British travellers love to take part in sporting events so much that one in six (16%) admit they’d be willing to travel thousands of miles to do so, according to a new survey by Hyatt. This growing trend – dubbed “sports-tripping” – sees people combine their love of taking part in sport with ticking off bucket list destinations.
The survey of 2,000 Brits, commissioned by Hyatt and conducted by Perspectus Global during March 2025, also reveals that typically people plan to take part in five sporting events in the next 12 months, with two in five saying this is more than previous years. Football tournaments (48%), cycling races (20%) and swimming competitions (18%) topped the list of favourite events. More than a quarter of people are planning to turn their marathon race calendars into travel itineraries, while almost one in 10 (8%) will be taking part in a bodybuilding competition.
“Travel that positively impacts travellers’ mental, emotional and physical health has been on the rise for a couple of years, and the demand for sport-focused travel feeds directly into this trend as a brilliant way to combine travelling the world with your interests,” said TJ Abrams, VP of Global Wellbeing, Hyatt. “Not only are these races and tournaments inspiring travellers to discover new places, but the events are also fitting into their itineraries between sightseeing, restaurants and relaxation. Whether it’s a good night’s sleep before a race, a hearty breakfast on the big day, or wellness facilities to unwind afterwards, we are committed to providing the best possible experience that caters to travellers’ holistic wellbeing needs.”
Survey insights
The key motivations driving the sports-tripping trend include a sense of fulfilment and adrenaline rush (37%), a motivation “to get fit” (35%) and mingling with other fans of our chosen sport (22%).
However, a quarter like participating in sporting events because it allows them to spend quality time with family and friends – which is likely why almost three in five (57%) Sports-trippers travel with their friend group. In fact, Brits often take a 14-strong entourage on their sports-tripping adventures. Bringing along partners and children (52%) and wider family (22%) is also typical, though 14% travel with their work colleagues.
With sports increasingly becoming a major source of travel inspiration, sports-trippers use these events as an excuse to visit a destination they’ve already visited and loved (15%) or to explore a new destination on their bucket list (15%). In fact, one in six Brits (16%) would even plan a holiday around a sporting event they’re taking part in.
And when it comes to somewhere to stay, hotel accommodation plays an important role in the trip. Sports-trippers value the ease of getting to the sports venue (57%) and a central location (43%) the most. One in four (22%) want on-site sports facilities to work-out and stretch their muscles, while one in five (19%) always look out for a spa for some well-earned relaxation post the event.