes, it paid off quickly!
- Convenience and Flexibility: One of the best parts about RV camping is the freedom it gives you. You’re not tied to rigid check-in or check-out times like you are with hotels. If your kid’s tournament schedule changes last-minute (which, let’s be honest, happens all the time), you can adjust your plans easily. Plus, your RV is parked right there at or near the fields, so there’s no need to rush back and forth between games.
- Comfort for the Whole Family: Gone are the days of cramming everyone into a small hotel room. In an RV, you have space to spread out, relax, and enjoy the weekend. No more fighting over bathroom time or listening to siblings argue because they’re bored and cramped. I can’t tell you how many times having a little extra space has kept my kids (and me!) sane during a long weekend of games. We have our kitchen, comfy beds, and plenty of space to store all the soccer gear without cluttering up a hotel room.
How to Plan for RV Camping at Soccer Tournaments
Once you’ve decided that RV camping is the way to go, the next step is planning. It can seem overwhelming at first, but it’s actually pretty simple with a few key tips.
- Choosing the Right RV: Whether you already own an RV or are renting one for the weekend, it’s important to choose the right type for your family. If you’re renting, consider the size of your family, how long you’ll be staying, and how much space you’ll need. We started with a smaller camper trailer, but after realizing how much gear we have (soccer balls, chairs, coolers, you name it), we upgraded to something a bit roomier. For smaller families, a modest trailer or even a Class B camper van might do the trick.
- Finding RV-Friendly Locations Near the Fields: One of the best things about RV camping for soccer tournaments is how close you can stay to the action. Many campgrounds are just minutes away from tournament venues, while some tournament organizers even allow RVs to park on-site. I’ll never forget the first time we camped right at the tournament venue—it was like we had our own personal basecamp. Between games, we could pop back to the RV, eat lunch, relax, and even catch a quick nap. Finding the right spot is key. Use apps like Campendium or AllStays to find RV-friendly parks near the tournament, or call the tournament organizers to see if RVs are allowed to park near the fields.
- Packing for the Weekend: Planning for a tournament weekend in your RV is just like packing for any camping trip—only with soccer gear! Make sure you’ve got plenty of food, snacks, and easy-to-make meals for in between games. I always make sure to have a crockpot meal ready so we can have a hot dinner waiting for us after a long day at the fields. Trust me, nothing beats walking into your RV and smelling dinner already cooking when you’re worn out from hours of games.
The Benefits of RV Camping for Soccer Families
When you’re at a tournament, downtime is precious. Whether it’s a few hours between games or a night spent relaxing after a long day, having your RV nearby makes a huge difference.
- Easy Access to the Fields: One of the most frustrating parts of traveling for soccer tournaments is dealing with traffic, especially when you’re staying far from the fields. With an RV, you can often park much closer, meaning less stress and more time to focus on the games (and maybe even sleep in a bit!). Waking up just steps from the fields is a lifesaver, especially for those early morning games.
- Comfort Between Games: Instead of sitting in the car or on the sidelines for hours between matches, you can head back to your RV to recharge. I remember one rainy tournament weekend when we spent our breaks lounging in the RV, staying warm and dry while other families huddled under umbrellas and blankets. It was a small luxury that made a big difference.
- Keeping Siblings Entertained: If you’ve got other kids in tow, an RV is a godsend. We bring games, coloring books, and even a portable DVD player to keep the younger ones entertained while their sibling is on the field. Having the space for them to nap or play also makes it easier to keep everyone happy.
How RV Camping Enhances the Tournament Experience
Beyond just saving money and adding convenience, RV camping actually enhances the entire tournament experience for the whole family.
- Creating Family Memories: Soccer tournaments become more than just long weekends of shuttling kids around—they turn into mini family vacations. After the games, we often set up campfires, grill outside, and spend the evenings relaxing as a family. It’s a great way to unwind, and it’s created some of our best memories.
- Bonding with Other Soccer Families: RV camping also gives you the chance to bond with other families. We’ve met other soccer parents camping near the tournament fields, and it’s turned into a fun community vibe. We’ve shared meals, swapped stories, and made lifelong friends, all while the kids play together.
- Healthy, Budget-Friendly Meals: Another perk is being able to cook your own meals. Tournament weekends often mean fast food or expensive restaurant meals, but with an RV, you’ve got your own kitchen. We pack plenty of easy meals—think sandwiches, fruit, and pasta—and avoid the extra cost and unhealthy options that usually come with eating out.
Tips for First-Time RV Soccer Parents
If you’re new to RV camping, here are some tips to make your first trip a success:
- Renting vs. Owning an RV: If you’re unsure whether RV camping is right for your family, start by renting one. There are plenty of rental options available, and it’s a great way to test the waters without a long-term commitment. We’ve been renting from Redline Recreational Toys and haven’t had the need to buy a motorhome or camp trailer yet. It’s been great to have them take care of all maintenance, and we don’t have to store it!
- Pack Smart: Pack for both soccer and camping—extra chairs, blankets, snacks, and of course, plenty of soccer gear. A portable canopy is also a lifesaver when you need shade between games.
- Be Mindful of RV Etiquette: If you’re staying in a campground, be mindful of noise levels, especially if you have an early game and need to leave before sunrise. Keep your campsite clean, and be respectful of other campers.
Final Thoughts
RV camping for soccer tournaments isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating a better experience for your family. You get more flexibility, comfort, and quality time together, all while cutting down on hotel and meal costs. As a soccer mom who’s been doing this for years, I can honestly say RV camping has made our tournament weekends something we look forward to, rather than just another obligation. If you’re tired of overpriced hotels and want to make the most of your weekends, give RV camping a try; and Redline Recreational Toys has the best local RV rentals at great prices. Trust me, you won’t regret it!