As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, football fans across the UK are proving that not even a summer holiday can distract them from the beautiful game. New research from easyJet holidays reveals a growing travel trend dubbed the “fan-cation”, where holidaymakers are actively planning their getaways around live football coverage.
With tournament matches taking place across North America and kick-off times stretching into the early hours of the morning for UK viewers, many travellers are prioritising access to live games over traditional holiday activities.
Nearly Half of Fans Would Skip Holiday Plans for a Crucial Match
According to the research, almost half (48%) of British football fans would willingly miss pre-booked excursions, day trips, romantic dinners, or social gatherings if they clashed with an important World Cup fixture.
The findings highlight just how passionate supporters remain while abroad, with football becoming a central part of many summer travel plans.
The study also found that more than a quarter (27%) of football-loving couples have experienced holiday disagreements over match schedules, showing that tournament fever can sometimes create tension away from home.
A Clear Generational Divide on Football and Holidays
The research uncovered a notable generation gap when it comes to football viewing habits during holidays.
More than six in ten Gen Z (62%) and Millennial (61%) travellers believe it’s perfectly acceptable to watch a football match during a romantic holiday occasion.
In contrast, only 30% of Baby Boomers agree, suggesting older travellers are far less willing to let football interrupt quality holiday time.
Fans Are Booking Destinations for the Atmosphere
Football isn’t just influencing what travellers do while away—it is also shaping where they choose to go.
The survey found that 38% of supporters intentionally book holidays in destinations known for their football culture and lively fan atmosphere. Whether it’s watching matches in bustling bars, joining local celebrations, or soaking up the energy when goals are scored, many fans want to be part of the action.
Holidaymakers Willing to Pay Extra for Live Match Access
For many travellers, watching a game on a smartphone by the pool simply isn’t enough.
The research found that:
- 70% of football fans consider a hotel’s sports screening facilities a major factor when booking.
- 59% would pay up to £100 extra per person for a resort guaranteed to show live World Cup matches.
- More than a quarter (27%) are planning a dedicated football-focused holiday this summer.
To cater to this demand, easyJet holidays has introduced a collection of football-friendly resorts across Europe and North Africa designed to deliver both sunshine and sporting action.
easyJet Holidays’ Top World Cup Fan-Cation Resorts
Lanzarote, Spain
Los Zocos Impressive Lanzarote
The resort’s main pool bar will feature tournament decorations, competing national flags, and extended opening hours for late-night fixtures.
Crete, Greece
Zeus Hotels Elea Mirabello Bay
Guests can enjoy extended all-inclusive service hours designed specifically around late-night North American kick-offs.
Sicily, Italy
Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa
The resort’s Xtra Time Sports Bar offers multiple screens, American-style snacks, and a lively sports atmosphere.
Dalaman, Turkey
Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa
Football fans can watch every match in the dedicated F-Lounge with English-language broadcasts and comfortable viewing spaces.
Fuerteventura, Spain
Alua Suites Fuerteventura
The resort combines giant-screen viewing experiences with private in-room access to free-to-air matches.
Paphos, Cyprus
Mayfair Hotel
The Flying Pig Sports Bar & Grill offers a dedicated fan atmosphere and large-screen match coverage throughout the tournament.
Mykonos, Greece
Acrogiali Beach Hotel
Beachside screening zones provide a luxury viewing experience for travellers wanting sport and relaxation in equal measure.
Hurghada, Egypt
Sunrise Solara Aqua Park Resort
The resort promises a lively sports-bar atmosphere with every match shown live.
easyJet Holidays Backs the Rise of the Fan-Cation
Commenting on the trend, Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said:
“We know how much our customers look forward to their summer breaks, but we also know that true football fans can’t just switch off their passion at passport control. Our data shows that ‘Fan-cations’ are a major trend for this summer, with Brits refusing to compromise on their holiday or their team.”
He added that easyJet holidays aims to make it easier for travellers to enjoy sunshine, value, and live sporting action all in one place.
How to Book a Football-Friendly Holiday
easyJet holidays packages include flights, hotel accommodation, transfers and a 23kg luggage allowance, with deposits starting from £60 per person.
Fans looking to combine beach time with World Cup fever can browse the company’s dedicated football-friendly hotel collection via the official easyJet holidays website:
You can also explore holiday packages directly through: easyJet holidays
