Trip to the Champions League match – suitcase packing guide

A trip to a Champions League match is not only an opportunity to experience football emotions at the highest level but also an excellent chance for a short and exciting journey. Whether you support your favorite team or simply want to feel the incredible atmosphere of the stadium, such a trip is a unique experience.

To fully enjoy the adventure, it's worth preparing properly. Packing for a short, intense trip can be a challenge, especially when it comes to remembering all the tickets, documents, clothes, and fan gadgets. The aim of this guide is to show you how to best prepare for a trip to a Champions League match, what to pack so you don't forget anything, and how to avoid problems at the airport.

Travel Planning

To ensure a smooth trip to the Champions League match, it is worth starting with solid planning. Whether you are traveling by plane, train, or car, a well-organized trip is the key to a successful outing.

Choosing Transportation

• Plane: The fastest option for long distances, but requires advance booking and knowledge of baggage limits. Remember to check the baggage rules of the airlines you are using.
• Train: A great option for traveling to nearby cities, allows you to avoid long airport check-ins and the stress of delays.
• Car: Flexible travel, but remember to arrange parking near the stadium and be aware of the traffic laws in the country you are visiting.

Accommodations and Key Information

• Hotel Reservations: Check if the hotel is conveniently located – preferably close to the stadium or in the city center. Remember to confirm your reservation.
• Key Information: Prepare all important documents, such as match tickets, reservation confirmations, ID card or passport. It’s also a good idea to have copies of these documents in electronic form.

Important Things to Bring

• Match Tickets: Always have them handy – whether in paper or electronic form.
• Hotel and Transportation Reservations: Print them out or save them on your phone, so you have them at all times.
• Documents: Passport, ID card, driver's license (if you plan to rent a car).
• Travel Apps and Maps: Apps like Google Maps, public transportation apps, or dedicated stadium apps can significantly ease navigation in a foreign city.

Tips on How to Buy an Airline Ticket for a Champions League Match

Champions League matches usually take place on Wednesdays or Tuesdays, which allows for a short trip to be planned. To find the best airline tickets, it is advisable to start searching at least a few weeks in advance. It is best to monitor prices on flight comparison platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights, which offer the option to set up price alerts. A good strategy is to consider returning to a different city in your country – sometimes return flights to a smaller airport can be cheaper.

For greater flexibility, it's worth looking for flights to alternative airports near the city where the match is taking place. Also, remember the option of "open jaw" flights, meaning arriving in one city and returning from another. This often helps reduce costs or adjust your trip to the most readily available flight options.

How to Buy Tickets for the Champions League?

Purchasing tickets for Champions League matches requires planning and familiarity with a few important steps. Here is a guide on how to do it:

1. Check Official Sales Channels

The safest way to buy tickets is through official club channels or the UEFA website. Clubs often sell tickets in presale to club members and then make them available to the public. UEFA sometimes organizes its own lotteries for tickets to key matches, such as the final.

2. Registration and Presale

If you want to increase your chances of purchasing a ticket, it is beneficial to register on the club or UEFA website in advance. Club members often have priority in purchasing, and some clubs offer special loyalty programs that enhance the chances of obtaining tickets.

3. Pay Attention to Sale Dates

Ticket sales for Champions League matches usually start a few weeks before the match. Dates may vary depending on the club, so it is advisable to regularly check official websites to avoid missing out on opportunities.

4. Purchase Through Intermediaries

If you are unable to secure a ticket through official channels, you can use trusted intermediaries such as Ticketmaster, Viagogo, or StubHub. However, be cautious of prices that may be significantly higher, and the possibility of buying fake tickets – choose reputable providers.

5. Travel for Away Matches

If you are planning to attend an away match, some clubs offer special packages that include a ticket for the match and transportation options. It is worth considering such an offer, especially if you plan to travel in a group.

6. Finals and High-Stakes Matches

Tickets for Champions League finals are much harder to obtain. UEFA usually organizes a lottery where you can apply for tickets. It is advisable to be flexible and prepare for higher costs or alternative options, such as VIP packages or trips organized by travel agencies.

When planning a trip to a match, it is best to act quickly and use official sources to avoid dishonest sellers and inflated prices.

Which Suitcase to Choose for a Short Trip (2-5 Days)

During a short trip to a Champions League match, the right luggage is key to a comfortable and hassle-free journey. It’s important that the suitcase meets airline regulations while also being functional and easy to use.

Selecting the Right Suitcase

• Size Recommendations: The optimal choice for a short trip is a carry-on bag that does not exceed dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. This size complies with most cabin baggage regulations, allowing you to avoid extra fees for checked baggage.

• Recommended Model – Peli 1535 TRAVEL Case: This lightweight yet extremely durable suitcase is ideal for a short trip. The Peli 1535 TRAVEL Case features a solid construction, is waterproof, dustproof, and offers a high level of protection for your belongings. Its lightness helps save on baggage weight, providing more space for clothes and accessories.

• Functional Compartments: For a short trip, proper organization of space is crucial. A suitcase with dedicated compartments for electronics, documents, cosmetics, and clothing facilitates quick access to necessary items and helps maintain order. Models like the Peli 1535 TRAVEL offer special compartments that assist in optimal use of space.

