What does a youth football tournament abroad cost, and how do you compare quotes?

Two tournament offers with very different headline prices can cost the same in the end, or the cheaper one can turn out to be the more expensive trip. Here is how to read a quote.

• Entry fee, charged per team or per player.
• Accommodation, usually per person per night, often sold as part of the tournament's package.
• Meals, which may or may not be included, especially on match days.
• Local transfers between the airport, the hotel and the pitches.
• Travel to the destination, by air or by coach.
• Insurance that covers playing matches abroad.
• Kit and extras: travel kit, laundry, excursions.

Entry fees are quoted per team at some events and per player at others, and accommodation is almost always per person. Convert every quote into a cost per traveller, staff included, before you compare.

• Is the hotel within walking distance of the pitches, or are transfers included?
• Are meals included, and at times that fit the match schedule?
• How many matches does each team play at minimum?
• How much is the deposit, and what is the cancellation policy?
• Are there extra charges per staff member or per additional team?

Most academies combine family contributions paid in instalments, sponsors, fundraising events and a contribution from the club. Start early: a payment plan over several months is easier for families than a single payment.

The best measure is not the price but the football: how many competitive matches each player gets against opponents of the right level. A cheaper event full of lopsided games can be poor value; a well-matched one is worth the journey.

Entry fees are set by each tournament. Our service fee is agreed with you in writing before anything is booked.