Another season of Auburn Football is upon us, bringing with it plenty of opportunities to visit conference rivals on their home turf.
A weekend following the Tigers out of state can prove costly, both financially and in terms of planning.
However, companies exist to lighten that load.
One such company is Rivalry Roadtrips, an organization that handles accommodations such as transportation, food and lodging for select road games through the schedules of 16 division-one football programs.
Rivalry Roadtrips, LLC formed with one goal in mind- to help college students follow their beloved sports teams to the biggest road games, said the Rivalry Roadtrips Web site.
"It is our mission to arrange and offer hassle-free trips that are easy on the wallet, but bring a first-class experience," the company owners said.
The company's ambition seems to be to satisfy its customers in every way.
"By partnering with luxury charter bus companies, hotel groups, bars and restaurants, we are able to make the most of your money all while bringing you a trip that you won't forget," said the Rivalry Roadtrips Web site.
The program has its roots at the University of Iowa where, in 2001, a group of students organized a trip to see the Hawkeyes play the Wisconsin Badgers.
They took their experience and created the Rivalry Roadtrips, working with companies such as Windstar Lines charter buses, the InterContinental Hotels Group, the Wyndham Hotel Group and Jimmy John's to create packages for fans wishing to attend away football games.
Originally encompassing the Big Ten conference only, the institution has spread to cater to the Big 12 and the SEC, specifically Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee.
"Rivalry Roadtrips is a great way for anyone, whether they are alumni, an auburn student or a fan, to enjoy an affordable, hassle-free trip while cheering on the Auburn Tigers," said Kellie Camuso, a junior in public relations, who serves as an Auburn representative for Rivalry Roadtrips. "We also have great discounts for large groups. All you have to do is sign up and we do the rest of the work for you."
Available Auburn trips this season include the Tennessee, LSU and Georgia football games.
The Web page for each trip contains a short description of the state of the rival's football program, a summary of the city's restaurants and nightlife, as well as a list of what is specifically included in the trip.
Registration is online, with the fee due at that time.
Early bird specials are available the earlier one registers, and discounts come with large group orders.
"Personally I don't like going on organized tours," said Niki Juhasz, a freshman in public relations. "I like to walk around and discover a place for myself. I can see how it could be convenient for some people though, because some people aren't good with directions. If someone were trying to go to all the games in a particular season I can see how this would be a good program to latch on to."
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