Tailgating is a lot of fun—when you have the right gear. Prep for the pre-game party by making sure you have the following necessities for an entertaining and comfortable gathering.
Everything You Need for Tailgating Season This Year
Changing leaves and a brisk chill in the air are signs that it’s that time of the year—tailgating season! To ensure you’ve got the best party in the parking lot, make sure you pack these tailgating essentials.
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Parking Lot Party
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Grill On The Go
It’s not much of a tailgate without some burgers and dogs. This Weber propane grill works just as well the one in your backyard, but it's a bit easier to transport. The perks of this portable cooker include an easy-to-start electronic ignition, fold-out side tables for prepping and serving, and spacious cooking surface. Available on Amazon; $209.
Related: Buyer's Guide: Portable Grills
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Set It Up
Rookie mistake: Bringing a tabletop grill but forgetting the table. If you're bringing a smaller size grill to the party, you'll need a place to set it, and this folding table make especially for grills will do the trick. Shelve at various heights mean you'll have a place to place raw or cooked foods, grilling supplies, utensils, and your drink. Available on Amazon; $83.96.
Related: 7 Camping Favorites Destined for Your Home
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Spread It Out
Sure, you could serve food right off the grill and directly onto the plate, but a folding table is a much more convenient place to display your tailgating spread—and possibly to smash if you’re at a Buffalo Bills game. This table folds in half, so it’ll take up less room in the trunk so you can fit all your other tailgating must-haves. Available on Amazon; $58.99.
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Take Cover
Early in the season the weather might be on your side, but for those cold, rainy—and possibly snowy—days you’ll want some cover. This 10x10-foot pop-up canopy tent will protect you from the elements so you can still enjoy the party. Available on Amazon; $69.99.
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Keep Cool
Even on the coldest days you don’t want to be sipping on a lukewarm beverage. Pack your drinks in the YETI Roadie to ensure they stay cold. Thanks to the three-inch thick PermaFrost Insulation and Fat Wall design, you won’t be sticking your hand into a cooler of melted ice. And the durable exterior and T-Rex Lid Latch will keep everything secure in case it slides around the backseat on your way to the game. Available on Amazon; $199.99.
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Hole In One
You’re amped for the game and you’re with good company, why not engage in a fun, competitive game of corn hole? This set is perfect for traveling, lightweight and easy to store in the trunk. Available on Amazon; $102.15.
Related: 10 Genius Ways to Make Your Backyard a Blast
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Take a Seat
The Kelysus Original Canopy Chair will shield you from strong rays, rain, or snow to help you kick back, relax with a burger at the tailgate. If you don’t need the overhead protection, you can easily lower the canopy. Available on Amazon; $49.99.
Related: The Perfect Patio: 10 Buys to Warm Up to Off-Season Outdoor Living
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Grill Gear
Just because you’re grilling on the go doesn’t mean you should have to forgo your usual cooking tools. The 19-piece Kacebela Stainless Steel set comes with all your must-haves and then some. Packed in a convenient carrying case, you can keep these in the car especially for tailgating. Available on Amazon; $25.99.
Related: 17 New Essentials for Your Best Ever BBQ
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Turn It Up
Whether you want to stream the pre-game analysis or just want to play some tunes, you’ll want a bluetooth speaker to do the job. The Bose Soundlink Color Bluetooth Speaker II packs a loud punch in its small dimensions. Durable, water-resistant, and with an eight-hour battery life, it can handle even the most extreme tailgates. Available on Amazon; $129.
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Pop Off
You don’t want to be at a tailgate only to realize no one has a bottle opener. The OXO Steel Bottle Opener works on pop-off bottle tops and twist-off caps. No bells or whistles needed for this simple tool. Available on Amazon; $9.99.
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Pack It Up
A well-equipped tailgate requires packing a lot of little essentials. Keep your trunk tidy—and maximize your space—with this trunk organizer. It has three sections for your supplies, plus a removable, insulated thermal shield. Available from Bed, Bath & Beyond; $14.99.
Related: 10 Things You Need to Keep Your Car Clean
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