Parking Lot Party
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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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