1) Something to look forward to
Not that a cup replay on a rainy Tuesday night hundreds of miles away isn’t fun, mind...
2) Get ready...
TV, radio, and website – however you hear about the latest sports news, transfer rumours and of course, European draws, have an email prepared for your friends with the name of the city you’re heading to preceding the word ‘baby!’ capped up.
3) Get in there early
Because who wants to get to Milan, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Marseille etc and not have anywhere decent to put your head down? So, as soon as your team’s number is called out make sure you know where you’re staying.
4) Reliable friend
It’s unfortunate but one of you has to be the one to arrange it all so decide amongst yourselves and nominate that person. Having trouble deciding? We always find that ‘bagsy not it’ works a treat.
5) Travel light
It’s not much fun waiting at baggage reclaim for an overnight bag when you could have all you need in a carry-on bag, ready to explore your temporary home.
6) Passports are a must
At the risk of sounding like a nagging parent, they really are. Aside from allowing you to travel, the document provides excellent ammunition for friends to conjure up insults about the state of your photograph. Oh, and don’t forget the ball – a spontaneous town centre kick about with the locals is never too far away! Think Scotland supporters under the Eiffel Tower at France ’98.
7) Adapt to your surroundings
Don’t forget the local phrase book – ordering a local beer is vital for any travelling fan. Perhaps also walk into a bar or cafe armed with knowledge of the opposition to impress your gracious hosts, rather than repeatedly shouting the name of a star player in an excitable tone with your thumbs up.
8) When in Rome...
Or Paris, Madrid and Turin for that matter, whatever city you find yourself following your club in, as a football fan it’s only right that you visit the opposition’s home and take in the vast history associated with it on a football stadium tour. It would simply be rude not to!
9) Enjoy the match!
After all, it is why you’re there and there is no doubting that these European nights will live long in the mind.
10) Cherished memory
Who knows, perhaps you’ll get lost in the euphoria of an historic win and wake up with the previous night’s post match celebrations a blur. There is a solution to this; pose for the obligatory thumbs up photograph outside the Nou Camp, San Siro etc, showing off those panda eyes while looking back fondly on a memorable trip.
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