When you hear the “tailgate,” what do you think of? A grill, maybe a couple of coolers, a game of bags if you’re lucky. The fact is, football season is here, and being a fan requires dedication and passion. For game day, that starts with your tailgate, and a successful tailgate depends on planning and preparation.
The worst thing that can happen at a tailgate is for something not to work, or to forget something crucial. To help avoid those situations, it’s crucial to plan and prep the night before. Here are some things to consider doing on the eve of game day:
- Shape and pack up burger patties between sheets of wax paper in an aluminum foil pan
- Slice and pack burger toppings in a foil pan
- Label coolers so everyone knows where the right drinks are
- Pack twice the essentials (charcoal/gas, ice, tongs, etc.)
- Pack as much of your cooler as possible, being sure to pack things tightly and filling crevices with ice
- Ensure you have a first aid kit with bandages, gauze, aspirin and burn cream
- Pack a large plastic tub for all your dirty dishes
Game day tips
We’re also offering up some hacks that may be borderline genius, though experienced tailgaters may see them as commonplace things to do:
- Have a recognizable flag or big helium balloon on a long string to help others find you
- Consider using an empty laundry detergent dispenser as a hand-washing station
- Hang paper towels from tent struts using a bungee cord
- For easier food management, try using recipes that allow you to combine food, such as breakfast burritos, walking tacos or soup in a bread bowl
- Consider wind direction and strength when setting up your grill; more wind means your charcoal will burn faster, so point the front leg of your grill toward the wind to limit the air coming through the bottom vents.
Most importantly, introduce yourselves to others (yes, even if they cheer for the opposing team) and have a great time! Tailgating is meant to be a fun and enjoyable build-up to the game and atmosphere during it.
If you have any other tailgating tips, be sure to share them on the accompanying Facebook post for this blog.
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