There‘s nothing like being at a Formula 1 Grand Prix in person. The rush, the roar of the engines, the whole spectacle of it all – it‘s something that dreams are made of for many fans across the globe. But come on: it‘s also pricey. From race tickets and air fare to hotel stays and meals, one weekend of a race can easily drain your wallet.
But is it necessary?
The answer is no — unless you plan astutely. Here in this short article, I‘ll guide you through rational advice on how to save money and still have the entire thrill of a race weekend. Whether it‘s your maiden GP or you‘re a seasoned pro who needs to belt up, here‘s how to do it on a shoestring.
1. Choose the Right Grand Prix.
The first major choice is which race to attend — and it can cost all the world. All Grands Prix are not priced alike.
Monaco, Las Vegas, Miami, Singapore — great races but with luxury prices. But the opposite, races in Hungary, Austria, and even Belgium offer great racing at a fraction of the cost.
For the budget traveler, however, the Budapest Hungarian Grand Prix is one that will please: inexpensive tickets, minimal public transport prices, and quite low accommodation and dining out costs. And it‘s a beautiful city to stroll around. Most of the Eastern European and some Asian racing events are usually great value overall.
Tip: Check out historical ticket prices and include the cost of flights and hotel accommodation in the host city before you book. Sometimes a flight to a “cheaper“ GP proves more expensive overall because of long-haul airfare.
2. Purchase Early, Be Flexible.
Prices for tickets to most GPs go up as you get closer to race weekend. The best time to buy? As soon as tickets go on sale — typically 6–9 months in advance.
Flexibility is on your side, too. Most circuits have multiple levels of tickets, from general admission (lowest) to grandstand and VIP hospitality (highest). If you’re willing to stand and wander, general admission can be an incredible experience to watch the race — and usually costs one-third as much as a seat.
Bonus: Some circuits (e.g., Silverstone or Spa) have 3-day GA passes so you get to enjoy different vantage points a day.
3. Travel with Friends or Join a Forum.
Solo traveling? Costs really pile up. Having your mates with you means splitting hotel rooms, Ubers, parking tickets, and even food.
If you do not have F1 friends, online fan communities are a treasure trove. Facebook fan groups or Reddit‘s r/formula1 often have travelers who are happy to swap trip plans or even sell tickets at face value. There are ride shares, shared Airbnb, and tips from others who have undertaken the same race.
4. Travel Smart.
Flights and transport typically account for your highest expense. In order to save:
Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner, and price alert when prices reduce.
Travel mid-week. Thursday to Monday is occasionally cheaper than Friday to Sunday.
Check out local airports. An example is flying into Vienna and catching the 3-hour train to Budapest, which is less expensive than flying direct.
Take public transport. Circuits like Monza, Barcelona, and Suzuka have excellent train connections. Don’t take rental vehicles if possible — parking is expensive and traffic on race day is abysmal.
5. Budget Hotel Tips.
Hotels near the circuit charge more for race weekend — and they sell out fast. Avoid:
Make a reservation well ahead. As early as you possibly can. Even 9–12 months beforehand.
Look further out. Being 30–60 minutes from the circuit cuts hotel costs in half.
Airbnb or hostels will suffice — and in Europe especially, public transport means you can easily travel around.
Camping is extremely popular at some races (especially Silverstone and Spa), and not only is it cheaper, but you’re right in the middle of the action as far as the fans are concerned.
6. Save on Food and Drinks.
Food track is famously overcharging. Budget €10–15 for a hot dog and a soda.
If you have re-admission on your ticket, bring your own lunch or snacks and drop it in the locker or in the car. Even some tracks allow bringing a small bag with food and a water bottle — check first what they allow.
Grocery stores and local bakeries are a lifesaver. Grabbing a good breakfast before you head to the track will prevent you from splurging on those pricey burgers at lunch.
7. Don’t Just Watch the Race, Watch Practice Too.
Many fans just watch Sunday‘s race — but the practice sessions on Friday and qualifying on Saturday are just as much fun, less crowded, and cheaper if you buy day-specific tickets.
If you don’t have money to spend for the entire weekend, attending only Saturday‘s qualifying can be an enormous bang for your buck: all the quick drivers race flat out, and the tension is palpable.
8. Steer clear of the Merch Tent (or Shop Wisely).
Official equipment is tempting — expensive. You’ll be paying €40–60 for a cap and €100+ for a sweatshirt. Instead, buy before the race weekend. Online stores usually give discounts in the run-up to major events, or you can buy from third-party sellers.
Want to buy a memento to remember the experience? Buy a program, ticket stub, or photos — they‘re free and more personal.
Last Thoughts.
Enjoying a Formula 1 Grand Prix doesn‘t have to cost an arm and a leg. A little forethought, flexibility, and a few money-saving tips and tricks have you sampling the full race weekend experience — the revving, the passes, the buzz — without the fiscal hangover.
Plan now, and your dream of seeing F1 in the flesh may be closer (and cheaper) than you think.