The World Cup isn’t just an excuse to spend money – it can also be a brilliant opportunity to make some
Whether you’re cheering on England or Scotland, backing another nation or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no escaping World Cup feve r.
For many of us, the tournament also means spending more than usual. There are extra trips to the pub, supermarket shops get bigger, and plenty of people splash out on a new TV or garden gear to enjoy the matches.
The good news is that the World Cup isn’t just an excuse to spend money – it can also be a brilliant opportunity to make some.
From renting out an empty parking space to selling old football shirts gathering dust in the loft, there are plenty of easy ways to earn extra cash over the coming weeks.
Here are some of my favourite ideas.
Rent out your driveway
If you live near a town centre, train station, popular pub or fan zone where people gather to watch matches, your driveway could become surprisingly valuable.
This isn’t about inviting football fans into your home or hosting watch parties. You’re simply renting out an unused parking space to people travelling into busy areas to watch the games.
Platforms such as JustPark and YourParkingSpace make it easy to list your space, choose when it’s available and earn money on busy match days.
Cash in on a spare room
Accommodation prices often rise during major sporting events.
If you have a spare room and don’t mind hosting visitors, you could earn a tidy sum by listing it on Airbnb or another holiday rental site, particularly if you live close to good transport links or popular viewing locations.
Dig out old football shirts
Before you throw away that old England, Scotland or club shirt, check what it’s worth.
Vintage football shirts, old programmes, sticker albums, scarves and signed memorabilia can all attract collectors during the World Cup.
Take a look on eBay or Vinted to see what similar items are selling for before listing yours.
Sell match-day treats
If you’re handy in the kitchen, football-themed food can be a great little earner.
Cupcakes, brownies, grazing boxes, BBQ packs and snack platters are all popular during the tournament.
If you’re selling homemade food, make sure you follow food hygiene rules and any local requirements.
Deliver takeaways
Millions of people order food while watching football, especially during the biggest games.
That means delivery drivers are often in high demand, making it a good time to pick up extra shifts with companies such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats or Just Eat.
Offer babysitting
Not everyone wants to spend the evening watching football.
Parents heading to pubs, fan zones or friends’ houses may need someone to look after the children for a few hours.
If you already babysit, this can be one of the busiest times of the year. Do check any legalities around this.
Look after pets
People travelling to matches or spending long evenings out may need someone to care for their pets.
Offering dog walking or pet sitting through services like Rover can be a straightforward way to boost your income.
Sell garden gear you no longer use
World Cup watch parties mean people suddenly realise they’re missing something.
Old BBQs, camping chairs, cool boxes, projectors, outdoor speakers and gazebos can all be in demand as families prepare to watch matches outside.
Make football-themed crafts
If you’re creative, now’s the perfect time to sell handmade football decorations.
England or Scotland bunting, personalised T-shirts, mugs, party decorations and printable sweepstake kits can all prove popular.
Start football content online
The World Cup creates huge demand for predictions, reactions and fan opinions.
Whether it’s TikTok, YouTube or a blog, entertaining football content could eventually earn money through advertising, affiliate links or sponsorships.
Don’t forget cashback
Buying snacks, drinks or even a new television?
Before you check out, see if the retailer is available through cashback sites such as TopCashback or Quidco so you can earn a little money back on purchases you were making anyway.
Be cautious with betting offers
Bookmakers often launch generous promotions during the World Cup.
Some experienced users make use of these through matched betting, but it isn’t risk-free. It requires careful attention to detail and mistakes can cost money, so it’s only suitable for adults who fully understand how it works and can afford any potential losses.
Pick up temporary work
The hospitality industry gets particularly busy during major tournaments.
Pubs, bars, restaurants and event venues often need extra staff, making it a good opportunity to earn additional income over a few weeks.
Sell your old TV
Thinking about upgrading for the football?
Demand for second-hand televisions often increases around major sporting events, so it could be the ideal time to sell your old one.
Sell what football fans suddenly need
It’s not just football memorabilia that flies off the shelves.
Flags, face paints, portable speakers, picnic tables, drinks coolers and even garden furniture can all be worth listing online while demand is high.
The bottom line
The World Cup only comes around every four years, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and the spending, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to bring in some extra cash.
Whether it’s renting out a parking space, clearing out forgotten football memorabilia, picking up extra work or selling things you no longer use, making the most of the tournament could help boost your bank balance long after the final whistle has blown.
