Super Bowl and Beyond: 2016's top sports events to book now

Now that we’re down to two final contenders, Super Bowl fever’s hitting sports fans hard. Looking to see the Big Game with your own eyes, right there in Santa Clara’s Levi’s Stadium? The privilege doesn’t come cheap: Pricey game tickets aside, airfares from Denver and Charlotte rose 113% and 64% percent respectively after Sunday’s semifinal games. Meanwhile, hotel rates in the Bay Area are up 112% more week-over-week.

And while there are still some deals left (see the most updated info here), the takeaway again seems to be: Book early. Here’s a look ahead at 2016’s top sporting events, so you can get a jump start — and a great price — on your next sports-related trip:

Spring Training

With 30 ballparks across Florida and Arizona, and millions of fans traveling to see their favorite teams play, getting away to these pre-season games is no longer a best-kept secret. Spring Training has fast become a popular Spring Break alternative for families and college students, not to mention the super fans who have likely already booked their trips. While game tickets remain affordable, they go fast for popular teams and rivalries. Hotels in most areas typically do not sell out, but can get pricey, especially for weekend games. Traveling mid-week will net the best deals on flights and hotels, as well as less crowds at the ballpark.

Kentucky Derby

This annual event is not only one of the most prestigious among horse racing fans, it’s also a party that no one wants to miss – especially on the heels of last year’s Triple Crown winner. A red carpet, nationally broadcast event, The Derby is bigger and more popular than ever. Although Louisville may not be full of revelers until May 6, hotels will likely start to sell out much earlier. Last year, most hotels were booked six weeks ahead, and many require a minimum night stay. This southern city’s small airport also offers limited flights, causing airfare prices to skyrocket – last year averaging $461 – over Derby weekend. Book early or plan to celebrate with your own Derby party at home.

2016 Summer Games

Undoubtedly the largest sporting event of the year, millions of athletes and spectators will travel to Rio de Janeiro to participate in this international competition and celebration. Event tickets have been on sale since October, with hotels currently averaging $276/night and airfare to Rio de Janeiro averaging $1,028. One of Orbitz.com’s hot destinations for 2016, this city is sure to see increases for airfare and hotels as the games approach.

World Cup of Hockey

While it has been 12 years since this international hockey tournament last took place, 2016 marks the first year after which it will be held on a regular basis every four years. Organized by the National Hockey League (NHL), fans of this growing sport can experience history in Toronto as eight of the world’s best teams hit the ice, including Team USA, Team Russia, Team Canada and Team Czech Republic. Tickets to the World Cup have already gone on sale and travelers can capitalize on affordable prices for trips to Toronto by booking early. Hotels in Toronto during the event (Sept. 17 – Oct. 1) currently average just $146/night.