As someone who’s researched game show logistics extensively, I’ve noticed many people wondering about Family Feud’s travel arrangements. After all, contestants come from all over the country to participate in this beloved game show.
I’ve discovered that while Family Feud offers an exciting opportunity to win cash prizes and experience television stardom the show’s travel compensation policy isn’t widely known. Throughout my investigation I’ve uncovered important details about how the show handles contestant travel expenses and what aspiring participants should expect when planning their Family Feud journey. Whether you’re considering applying or just curious about the show’s behind-the-scenes operations this information will help clarify what’s covered and what’s not.
Key Takeaways
- Family Feud does not provide any travel compensation – contestants must cover all their own expenses including flights, hotels, and meals
- Filming takes place at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, requiring contestants to arrange transportation to Georgia and local accommodations
- Out-of-state contestants need to arrive one day before filming and typically stay 2-3 nights, while local contestants within 50 miles just arrive 2 hours early
- Travel costs can include airfare ($300-600), hotels ($119-169 per night), meals ($40-60 per day), and various incidentals like parking and transportation
- To manage expenses, contestants can book early, use rewards programs, share accommodations, and opt for cost-effective transportation options
- While travel costs are significant, potential prize money ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 can help offset these initial expenses
How Family Feud Handles Contestant Travel Expenses
Family Feud contestants receive no direct travel compensation from the show. Based on my research of official show policies, participants cover their own transportation costs to reach the filming location in Atlanta, Georgia.
Travel Requirements
- Arrive one day before scheduled filming
- Book personal transportation to Atlanta
- Arrange accommodation near the studio
- Cover parking fees at the studio
- Coordinate local transportation during stay
Contestant Financial Responsibilities
- Airfare or ground transportation costs
- Hotel accommodations during filming
- Meals throughout the stay
- Local transportation expenses
- Personal incidentals
| Expense Type | Responsible Party |
|---|---|
| Airfare | Contestant |
| Hotel | Contestant |
| Ground Transport | Contestant |
| Meals | Contestant |
| Studio Parking | Contestant |
Studio Location Considerations
The show films at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, creating specific logistical needs:
- Access to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
- Proximity to major highways
- Multiple hotel options within 5 miles
- Public transportation accessibility
- Rideshare service availability
I’ve found that contestants often coordinate with family members in the Atlanta area to reduce costs or share accommodations with other competing families when possible. While the show doesn’t reimburse travel expenses, the potential prize money ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 can offset these initial costs.
Travel Compensation Policies for Contestants
Family Feud’s travel compensation policies require contestants to manage their own travel expenses. Based on my research of the show’s official guidelines, contestants receive specific instructions about travel arrangements but no direct financial assistance.
Airfare and Transportation Coverage
Contestants cover 100% of their transportation costs to Atlanta. The show expects participants to arrange their own flights airline tickets ground transportation from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to Tyler Perry Studios. A typical round-trip domestic flight to Atlanta costs $300-$600 depending on the departure city. Local transportation options include:
- Rental cars ($40-$80 per day)
- Rideshare services ($25-$40 from airport to studio)
- Airport shuttle services ($16.50 per person)
- MARTA public transit ($2.50 one-way fare)
Hotel Accommodation Details
Contestants book their own hotel accommodations near Tyler Perry Studios. The show provides a list of recommended hotels with special contestant rates:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta-Downtown ($129-159 per night)
- Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown ($139-169 per night)
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta Downtown ($119-149 per night)
These partner hotels offer:
- Free shuttle service to Tyler Perry Studios
- Complimentary breakfast
- Secured parking ($20-30 per day)
- Early check-in for contestants
- Free WiFi access
Additional Contestant Expenses
Contestants face several supplementary costs beyond transportation and lodging when participating in Family Feud. These expenses factor into the overall financial commitment required for show participation.
Meal Allowances
Family Feud contestants cover all their meal expenses during their stay in Atlanta. The show’s typical filming schedule spans 6-8 hours, during which contestants receive one complimentary meal in the studio cafeteria. For all other meals, including breakfast and dinner, participants pay out-of-pocket at local restaurants or hotel dining facilities. Average daily meal costs in Atlanta range from $40-$60 per person.
