Best tips for travelling to your international games

When you're a true follower of your national side, or the team you follow plays regular matches in Europe in the Champions League or the Europa League, then you want to get your travel arrangements sorted in plenty of time. If you're used to travelling abroad you still need to think about what to take, how to get there, and about travelling around in whichever country you will be.

On your own?

This can be an exciting experience but make sure you get yourself booked with flights, ferries or trains in plenty of time. Driving can be a good way of seeing the country, but if you're pushed for time you're better off taking public transport. Remember that parking at or near to sports stadiums can be expensive and you could easily get stuck in traffic.

With a group?

This can be a great way to travel with like-minded fans. Get in touch with your national or local side's administrators and sign up to a supporter's package, travelling by air, rail or road. You can cut your costs considerably and you could get easier access to tickets for matches as well.

Euro 2016

If you're planning to head for France for the Euro 2016 football competition then get a ticket to Paris, France as soon as you can. Paris is where the first match will be played, but nearer the time check out the other cities that are hosting matches, such as Lyon and Marseille. French trains are great – the TGV is incredibly fast and comfortable over long distances – but there are plenty of low-cost airlines that fly from the UK to various French cities.

Champions League

Spanning the whole of Europe, including Russia and the likes of Azerbaijan, here's a chance for travel with a difference. If you're going outside the EU, check your visa requirements. You're probably better off travelling in a group for these types of matches, where those running the trip can advise on what you need.

Rugby and cricket

South Africa hosts many international rugby and cricket matches. If you're planning to take some of them in during a holiday then fly to Johannesburg from where you can pick up connections to cities all over the country. South Africa is big, so flying is usually the best option for comfort and speed.

Checklist

Wherever you travel to, always make a list to ensure you're not going to have any problems that could have been foreseen – unforeseen difficulties create significant stress when travelling.

• Take your passport, keep it safe, and check that it is not too close to expiry. Some countries may not let you in if you have less than six months remaining.
• Use a moneybelt to keep wallets, credit and debit cards and cash as safe as you can.
• Don’t forget your match tickets!
• Take a mobile phone or tablet rather than a laptop to keep in touch with everything you need to know.

In the end, travelling to international games is about good preparation, thinking through your options, and in the end, having a really good time

http://www.stefanrtw.com/quick-guide-euro-2016/

http://www.bestfootballholidays.co.uk/football-travel-tips/