2026 World Cup travel costs: Rental cars and flights add up

Austria’s 2026 World Cup journey brings travel and budget challenges for fans

Austria’s national football team will compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held across 16 U.S. cities next summer. Their matches are scheduled for San Francisco, Dallas, and Kansas City. Fans planning to attend, however, face high costs despite a stronger euro easing some expenses.

The tournament kicks off in June and July 2026, with games spread from New York to Los Angeles. Austria’s fixtures follow a clear route: first in San Francisco, then Dallas, and finally Kansas City. Travelling between these cities will require careful planning, as flights, car rentals, and parking fees quickly add up.

Accommodation options in the U.S. typically include rooms with either one king-size bed or two queen/full-size beds, often sleeping up to four people. Some also offer pull-out sofas for extra guests. Yet, no single hotel chain dominates the budget market nationwide, making price comparisons essential. Loyalty points from chains like Hilton, Bonvoy, or IHG can help cut costs. Food expenses can also stretch budgets, but eating at delis or self-catering provides savings. Tipping remains customary, with 20% expected in restaurants where staff wages are low. For transport, booking rental cars through European providers ensures familiar insurance coverage, while declining extra policies avoids unnecessary charges. Combining flights and car rentals sometimes lowers airfare, and early online cancellations may secure better rental deals. Parking in cities is another cost to watch. Checking hotel policies and using apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero can help reduce fees.

Attending the World Cup in person will demand significant spending, even with a favourable exchange rate. Fans can ease costs by planning transport, accommodation, and meals carefully. The tournament’s spread across multiple cities means travel logistics will play a key role in the overall experience.