Tailgating 101: 10 Essential Tailgating Tips To Get You Through Football Season

For some, tailgating before a football game is serious business. Some die-hard tailgaters put more time and effort into these pre-game festivities than they do cheering for their team come game time.

It can be a lot of fun walking around the parking lots before a pro or college football game to see all the fun, creative ways that fans have decided to prep for the game — including all the delicious football tailgating food.

Whether you’re a professional-level tailgater that commands everyone’s attention, or you’re just looking for a small set-up to share a fun memory with members of your own family, FIREDISC® has compiled a list of 10 football tailgating tips.

10. PACK THE ESSENTIALS — THEY CAN BE EASY TO FORGET

When we eat in the comfort of our own homes, it’s easy to take plates, napkins, silverware and other essentials for granted. Make sure you compile a comprehensive list of all the essentials so that you’re not left searching for a napkin or fork when you’re elbow deep in buffalo wings.

9. CREATE A RELAXING TAILGATING SITE

A good tailgate can last hours. Make sure you and your guests are comfortable with the right chairs or seating — fancy lawn chairs with cup holders are far better tailgating accessories than cold, metal folding chairs. Heck, some hardcore tailgaters even bring their motorhome, for supreme comfort.

8. MUSIC OR RADIO IS A MUST

No one wants to dine in awkward silence and party. Blasting a radio with pre-game coverage of the game, or some of your favorite music, is a great way to create a fun, festive atmosphere.

7. DON’T FORGET ICE

This is an often-forgotten staple for a tailgate. While many football fans throughout the country stage their tailgates in cold temperatures, there are other parts of the country where it’s still hot. You don’t want your food to spoil or your beverages to get warm. Load up on ice and grab your trusty cooler.

6. REPRESENT YOUR TEAM THE RIGHT WAY

The whole point in tailgating (other than noshing on football tailgating food) is to show support for your favorite team. To let everyone know who you’re cheering for, make sure to sport your team’s colors and deck out the tailgate site in a way that shows your undying devotion (i.e. flags, banners, etc.)

5. BRING THE BIG SCREEN!

We’ll admit — this is a veteran move. But, some devoted tailgaters with the right equipment will bring out their television sets to be placed in a vehicle or under a canopy. You can watch all the pre-game action, or even the actual game, comfortably from your spot.

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4. BE READY TO COOK WITH YOUR TRUST GRILL OR COOKER

Some food items can be prepared ahead of time, while others must be fixed right at the tailgating site. From slow cookers to a lightweight, portable grill or cooker, it’s important that you have the tools and equipment to prepare your meal the right way. Come armed with your best tailgating BBQ grilling ideas.

3. BEVERAGES ARE ALMOST AS IMPORTANT AS THE FOOD!

Let’s be honest, adult beverages are a must-have at a tailgate. But, you don’t have to stick to the cheapest beer you can find. Craft beer, single-serve wines and cocktails are also a great way to get the party going. Just make sure to pack plenty of water and soft drinks for underage attendees.

2. GET YOUR GAME ON … BEFORE THE GAME

Bring some outdoor games to add fun and competition to the gathering. Whether it’s a competitive game of corn hole or just tossing around a football, it gives you and your guests something to do while you eat and socialize.

1. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE FOOD!

At the end of the day, a tailgate needs to have amazing food to be truly successful. The best part is, you can be as fancy or practical as you want. Grilled meat (i.e. hot dogs, burgers, brats, steaks, ribs, etc.) are a time-honored favorite, but if you’re a culinary rock star, you can add a unique touch to your tailgate.

Use your FIREDISC® Portable Propane Cooker to get you through the football season. Get your friends and family wanting to keep coming back to your tailgate for your delicious tailgating food!