The beginning of fall means football is back, and it’s time to tailgate. Sometimes, tailgating before and after the big game is just as important as the actual event. The pressure to put on a great party can be overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. Here are a few essentials you’ll need to throw a memorable tailgating party.
Canopy Tent
Depending on where you live, it can still get pretty toasty in the fall. A pop-up canopy is a great way to provide shade, allowing everyone in your group to stay comfortable even on the warmest days. It’s also a perfect solution for days where there’s a chance of rain showers. When choosing a pop-up canopy, be sure that the legs of the tent are sturdy yet lightweight enough to easily maneuver and transport it wherever you need to go.
High-Quality Chef Knives
Every good cook understands the importance of a high-quality chef knife set. The right knives will make your prep work quick and effortless. Choose a set that features several different knife types for all your needs. A nicely constructed carrying case made of canvas or other tough material is also essential for organization and safety. If you frequently cook outdoors, you may also want to consider investing in a set of outdoor knives.
Portable Grill
A portable grill is designed to be easy to carry to a parking lot or other outdoor setting. When choosing the right tailgating grill, consider the size of your crowd and your preferred fuel of choice. While propane is easy to buy, transport, and use, larger tanks can be a nuisance. Charcoal is a classic choice and known for delivering great flavor, but temperature control can be tricky. Electric grills are easily portable, but you’ll need to run them on either your car engine or a generator.
If you’re planning on feeding a larger crew, you’ll need a grill that has a larger cooking capacity. Otherwise, your guests may be waiting a while before their meal is ready to eat.
Portable Smoker
Much like choosing the right grill, a good portable smoker should be easily portable and large enough to feed your crowd. A smoker that features wheels, handles, or folding legs will be easy to set up wherever you need to go. Some smokers also have a grilling option, which may be more convenient than bringing a separate unit for each cooking method on your next game day.
Prep Table
As a tailgating chef, you’ll need a clean and sturdy area where you can do all your prep work and set down your knife bag before you fire up your grill. Look for a small folding table that is durable, can support at least 100 pounds, and has adjustable height options. Models that have a carrying handle also make transportation effortless. Remember, serving up a tailgating feast can get messy, so make sure your table features a non-stick, stain-resistant surface that’s easy to clean.
Ice Cooler
Whether you’re keeping your drinks chilled or storing perishables like salads or meats, a high-quality cooler is the lifeblood of your tailgating party. For frequent events, invest in a rotomolded cooler since they work very well to keep contents cold for lengthy periods. They are also damage resistant, which makes them ideal for outdoor activities. Make sure yours is also large enough and features wheels to enhance portability.
Bluetooth Speaker
Whether you’re playing your team’s fight songs or singing along to your favorite tailgate anthems, nothing keeps your party going like the right playlist. When deciding on the right speaker, make sure it’s weather-resistant in case of rain and rugged enough to withstand the outdoor action. Also, check that it has excellent sound quality and long battery life to last throughout your entire event.
Activities to Pass the Time
While food is a huge part of tailgating, having a few activities on hand can help keep the energy up and pass the time before kickoff. Classic party games like ladder toss, cornhole, and cards are some great options that are also easily portable. Some friendly competition will keep things lively and festive while you wait for your team to hit the field. Remember to have a few prizes on hand for the winners, like inexpensive fan gear or candy bars.
Heavy-Duty Trash Bags
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of game day, but make sure you take some time to clean up your trash before kickoff. Bring along enough heavy-duty trash bags and separate recyclables from trash to decrease waste. Also, consider cleaning up throughout your festivities to avoid a last-minute rush to get things in order. Your cleanup process will go much more smoothly, and you and your guests will leave the tailgating spot as clean as you first found it.
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen, even when you’re having fun. When you bring together hot grills, sharp objects, and a crowd of excited fans, there’s a decent chance of a minor mishap at some point during the day. Keep your kit close by and filled with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, ointment, and burn cream in case of an accident. Remember, it’s always best to be prepared. A first aid kit doesn’t take up much room anyway, and it can be a lifesaver to have on hand when you need it.
Enjoy a Memorable Tailgating Season
Whether you’re hosting your tailgate party at the stadium, the park, or your own backyard, a little preparation goes a long way to make it a memorable day. By making sure you have everything you need on hand ahead of time, you and your guests will have a blast, regardless of how well your team ends up playing.
