Introduction

 

NFL pre-season starts tomorrow, and you know what that means—it’s almost time to get your tailgate on! You could do what you do every year: pull up to the game, grill a few burgers, and play a round of cornhole. Or, you could majorly level up in 2024 for an unforgettable tailgating experience. We’ve scoured the internet and found top tailgating tips from the pros to make this your best football season yet. Let’s get game-day ready!

Tip #1: Use Your Flagpole-To-Go to Mark Your Spot

 

Looking for a whole library of tailgating tips? Rod is your guy—he tailgates every Chiefs home game, and his tips help take your tailgate from fun to phenomenal. His most viral tip just so happens to be that he uses the Flagpole-To-Go at every tailgate to mark his spot. Rod uses a pool noodle in the video, but we recently released a protective foam bumper! Check it out to keep your flagpole safe and stylish. With your flag flying high, your friends will never lose track of your spot, and your team pride will be on full display!

Watch Rod's video

Tip #2: Preparation is Key

 

A good tailgate host thinks of everything, and Tailgating with Rod does just that—in this TikTok, Rod demonstrates how crucial preparation is for a successful tailgate. He brings a generator to run two crockpots and an air fryer, ensuring a variety of hot, delicious food options—before he heads to the game, he tests everything out to ensure that nothing goes wrong. He turns on this Champion generator, plugs all his appliances in, and makes sure his power is reliable! Imagine walking up to your tailgate and seeing a buffet of warm, savory dishes ready to go—now that’s how you score a touchdown before the game even starts!

Watch Rod's video

Tip #3: Bring Entertainment

 

Reddit user u/T-Mac901 on the college football forum suggests bringing games like cornhole, horseshoes, or Chipp-o. These games are not only great for getting the competitive juices flowing before the game, and turning them into drinking games can add an extra layer of fun. After all, nothing says pre-game excitement like a little friendly competition. Just be prepared for some new friends to join in the fun when they see how awesome your tailgate setup is!

Tip #4: Plan a Menu Theme

 

According to Menshealth.com, taking your food up a notch this year can really make your tailgate stand out. Consider a brunch theme with mimosas and breakfast burritos or a build-your-own-burger bar with all the fixings. Imagine the envy of other tailgaters as they see your gourmet setup. A themed menu not only adds flair but also ensures there’s something delicious for everyone.

Tip #5: Be Mindful About the Grill

 

Thebash.com advises that the moment you find your spot, the first thing you should do is heat up your grill. Charcoal can take a while to get hot, so get it going ASAP so you have time to cook, eat, and let it cool down before the game starts. For cleanup, @allthingsbbq on YouTube recommends having an “exit strategy” by placing hot charcoal in a metal bucket with ice so it cools off during the game. Nobody wants to deal with hot coals when it's time to head into the stadium, so plan ahead and keep it safe and simple.

Tip #6: Bring a Solid Speaker

 

 

In this tailgating tips segment by the TODAY show, they recommend a reliable, portable speaker to get the tunes going. Their top choice? Soundcore by Anker. It  packs a “serious punch” with its super loud, portable, and completely waterproof design. Nothing amps up the atmosphere like some killer tunes blasting from a quality speaker. Whether you’re hyping up the crowd or having a dance-off, a great sound system is essential.

Tip #7: Pack a Cooler the Right Way

 

Food is the heart of any tailgate, so make sure to pack everything the right way! This Buzzfeed article gives some great tailgating tips, and a diagram on how to pack a cooler. They recommend adding cans and bottles to the bottom, placing any bagged items on top of layers of ice, and adding a layer of ice over everything to ensure ice falls between any crevices. This ensures your drinks and food stay cold all day. A well-organized cooler means cold beverages on demand and happy tailgaters all around.

Tip #8: Use a Metal Cupcake Pan to Carry Drinks

Corhnole Worldwide recommends using a simple store-bought metal cupcake pan to carry cups while serving your guests drinks. It’s an easy and efficient way to keep things organized and avoid spills. Plus, it’s a nifty hack that’ll have your friends asking, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Elevate your drink service game with this clever, practical solution.

Tip #9: Make a Photo Booth

 

Another great idea from Cornhole Worldwide: Create a photo booth to capture those precious game-day memories. Use a sheet to make the backdrop (hang it off the side of a truck or van or from the top of an open trunk of your vehicle). Decorate it with team banners, streamers, and balloons. Props can include fun team swag like foam fingers! Capture the spirit and excitement of the day with a DIY photo booth that’ll make your tailgate Instagram-worthy.

Tip #10: Make Good Use of Your Car

 

Tailgating pro Meredith Sinclair recommends the tail table—a table that hangs off the back of your trunk. It’s super easy to break down and even dishwasher safe for easy cleaning! Turn your car into a tailgate command center with this handy table. It’s perfect for food prep, serving, and even holding your drinks. 

Tip #11: Get a Tailgate Caddy

 

Meredith Sinclair also suggests a caddy to organize all your grilling tools and essentials. Keep your spatulas, oils, kebabs, and condiments all in one place for easy access and a more streamlined tailgating experience. Stay organized and save time rummaging through bags. With everything in one place, you’ll be the most efficient tailgater around.

Conclusion

 

These are some of the most unique tips we’ve come across to make this tailgating season iconic. Tailgating is more than just a prelude to the game; it's an essential part of the football experience that brings friends and fans together for fun and camaraderie. Whether you tailgate for one game or are in the lot for every match, these tips will help you step up your tailgating game. From marking your spot with the Flagpole-To-Go to keeping everyone entertained with games and music, these pro tips will ensure your tailgate is the talk of the season.

 

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