The Big Game Travel Guide 2023

What to expect to pay if you're heading to the big game?

Hayley Berg - Thu Jan 19 2023

The Big Game is just weeks away and while the final teams are still yet to be determined, many fans are already eyeing tickets to the big game. In fact, according to Hopper’s data, flight searches have doubled in the last week for flights to Phoenix for the The Big Game.

Hopper teamed up with ticket marketplace, Vivid Seats to compile a travel guide for The Big Game with the latest ticket prices, what to expect if you’re planning to attend and travel to the big game and their expert tips for finding a good deal.

What will it cost to attend the game?

According to Vivid Seats, the average ticket price for The Big Game is currently averaging $5,911. The cheapest “get-in” ticket for the game is currently $4,489.

What will it cost to travel to The Big Game?

Airfare Prices

Airfare for travelers from across the United States for The Big Game in Phoenix is averaging $375 per round-trip ticket. Prices have risen by $50 on average in the last three weeks alone as the league has gotten closer to determining the two final teams. Airfare is expected to continue to surge as the game approaches, with average prices expected to peak over $500 per ticket as flights sell out.

Once the final two teams are determined, airlines may add additional capacity to Phoenix to accommodate more fans, but travelers should expect those flights to sell out quickly and for last minute prices to remain ultra high!

Jaguar fans hoping their team will secure a spot in The Big Game are already seeing airfare close to $600 per ticket, while Giants Fans from New York City are seeing airfare closer to $500 per ticket.

Football fans looking to make a weekend out of the trip should expect to pay a premium, with airfare averaging $50-$100 per ticket more to arrive in Phoenix on Friday and Thursday before the event, respectively. Monday, February 13th will be the busiest day for travelers returning from the event, and prices are already averaging 80% higher than return flights the following day.

Flexible travelers will save as much as $250 off peak prices if they depart on Saturday ahead of the big game and return Tuesday following the Sunday.

Stays for The Big Game

Hotel stays in the Phoenix metropolitan area for The Big Game are averaging $575 per night for the weekend, though there are still rates available as low as $367 per night across the city depending on travelers’ flexibility.

Saturday night stays before the game will be the most expensive night in Phoenix, averaging $719 for the night, followed by stays the night of The Big Game which are averaging $698. Travelers planning to make a 3 day weekend out of the trip should stay Saturday to Tuesday for the best deal, as Monday night stays are averaging $330 compared to nearly $600 a night for Thursday or Friday night check-ins.

Hotels near the stadium are likely to sell out as the game approaches, so book ASAP to ensure you have accommodations for the weekend! If your hotel of choice is sold out currently, keep an eye on available rooms over the next few weeks as the playoffs continue. Some fans may have reserved rooms with no cancellation fee in the hopes their team will make the game. If they’re eliminated, fans may cancel their “just in case” bookings allowing you to scoop up a great last minute location.

Headed to the game with a group and looking for a home rental? Rental homes in Phoenix are averaging $462 per night for a 2 bedroom accommodation over weekend of The Big Game. Check out available homes on the Hopper app, with many offering access to pools, tennis courts and other outdoor activities so you can take advantage of the great weather!

Wheels for The Big Game

Car rentals in Phoenix for The Big Game weekend are averaging $85 per day, with most travelers looking to rent for 4 days to get around for the entire weekend.

What to know before you book:

Top Travel Booking Tips:

Travel Saturday to Tuesday to save $500+ on your trip: Booking airfare to arrive on 2/11 and depart on 2/14 will save travelers $165 per ticket on average and will save travelers over $300 in hotel costs.
Book now! Prices have risen by $50 on average (+13%) in the last three weeks alone as we get closer to the final playoff games. Prices are expected to continue surging and will likely peak over $500 as flights sell out. Hotels and rental homes are also likely to sell out as the game approaches so book now to lock in your accommodations!
Lock in a good deal you see now - If you’re considering going to the game but aren’t ready to book just yet, use Hopper’s Price Freeze and hold a good price you see. If flight prices rise in the coming days, you’ll pay the frozen price.

Top Ticketing Tips:

Anti-social sharing: Never share photos of tickets online, they can be copied instantly and used by others. Wait until you get to the stadium to post.  
Secure & safe: Only buy from trusted websites that stand behind their tickets with buyer guarantees. Be wary of tickets for sale on social media. Don’t buy with cash on the street and only shop on secure platforms.   
Check credentials: Check for Third Party Confirmation and make sure the site is a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB).
Mobile matters: If you’re buying from a site with an app, download the app to get notifications and updates on your event. Make sure your phone is fully charged when you arrive at the venue, since your ticket will likely be mobile. Remember extreme weather temperatures can drain your phone faster.  
Know before you go: Every venue has specific regulations regarding what you are and aren’t allowed to bring in with you to an event. Make sure you check their site beforehand to see if personal items like a purse or bag is the approved size and/or material, to be allowed in.

Where to Stay?

Find these homes and more still available on the Hopper app for the weekend of The Big Game! Availability and price subject to change. To see more, follow the links below on your Hopper app to book!

NEW! Scottsdale Apt w/ Patio ~ 1 Mi to Old Town - $1,174 per night