I’m Alex, a 32-year-old dad of two energetic kids, living in Denver. My weekends are usually a blur of soccer practice, backyard BBQs, and, of course, college football Saturdays. I love the energy, the traditions, and the chance to connect with family and friends over a game. It’s more than just football; it’s about the whole experience, from the tailgating to the post-game debriefs. I’m always looking for ways to make those game-day trips even better, whether it’s finding the perfect place to stay or planning the most efficient travel route. Game Day Getaways: Your Ultimate Guide to 2025 College Football Travel The crisp autumn air, the roar of the crowd, the vibrant colors of team spirit – there’s nothing quite like the experience of college football season! As a dad who lives for those Saturdays, I know firsthand that it’s more than just the game itself. It’s about the journey, the shared memories, and the unique atmosphere that transforms towns across America. Vrbo’s inaugural Gridiron Guest Report gives us an inside look at how fans like me are planning their trips for the 2025 season, and it’s packed with insights to help you make the most of your game-day adventures. This report, based on booking data and fan surveys, confirms what many of us already know: college football is a massive travel driver. For over half of the fans surveyed, the primary motivation for hitting the road is spending quality time with friends and family. That’s exactly how I feel! These trips become multi-generational reunions, turning a simple game into a cherished family event. And when it comes to creating those memories, vacation rentals are the undisputed champions, offering the communal spaces and home-like comfort that hotels just can’t match. Being able to cook together, relax in a common area, and just *be* together off the field makes all the difference. The Heartbeat of the Game: Why Fans Travel It’s no surprise that football, especially college football, is the sport that gets American fans on their feet and on the move. An Expedia Group study backs this up, showing that football reigns supreme when it comes to sports-related travel. It’s a cultural phenomenon that extends far beyond the 60 minutes of play. The passion for your team fuels a whole travel ecosystem, with fans planning months in advance to snag the best seats and the perfect place to stay. More Than Just a Game: Family and Friends First For many of us, the game is the centerpiece, but the real magic happens in the shared experience. Whether it’s a long-standing family tradition or a reunion with college buddies, these trips are about connection. Vacation rentals really shine here. Imagine a big house where everyone can gather, share stories, and relive the game’s best moments. That’s the kind of atmosphere that creates lasting memories, something my own family cherishes during our annual trips. Football: America’s Premier Travel Event The numbers don’t lie: college football is a huge economic driver for the towns that host games. It’s a testament to the sport’s deep roots in American culture. Fans aren’t just attending a game; they’re immersing themselves in a weekend-long festival. This dedication means planning ahead is key, especially for those must-see matchups. Peak Season: When and Where the Action Is Vrbo’s report highlights some key dates and destinations that are set to be hotspots for college football fans in 2025. The Busiest Saturdays on the Calendar Mark your calendars! Week six, specifically Saturday, October 5th, and week eight, Saturday, October 19th, are projected to be the busiest travel weekends for vacation rentals near college campuses. These dates are packed with compelling matchups, including potential playoff previews and heated conference rivalries that fans won’t want to miss. Underrated Gems: New Destinations on the Rise While the traditional powerhouses always draw crowds, the Gridiron Guest Report points to some emerging destinations gaining serious traction. Columbia, South Carolina; Boise, Idaho; and Boulder, Colorado, are being recognized as underrated college football towns that are seeing a significant uptick in travel interest on Vrbo. These spots offer a unique blend of passionate fan bases and local charm, appealing to those looking for experiences beyond the usual suspects. Going Global: College Football’s International Stage The reach of college football is truly global. This year, Dublin, Ireland, will host a matchup between Kansas State and Iowa State on August [DATE OF GAME – *information not provided in source*]. This international game has already boosted vacation rental demand in Dublin by 25% year-over-year on Vrbo, proving that the allure of experiencing American college football in a foreign setting is a major draw. Your Game Plan: Navigating the 2025 Season with Vrbo Vrbo offers some smart strategies to help fans make the most of their game-day travel. Booking for the Big Games: Bowl Season and Beyond Planning for bowl games and playoff matchups is crucial. Vrbo advises booking accommodations, game tickets, and flights as early as possible. This is especially true for key postseason destinations like Phoenix, which is hosting a College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, and