You’re wearing your jersey, your boarding pass is somewhere in your backpack, and kickoff is only hours away. This is not your average flight. Traveling for a major soccer tournament in the US comes with a special kind of excitement (and a little chaos), because airports fill up fast with fans, team colors, and match-day energy.

Whether you’re flying out for one game or following the action across multiple cities, a little preparation goes a long way. This soccer travel guide will help you pack smart, get through TSA, and arrive ready to cheer the moment you land.

Skip to:

• Best Airports to Fly from for Soccer Tournaments
• What Can Soccer Fans Take Through TSA Security?
• The Ultimate Airport Checklist for Soccer Fans
• Key Fixtures and Nearest Airport
• Soccer Travel FAQs

Best Airports to Fly from for Major Soccer Tournaments (and How to Avoid Delays)

The best airport to travel from depends on where you live, but big hubs are usually the easiest choice for soccer travel. They have more nonstop flights, so you can get to your match faster. With many flights each day you have extra options if plans change.

These airports tend to handle delays better. They also have larger security and customs teams. This means lines move faster and the whole airport experience is smooth so you can get to the match.

Some of the best major US airports for tournament travel include:

• Atlanta (ATL) – Huge flight network and frequent departures
• Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) – Great central hub with lots of connections
• Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – Major gateway for cross-country travel
• Denver (DEN) – Useful for Midwest + West Coast routes
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Strong for West Coast match travel
• New York (JFK/LGA/EWR area) – Multiple airports means more flight options

If you’re staying overnight before or after the game, we also offer hotel and parking packages near the stadium. Reduce the risk of delays and save the stress on match day.

Remember to make any reservations early. Prices climb and availability drops nearer the tournament.

What Can Soccer Fans Take Through TSA Security?

Fans travel with jerseys, flags, and all kinds of spirited gear. Before you pack, it’s important to know what you can bring through TSA security and what might get stopped. Knowing the rules ahead of time will save trouble at the checkpoint and make sure your fan essentials arrive safely at the stadium.

Usually Allowed:

Most airports allow common fan items like:

• Team jerseys and scarves
• Small flags (no poles)
• Face paint and makeup (travel-size containers for liquids)
• Mini soccer balls (deflated is safest)
• Stickers and small banners

If it fits in your carry-on and doesn’t resemble a weapon, it’s probably fine.

Items like vuvuzelas, plastic horns and drums may be allowed through security, but make sure to check the rules of your airline and the stadium you’re visiting.

Items That May Cause Problems:

Some fan gear is more likely to be stopped, including:

• Banner poles or flag sticks
• Large signs with wooden supports
• Flares or smoke devices (always prohibited)
• Oversized instruments
• Anything that could be seen as a blunt object/ weapon

Even if it made it into your stadium last season, international tournament rules are usually stricter.

The Ultimate Airport Checklist for Soccer Fans

Here’s a guide to what to bring with you for the best airport experience. Covering fan gear and flight-day essentials, these items will help you arrive energized, organized, and ready for kick-off the moment you land.

Key Fixtures and Nearest Airports

If you’re planning a trip to the tournament, we’ve gathered a helpful reference for where and when the biggest matches are being played.

Soccer Travel FAQs

How early should I arrive at the airport for a big soccer match?

For major tournaments, plan to arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Busy airports, long security lines, and excited fans all add time. Early morning flights tend to be faster and less crowded than late afternoon or evening departures.

Can I bring my vuvuzela, drum, or banner through TSA?

Small items like vuvuzelas or drums may be allowed but check your airline and stadium rules first. Anything oversized, hard, or that could be used as a weapon (flag poles, large banners, flares) is usually banned. When in doubt, leave it at home or check it in advance.

What are the must-have items to bring for a tournament weekend?

Essentials include your team jersey, scarf, comfortable shoes, face paint, snacks, portable charger, and your match tickets. Keep your fan gear TSA-friendly. Small banners and stickers are normally safe.

Which U.S. airports are best for traveling to major soccer events?

Large hub airports are generally easiest: Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), etc. They offer more flights, better rebooking options, and larger security teams to handle crowds.

How can I avoid flight delays during tournament weekends?

Choose early morning flights. Give yourself extra time for connections, and arrive at the airport earlier than usual. Check your airline app for real-time updates. Gate changes and delays happen quickly when thousands of fans are traveling.

Are there any tips for flying with a group of friends or supporter clubs?

Coordinate meeting points. Share travel info digitally, and consider matching luggage tags or colors to keep your group together. Flying as a group adds fun, but it also increases coordination needs, especially through security.

Main image: Vienna Reyes – Unsplash