When big football tournaments happen, cities get busy. Fans from all over the world travel to watch the matches. Hotels fill up fast, and people start looking for other places to stay.
Short-term rentals have become a popular choice. They offer more space, better prices, and are often close to stadiums. Fans can stay with friends or family, cook their own meals, and enjoy the trip in their own way. For hosts, it’s a good time to earn extra money. And for local areas, it brings more visitors, more spending, and more energy during tournament season.
Here are 10 reasons why short-term rentals grow so fast during global football events.
Handle Sudden Surges in Visitor Numbers
When global football tournaments begin, cities see a huge spike in visitors. Millions of fans travel from different countries, often all at once. Hotels usually get booked months before the event.
Peter J. Product Owner of Fanpass, mentions, “Short-term rentals help fill the gap by offering extra places to stay. They pop up in more areas — not just in tourist zones — giving fans more options. This extra supply is key when regular hotels can’t keep up with the demand.”
For hosts, it’s the best time to earn, and for fans, it means they can still find a place without paying extremely high hotel prices.
Offer Location Convenience Near Stadiums
Many fans want to stay close to where matches are happening. It saves time, cuts down on travel stress, and helps them enjoy the full matchday experience. Short-term rentals around stadiums get booked quickly because fans prefer walking distance or short rides over long commutes.
Local owners often adjust their pricing to match demand, and fans are willing to pay more for the right location. For matches that run late or involve celebrations, staying nearby is a big plus. This is one reason rentals near stadiums earn far more during tournaments.
Give Flexible Stay Options
Fans come with different plans — some stay for one game, others for the whole tournament.
Eli Pasternak, Founder & CEO of Liberty House Buying Group, adds, “Hotels often have fixed check-in rules or minimum stays, but short-term rentals are more flexible. You can book for one night, a week, or even longer.”
They also let you cook, do laundry, or invite friends — just like home. This freedom is perfect for football fans who travel on a budget or want to enjoy the city their own way. It also suits people who follow their teams across different cities and need quick, easy places to stay.
Short-Term Rentals Suit Group Travel and Shared Stays
Football brings people together — friends, families, and fan clubs often travel as a group. Booking multiple hotel rooms can be expensive and inconvenient. Short-term rentals give them one big space where everyone can stay together. It’s cheaper per person and makes the trip more fun.
Groups can relax, cook meals, and plan their match days under one roof. This shared setup also creates a better travel experience, especially for fans who want to celebrate, watch replays, or hang out before and after games. That’s why group travelers often pick rentals over hotels.
Bring Higher Profit Margins for Hosts
Tournaments create the perfect opportunity for property owners to earn more in less time. “During big events, nightly rates for short-term rentals go up — sometimes double or triple the usual price. Fans are often willing to pay a premium for the right location, especially if it’s near a stadium or popular area,” says Julian Lloyd Jones, from Casual Fitters.
For hosts, this means more income even from short stays. Some owners who normally rent monthly can make a full month’s rent in just a few days. This high-demand window is a strong reason why more people list their properties during tournaments.
Attract Fans Looking for Local Experiences
Many football fans want more than just the game — they want to feel the city. Short-term rentals help them stay in local neighborhoods, shop from small stores, and eat at nearby spots. It feels more real than a hotel.
Some fans even choose rentals because the hosts give tips about where to eat, what to see, or how to get to the stadium. This kind of stay makes the trip feel more personal. And when fans enjoy their experience, they’re more likely to share it with others or come back again.
Short-Term Rentals Fill Gaps for Last-Minute Bookings
Not every fan plans months ahead. Some buy tickets late or travel on short notice. By then, most hotels are full or too expensive. Short-term rentals help fill this need. Many owners keep their listings open for flexible dates, and fans can find last-minute deals even close to matchday.
This kind of fast, no-hassle booking is perfect for travelers who make quick decisions. It also helps hosts fill empty nights and earn more. In busy cities, these rentals often become the only option left — and a reliable one for latecomers.
Short-Term Rentals Grow Through Football Tourism Packages
Platforms like Airbnb and travel agencies now create full football travel packages. These often include game tickets, stadium tours, and themed stays — all centered around short-term rentals.
Some homes are decorated with team colors, offer fan meetups, or include extras like match snacks. These add-ons attract fans who want a full football trip — not just a place to sleep. This trend has grown a lot in recent years, and it’s turning regular rentals into fan experiences. It also gives hosts more ways to stand out and earn during tournament seasons.
Gain Visibility Through Social Media and Influencers
During tournaments, fans love sharing their travel experiences online. Many post pictures of their unique stays — rooftop views, team-themed rooms, or cozy flats near stadiums. Influencers also play a big role by promoting rentals they’ve stayed in. This creates a buzz and drives more bookings.
One viral post can lead to hundreds of new views on a listing. Fans want to stay in places they’ve seen on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. This kind of organic promotion helps short-term rentals stand out, especially when everyone is searching for cool, comfortable, and shareable places to stay.
Short-Term Rentals Match the Post-Pandemic Travel Mindset
Travel habits have changed. Many fans now look for private, clean, and less crowded places. Short-term rentals offer exactly that — a space to yourself, with no busy hotel lobbies or shared dining areas. This feels safer and more relaxed, especially for families or older travelers.
People also want more control over their stay — like cooking their meals or checking in without contact. For fans traveling long distances, this kind of setup adds comfort and peace of mind. That’s why rentals are now a top choice, even beyond just matchday needs.
Final Thoughts
Global football tournaments bring huge crowds, and short-term rentals have become a big part of the experience. Fans want comfort, good locations, and flexible stays — and rentals offer all that. For hosts, it’s a great way to earn more in a short time. For cities, it helps manage the rush when hotels are full.
Rentals also let fans enjoy the local feel, travel in groups, and book last minute if needed. With social media buzz and new travel habits, this trend keeps growing.