Miami, the site of the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship. Smart Stays: Finding Value Amidst High Ticket Prices While ticket prices for marquee games can climb as high as $450, finding affordable lodging is still possible. The report indicates that in many college towns hosting major games, average daily rates for vacation rentals remain under $250 per night. In some cases, these rentals can be half the cost of a single game ticket, making them a financially savvy choice for attending major events. The Vrbo App: Your Go-To for Seamless Planning Vrbo encourages fans to leverage its mobile app for a streamlined planning and booking experience. It’s a user-friendly way to discover and reserve the perfect vacation rental, offering convenience and access to a wide range of properties. Matchup Mania: How Key Games Drive Demand The 2025 season’s schedule is already making waves in the travel industry. Early Buzz: Fan Movement Driven by Big Games Notable matchups scheduled for the 2025 season have already sparked a surge in demand for vacation rentals near college campuses. Vrbo analyzed booking data from August 23rd through November 30th, 2025, comparing it to the previous year, to identify these trends. Year-Over-Year Trends: Demand Surges The data shows that demand has more than doubled for four of the top five destinations experiencing this surge. For example, the highly anticipated game between Texas and Ohio State on August 30th in Columbus, Ohio, saw a remarkable 375% year-over-year increase in rental demand. This clearly illustrates the direct impact of high-profile games on travel booking behavior. Game Day on a Budget: Financial Strategies for Fans Attending college football games can be a significant investment, but smart planning can make it more accessible. The Value Proposition of Vacation Rentals Vacation rentals offer a compelling value for college football fans. They provide more space, better amenities, and a communal atmosphere compared to traditional hotels. This makes them a cost-effective solution, especially for families and groups, as costs can be split among travelers. Balancing Your Budget: Tickets vs. Lodging It’s all about striking a balance. With game tickets being a major expense, securing reasonably priced accommodation is key to managing your overall trip budget. The availability of rentals under $250 per night in many college towns provides a tangible way to control travel costs. Enhancing the Fan Experience: Vrbo’s Role Vrbo’s platform is perfectly suited for the unique needs of college football travelers. Group Travel and Family Reunions Made Easy College football weekends are often about bringing people together. Vrbo’s ability to book entire homes allows families and friends to stay under one roof, enhancing the social aspect of the trip and ensuring everyone shares in the game-day excitement. A Variety of Stays for Every Crew Whether you’re a small group of friends or a large extended family, Vrbo offers a diverse range of accommodation options. From cozy apartments to spacious houses, you can find a rental that perfectly fits your group’s size and preferences. Looking Ahead: Planning for the Postseason and Beyond The excitement doesn’t end with the regular season. Postseason Pursuits: Bowl Games and Playoffs The report emphasizes the importance of planning ahead for bowl games and championship tournaments. Vrbo’s data shows a growing demand for rentals in cities hosting these prestigious events, indicating a trend of fans planning their travel well in advance to secure their spots at the most anticipated games of the year. Phoenix, hosting the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, and Miami, home to the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship, are already seeing increased demand. The Enduring Magic of College Football Travel Ultimately, Vrbo’s Gridiron Guest Report reinforces that college football travel is more than just attending a game. It’s about the shared experiences, the traditions, and the powerful sense of community. As the 2025 season unfolds, this report serves as a valuable guide for fans like me, highlighting the benefits of planning early and choosing the right accommodation to create unforgettable game-day adventures. **Key Takeaways for Your 2025 College Football Travel:** * Plan Early: For major games, bowl games, and playoff matchups, book your accommodations and tickets well in advance. Weeks six (Oct. 5) and eight (Oct. 19) are predicted to be the busiest travel weekends. * Embrace Vacation Rentals: They offer space, comfort, and a communal atmosphere ideal for families and groups, often at a better value than hotels. * Explore Emerging Destinations: Consider underrated college football towns like Columbia, South Carolina; Boise, Idaho; and Boulder, Colorado, for a unique fan experience. * Budget Wisely: With ticket prices high, look for vacation rentals under $250 per night to manage your overall travel expenses. * Utilize the Vrbo App: Streamline your planning and booking process for a seamless experience. Are you ready to plan your 2025 college football road trip? What are your must-have game-day traditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!