The world’s biggest soccer tournament is coming to North America — and what better way to make it a family adventure than with an RV? Picture it: kids with faces painted in team colors, the roar of the crowd in their ears, and a home-on-wheels waiting after the match. A cramped hotel room can’t compete.
Of course, traveling with kids in an RV can feel daunting at first. Where will they sleep? How do you keep them happy on long drives? Don’t worry — with a little planning, an RV trip can be the easiest (and most fun) way to turn this summer into a memory your family will never forget.
1. Choose the Right Rig: Your Family’s Home Base
Picking the right RV is the key to harmony on the road. Space, layout, and kid-friendly features matter.
- The “Bunkhouse” Layout: Look for rigs with bunk beds tucked into their own corner. Kids love having their own little zone, and you’ll love the peace it brings.
- Class C Motorhome = Family MVP: These are roomy, easy to drive, and feel like a proper home. Bonus: the space over the cab usually doubles as a big bed or play nook.
- Don’t Skip the Slide-Out: A slide-out wall expands when parked, adding precious floor space for play, lounging, or just avoiding stepping on Legos barefoot.
2. Plan Your Itinerary for the Whole Team
The secret to family RVing is pacing. Build your trip around the 3/3/3 Rule:
- 300 miles max (about 3–4 hours of driving).
- Arrive by 3 p.m. so kids can run off energy before dinner.
- Stay 3 nights minimum per stop to avoid endless packing/unpacking.
Other pro moves:
- Pick Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: KOAs, Jellystone Parks™, and family resorts often come with pools, playgrounds, and fields for impromptu soccer matches.
- Get Kids Involved: Show them photos of the next campground or roadside stop so they feel like part of the plan.
3. Master the Art of On-the-Road Entertainment
Beat the dreaded “Are we there yet?” with a little strategy:
- Activity Box: A bin filled with coloring books, games, and small toys that only comes out on drive days = magic.
- Audiobooks Over Screens: Engaging for everyone and easier on eyes. Choose family-friendly series to make the miles fly by.
- Snack Bin = Sanity Saver: Stock healthy faves plus a few treats. Easy access keeps moods high and meltdowns low.
4. Pack Smart, Not Just More
RV storage is generous but not unlimited. Prioritize:
- Layered Clothing: Weather swings are real when you’re crossing regions.
- Comfort from Home: Let kids bring their pillow, blanket, or small toy bag. Their bunk feels like their space.
- Outdoor Essentials: Camp chairs, a big outdoor mat (less dirt inside), and balls or frisbees for instant campground fun.
Final Whistle
An RV family trip for the 2026 Summer of Soccer isn’t just about the matches — it’s about the road, the laughs, and the campfire stories. With a little prep, you’ll trade stress for adventure and give your kids a memory they’ll carry long after the final whistle.
