Traveling for away football games offers fans much more than just the sporting event, according to a October 23, 2026 report. During the months of September, October, November, and December, travelers departing from Salt Lake City Airport are frequently accompanied by large groups of fans wearing blue, red, or purple to support their teams.
For many supporters, the trip provides a way to connect with friends and family. Braden, a Utah County resident, travels with high school buddies to see BYU play in Fort Worth, Texas, noting that the trips are a fun way to stay connected. While the football game is the centerpiece, the experience often includes activities like staying in hotels with pools and sharing meals.
Quinn Merrill used a BYU game against TCU to host a family reunion. After driving from San Antonio to Fort Worth, Merrill met with family members who had flown in from Idaho to enjoy the weekend together.
Universities often host specific events to accommodate visiting fans. For the matchup against TCU, BYU organized a fan fest in a rented park in Carrollton, Texas. This event allowed fans to interact with the mascot, Cosmo, and practice moves with the Cougar cheerleaders.
Some fans engage in more elaborate traditions, such as David Hurst and his family. Driving from Fort Smith, Arkansas, the family wore homemade BYU costumes inspired by the Star Wars Mandalorian series. Hurst stated that the family will attend any BYU game located within a seven-hour drive.
The social aspect of traveling for sports can influence team outcomes for some. Braden mentioned a sense of superstition regarding road trips, noting that BYU typically performs well when his group attends. However, he recalled a difficult experience during last December's Big 12 Championship Game, where BYU lost 34-7 to Texas Tech.
Attending away games can foster a closer connection to the players and the team. In the recent matchup against TCU, BYU secured a 17-10 victory, with players interacting with fans by signing autographs and taking selfies around Ammon G. Carter Stadium.
