When it comes to major sporting events, securing a place to stay can often be as difficult as buying a ticket. This year’s Ryder Cup is no exception. Fans eager to attend golf’s most prestigious team competition are finding themselves priced out of hotels or unable to book them at all. The result? Many are searching for creative and often costly alternatives to ensure they don’t miss the action.
With hotels near the tournament site either fully booked or charging rates far higher than normal, visitors are turning to short-term rental platforms, private guesthouses, and even campsites. These options may not always provide the convenience of traditional hotels, but they are giving fans a way to stay close to the event.
Some fans have reported paying several times the usual nightly rate for rentals, with properties in the host city and surrounding towns commanding premium prices. Others have opted for long commutes from distant hotels to balance cost and access. For many, the expense is simply part of the experience of attending one of golf’s most celebrated events.
“I knew it would be expensive, but I wasn’t expecting it to be this high,” said one fan who booked a small apartment at more than double the typical rate. “Still, it’s the Ryder Cup. You don’t want to miss it.”
Event organizers have acknowledged the accommodation challenges, noting that demand for rooms has far outstripped supply. Local tourism boards have worked with communities to expand options, promoting everything from converted farmhouses to temporary lodges designed specifically for visitors.
Campsites have become a surprising but popular alternative. Many golf fans are embracing the communal atmosphere, bringing caravans or tents and turning the tournament into a festival-like experience. While this may not suit every traveler, it has given thousands a more affordable—though still costly—solution.
Private homeowners are also benefiting from the surge in demand. Platforms offering short-term stays have seen record listings, with some residents renting out their entire homes for the week at prices that can rival luxury resorts. For locals, it’s an opportunity to cash in on the global attention brought by the Ryder Cup.
Travel experts warn that fans should remain cautious when booking through unofficial sources, as high demand can sometimes lead to scams or unsafe conditions. They advise sticking to reputable platforms and verifying listings before making payments.
The issue of soaring accommodation costs is not unique to golf. Similar challenges have been seen at events such as the Olympics, the World Cup, and major tennis tournaments. In each case, demand for proximity to the action drives up prices, forcing visitors to weigh convenience against affordability.
Despite the high costs, enthusiasm for the Ryder Cup remains strong. Tickets sold out quickly, and organizers expect record attendance throughout the week. Fans say the atmosphere of the tournament—defined by passionate support, international rivalry, and dramatic competition—is worth the sacrifices.
Local businesses are also seeing the impact of the event. Restaurants, pubs, and shops near the venue are preparing for a surge in visitors, with many extending hours and offering special menus. Economists note that the Ryder Cup can generate tens of millions in local revenue, making it a major boost for the host region.
For many attendees, the challenge of finding a place to stay has become part of the story of their trip. Some view it as an inconvenience, while others see it as part of the adventure that comes with following world-class sport.
In the end, the Ryder Cup’s draw is powerful enough to overcome even steep accommodation prices. Whether staying in luxury rentals, modest campsites, or spare rooms, fans are determined to be there when the first tee shot is struck.
