By Richard C. Vara, M.A.
Editor-in-Chief, The VCR Show
HOUSTON ( June 11, 2025) – When visiting Houston, there are several precautions you should take, especially if you are attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The first thing you will notice is the heat. Texas summers are hot, and there is not much you can do about that. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the heat.
- If possible, limit your outdoor activities. Sunset is around 8:30 p.m. Between 10 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., the heat can be unbearable.
- Try to stay cool by participating in indoor activities. Houston is home to many museums, shopping centers and attractions that offer relief from the heat.
- Consider carrying a small towel to manage perspiration. This is common practice in Houston and can help you stay comfortable.
- Dress in light, loose-fitting clothing. Sunglasses and a cap are also recommended.
- Wear sunscreen. Prolonged exposure to the sun can quickly lead to sunburn.
The heat is not the only challenge visitors may encounter. Another major issue in Houston is mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are a significant concern in Houston and across Texas. During the past five years, 976 cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Texas. Of those cases, 106 resulted in death, according to a 2026 Houston Public Media report. Harris County of Public Health recommends the used of repellent. You can find repellent at almost any store in Houston. Grocery stores , pharmacies , Big box stores and hardware stores will carry mosquito repellent. You won’t have any issues finding it in Houston.
Traffic is another major issue in Houston. There is a joke in the Bayou City that Houston is an hour away from Houston, and for many residents, that joke is becoming reality. According to the INRIX 2025 Global Traffic Scorecard, Houston drivers lost approximately 70 hours to traffic delays during the year.
Traffic is expected to become even more challenging during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to a KPRC report, more than 500,000 visitors are expected to travel to Houston for the tournament. Transportation officials warn that some commutes could take twice as long on match days because of increased traffic around NRG Stadium and other key travel corridors.
Visitors should also understand that Houston is not a city where most people rely on extensive public transportation. Unlike cities such as New York City, London or Paris, Houston is spread across a large metropolitan area and many destinations are separated by considerable distances. The METRO rail and bus systems are useful in some parts of the city, but they do not connect the region in the same way that larger transit networks do.
Officials also noted that many fans are expected to arrive at the stadium as much as three hours before kickoff, creating additional congestion well before matches begin. Visitors should plan ahead, allow extra travel time and consider using public transportation, rideshare services or park-and-ride options when possible.
As a native Houstonian, I recommend leaving at least an hour before your event. Unless you are staying nearby, you will need to factor in travel time, traffic, parking and security screening before you even reach your seat. I also strongly recommend using a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft. What you spend on parking may cover much of the cost of the ride, and it could save you both time and frustration. Most importantly, it will spare you the stress of driving in Houston traffic.
Houston may test your patience with its heat, traffic and mosquitoes, but it will reward you with great food, unforgettable experiences and Southern hospitality. As one of the most diverse cities in the United States, Houston offers visitors world-class museums, internationally recognized dining and a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the nation’s second-largest theater district and Tony Award-winning theaters, making it a destination for much more than soccer.
Plan ahead, stay hydrated and give yourself extra time to get where you are going. Most importantly, enjoy the 2026 FIFA World Cup and everything Houston has to offer. Welcome to the Space City.
