March Madness Made Easy: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning the Perfect Tournament Trip and Tailgate
March Madness isn't just a basketball tournament – it's a cultural phenomenon that brings friends and families together for unforgettable experiences. Whether you're following your alma mater or just love the excitement of college basketball, planning a group trip to catch the tournament action requires strategy and coordination. We've created this comprehensive guide to help you organize the perfect March Madness adventure, from securing tickets to planning an epic tailgate celebration.
Step 1: Lock in Your Tickets Early The key to a successful March Madness experience starts with smart ticket planning:
Monitor prices using the SeatGeek Deal Score system to find the best value seats
Set up price alerts through VividSeats to track ticket pricing trends
Consider StubHub's verified resale platform for last-minute ticket opportunities
Check Ticketmaster's official venue websites for initial ticket releases
Pro Tip: Many venues offer group booking discounts for 10 or more tickets, which can lead to significant savings.
Step 2: Secure Group-Friendly Accommodations Finding the right lodging is crucial for large groups:
Search for large vacation rentals through VRBO that can accommodate your entire crew
Compare hotel group rates through Hotels.com for nearby properties
Use Expedia's group booking leverage to secure better rates
Consider Booking.com's split payment schedules for easier group coordination
Accommodation Tips:
Look for properties with complimentary meeting spaces for pre-game gatherings
Prioritize locations with parking for tailgating equipment
Consider suite upgrades for larger groups to create common social areas
Step 3: Transportation and Logistics Coordinating group movement requires careful planning:
Explore Southwest Vacations for package deals combining flights and hotels
Utilize group travel hacks to keep everyone organized
Consider shuttle services for groups to avoid parking hassles
Use Splitwise for group travel to manage shared expenses
Step 4: Perfect Your Tailgate Game Create an unforgettable pre-game experience:
Reserve prime tailgating spots in advance
Organize group meal planning and shopping lists
Create themed decorations matching your team's colors
Prepare weather contingency plans
Step 5: Maximize Your Tournament Experience Make the most of your March Madness adventure:
Download essential apps (SeatGeek app, StubHub app, VividSeats app) for real-time updates
Join venue membership contests for exclusive perks
Follow social media ticket deals for last-minute opportunities
Use price tracking apps to monitor ticket fluctuations
Budget Management Tips:
Utilize credit card rewards on bookings for additional savings
Look for food and beverage minimums when booking group spaces
Consider fixed travel costs to help with budget planning
Explore flexible payment options for groups
Planning a March Madness group outing doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and utilizing the right tools and platforms, you can create an incredible tournament experience for everyone involved. Start your planning early, stay organized, and get ready for one of college basketball's greatest traditions.
Ready to start planning your March Madness adventure? Visit FortyBags.com to access our complete suite of group planning tools and exclusive partner deals. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates on ticket releases and accommodation specials for the tournament.