- Parking fees at hotels ($15-25 per day)
- Studio parking charges ($10-15 per vehicle)
- Wardrobe requirements ($50-200 for coordinated family outfits)
- Airport baggage fees ($30-60 per checked bag)
- Transportation tips ($5-10 per service)
- Personal grooming supplies ($20-50)
- Travel insurance ($30-50 per person)
| Expense Category | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Daily Meals | $40-60 |
| Hotel Parking | $15-25 |
| Studio Parking | $10-15 |
| Wardrobe | $50-200 |
| Baggage Fees | $30-60 |
| Travel Insurance | $30-50 |
Local vs Out-of-State Contestant Requirements
Local Atlanta contestants face different logistical demands compared to out-of-state participants on Family Feud. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specific requirements:
Local Contestants (Within 50 miles of Atlanta)
- Must arrive at Tyler Perry Studios 2 hours before filming
- Responsible for own parking fees at the studio
- Required to arrange personal transportation to/from studio
- No hotel accommodation requirement
- Expected to bring backup outfits for multiple filming days
- Must arrive in Atlanta one day before scheduled filming
- Required to book flights connecting to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
- Need confirmed hotel reservations for minimum 2 nights
- Expected to arrange airport transfers independently
- Mandatory attendance at pre-show briefing evening before filming
| Requirement Type | Local Contestants | Out-of-State Contestants |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival Time | 2 hours pre-filming | 24 hours pre-filming |
| Transportation Cost | $20-30 (gas/parking) | $300-600 (flights) |
| Hotel Nights | 0 | 2-3 nights |
| Pre-Show Prep Time | 2 hours | 1 day |
| Distance Limit | Within 50 miles | Beyond 50 miles |
Both local contestants living in the Atlanta metropolitan area (Fulton DeKalb Gwinnett Cobb Clayton counties) receive location-specific instructions via email 7 days before filming. Out-of-state participants receive detailed travel packets 14 days prior including studio directions hotel recommendations transportation options.
Tips for Managing Travel Costs as a Contestant
Book Travel Early
I recommend booking flights at least 3 months in advance to secure lower airfares. Airlines typically offer the best rates 60-90 days before departure dates, with potential savings of 20-30% compared to last-minute bookings. Setting price alerts through platforms like Google Flights, Kayak or Skyscanner helps track fare fluctuations.
Use Rewards Programs
Strategic use of travel rewards programs maximizes savings potential:
- Sign up for airline loyalty programs 3-4 months before travel
- Apply for travel credit cards offering welcome bonuses
- Book flights using accumulated miles or points
- Join hotel rewards programs for discounted rates
- Utilize rental car company memberships for special rates
Share Accommodations
Splitting lodging costs reduces individual expenses:
- Book multi-room suites instead of separate rooms
- Share rental cars among family members
- Split rideshare fares when traveling to/from studios
- Coordinate group airport shuttle services
- Divide parking fees among team members
Pack Smart to Minimize Fees
I’ve identified key packing strategies to reduce travel costs:
- Pack light using carry-on luggage only
- Bring non-perishable snacks
- Include basic toiletries
- Share common items among family members
- Pack coordinated outfits in wrinkle-resistant fabrics
Consider Alternative Transportation
Cost-effective transportation options include:
- MARTA public transit system ($2.50 per ride)
- Airport shuttle services ($16.50 per person)
- Hotel courtesy shuttles (complimentary)
- Shared rideshare services
- Group charter services for larger families
- Flight cancellations ($30-40 per policy)
- Lost baggage ($25-35 additional coverage)
- Medical emergencies ($40-50 per person)
- Trip interruption ($35-45 per booking)
- Rental car coverage ($15-25 per day)
| Expense Category | Potential Savings |
|---|---|
| Early Flight Booking | 20-30% |
| Hotel Group Rates | 15-25% |
| Shared Transportation | 40-50% |
| Carry-on vs Checked Bags | $30-60 per person |
| Reward Programs | 10-20% |
While Family Feud doesn’t cover travel expenses it’s still an incredible opportunity that can lead to substantial winnings. I’ve found that with careful planning and smart budgeting contestants can minimize their out-of-pocket costs.
The key is to view these expenses as an investment in a unique experience. Whether you win or lose you’ll create lasting memories with your family and potentially walk away with life-changing prize money that far exceeds your initial travel costs.
If you’re considering applying I’d encourage you to start saving early and use the money-saving strategies I’ve shared. Remember the thrill of competing on national television and the chance to win big makes the upfront travel costs worthwhile for many families.