BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — College football is kicking off, and both Alabama and Auburn are playing their season openers away from home. If you’re planning a last-minute trip to cheer on the Tide or the Tigers, it’s not too late to find travel deals.
Travel experts say fans can save money by being flexible with travel dates, flying into nearby cities and sharing rooms or carpooling with friends and family.
“I would definitely say to reach out, the sooner the better. If you’re thinking about it today, reach out to your favorite travel agent and just drop them a text and say, ‘Hey, what’s the cheapest I can get?’” said Katelyn Lott, Owner of Legacy Getaways.
Lott also recommends considering flights into neighboring cities and adjusting travel schedules. Flying a day early or returning a day later can significantly reduce costs.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) is helping fans with new direct flights for away games.
New Direct Flights for Alabama Fans:
Delta Air Lines:
- Madison, WI – Sept. 13
- Knoxville, TN – Oct. 18
- Oklahoma City, OK – Nov. 8
United Airlines:
- Madison, WI – Sept. 13
- Knoxville, TN – Oct. 18
- Baton Rouge, LA – Nov. 8
American Airlines:
- Tallahassee, FL – Aug. 29
- Columbia, MO – Oct. 10
New Direct Flights for Auburn Fans
American Airlines:
- Waco, TX – Aug. 28
- Tallahassee, FL – Aug. 29
- Oklahoma City, OK – Sept. 19
- College Station, TX – Sept. 26
- Columbia, MO – Oct. 10
Southwest Airlines:
- Dallas Love Field, TX – Aug. 28
These flights generally depart Birmingham on Fridays before each game and return on Sundays, giving fans a full weekend to enjoy the events. Tickets are available on the airlines’ websites, and early booking is recommended due to high demand.
For those staying local, sports bars like Paramount have multiple screens to catch the games.
“We get really busy for football season,” said Jeremy Small, a bartender at Paramount. “People camp out at the door before we even open, and they stay after we close. Watch these games.”
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