Suitcase vs. Backpack

• Cabin Suitcase: Ideal if you care about protecting your luggage – especially when transporting electronics, delicate accessories, or documents. A suitcase provides better organization and the ability to sort items in individual compartments. With wheels and a telescoping handle, it’s easy to move around the airport or city.

• Backpack: A good choice if you prioritize mobility and comfort. A backpack offers more freedom, particularly in areas with uneven terrain, such as stairs or narrow streets. It is also more flexible when it comes to packing irregular items.

The choice between a suitcase and a backpack depends on the nature of the trip and your preferences. For a short trip, a cabin suitcase may be a more functional solution, especially if you anticipate flying and care about organizing your baggage space.

Packing List

To ensure a smooth trip to the Champions League match, it's worth carefully considering what to pack. For short trips, the key is optimizing your luggage and taking only the essentials.

Documents and essential items:

• Match tickets: Make sure you have your match tickets in either paper or digital form.
• Identity card/passport: Necessary for travel, especially for international flights.
• Fan card: If required, don't forget to take your fan card.
• Boarding pass: Printed out or available in the airline's app.
• Travel insurance: Document confirming insurance for the duration of your trip.

Clothes for the match and stay:

• Match outfit: The team jersey you support, comfortable pants, and a lightweight rain jacket if the weather might be unpredictable.
• Comfortable travel clothes: Clothing that will work well in various weather conditions and will be comfortable while moving.
• Spare clothing for 2-5 days: Opt for minimalism – pack clothes that can be easily mixed and matched, e.g., jeans, t-shirts, a light sweater, underwear, and socks for each day.

Cosmetics and electronics:

• Cosmetic set: Pack only the essential cosmetics, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, a small shampoo, and shower gel (in accordance with carry-on baggage rules – containers up to 100 ml).
• Electronics: Mobile phone, power bank, chargers, and optionally a camera to capture important moments during the match and trip.

With this prepared list and a well-chosen suitcase (like the Peli 1535 TRAVEL Case), your short trip to the Champions League match will go smoothly, and you'll avoid baggage issues.

Packing Tips – How to Pack Efficiently for a Short Trip

Space-Saving Techniques:

• Rolling Clothes: Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space in your suitcase and minimizes the risk of wrinkles. It’s an ideal solution for t-shirts, lightweight sweaters, and jeans.
• Using Travel Organizers: Organizers help keep your luggage neat. Separate compartments for electronics, cosmetics, and clothes make it easier to find what you need without rummaging through the entire suitcase.
• Pack Underwear in Shoes: The inside of shoes is a perfect spot for small items like socks or underwear, maximizing the space in your luggage.

How to Avoid Overweight Luggage:

• Limiting to Essentials: Ask yourself what is absolutely necessary. For a short trip, it’s enough to bring basic clothing, cosmetics in mini containers, and essential accessories.
• Thoughtful Packing According to Weight Limits: Carefully check the weight limits for carry-on luggage with the chosen airlines to avoid additional fees for overweight luggage. By choosing a lightweight suitcase, like the Peli 1535 TRAVEL Case, you have more space for personal items without exceeding the weight limit.

With these techniques, you can pack efficiently for a short trip to a Champions League match, staying comfortable and avoiding issues related to overweight luggage.

Useful Additions

Fan Accessories:

• Team Scarf: A must-have item for every fan that adds atmosphere during the match and allows identification with other supporters.
• Flags and Gadgets: Small flags, keychains, and other fan accessories that are easy to carry and express support for the team.

Earplugs and Eye Mask:

• Comfort During Overnight Stay: If you plan to stay in a cheap hotel or hostel, it's worth bringing earplugs and an eye mask. They will help minimize noise and light, ensuring better sleep, especially in busier places.

Snacks for the Road:

• What to Bring: Snacks like energy bars, nuts, or fruits are a great solution for a long journey. You can also take a small bottle of water or a drink to avoid high prices at the stadium. It's a practical and economical solution.

Baggage Safety

Transporting Liquids in Carry-On Baggage:

• Rules at the Airport: Remember that all liquids, gels, pastes, and aerosols must be transported in containers with a maximum capacity of 100 ml, placed in a transparent, resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. These liquids need to be taken out of your baggage during security checks at the airport, so it’s advisable to place them in an easily accessible location.

Built-in TSA Locks on Suitcases:

• Usefulness for International Travel: TSA locks are crucial for international travel, especially to the USA, where customs authorities may open your baggage without damaging it. This keeps your baggage safe, and you avoid issues during inspections. It’s worth investing in suitcases with built-in TSA locks to ensure peace of mind while traveling.

Do you already know how to pack your suitcase for a Champions League trip?

A trip to a Champions League match is not only unforgettable emotions related to sports but also a great opportunity for a short getaway abroad. Proper preparation and thoughtful packing will ensure that the whole journey goes smoothly, allowing you to enjoy every moment. Choosing the right suitcase that meets airline requirements and offers functionality, such as Peli 1535 TRAVEL, will provide comfort and peace, not only at the stadium but also on the way to and from it.