Creating The Perfect Tailgate Kit

The back of a truck's tailgate

The fall season is famous for many things, which include tailgating. Whether attending a college or professional football game, this is a great way to get the day started. However, to make the most out of this event, be sure to set your car up correctly. These tips will help you achieve that goal.

Trailer Hitch and Cargo Rack

Although there’s a small investment to do these two things, it’s worth it. Especially if you drive a smaller vehicle, you need a way to keep everything organized. Not only that, but these accessories will make it easier for people to get to the food and they’ll enhance overall safety. With a trailer hitch and cargo rack, you’ll have ample space for all the items needed on game day.

Cargo Mats and Seat Covers

When tailgating, you don’t want damaged carpeting or seats. After all, tailgating is all about food and beverages. So, there’s a high risk of something getting spilled. This is especially true if you have younger guests. The good news, you can find quality mats and covers without spending a lot of money.

Quality Speakers

It’s not real tailgating unless you play music. For this, you’ll need a good auxiliary speaker. Depending on preference, you can find speakers that connect to those in your car or directly to your smartphone. Remember, along with the noise coming from your group, you’ll need a way to drown out all the noise from other tailgaters. This is a great way to do that.

Grilling Accessories

First, you’ll need a stable portable grill. As for the size, that’ll depend on how many people come to your tailgating party. Second, you’ll need all the necessary accessories. Those include oven mittens, tongs, metal spatula, and aluminum dishes. Also, don’t forget to bring sturdy paper plates, as well as plastic spoons, forks, and knives.

Comfortable Seating

After everyone fills their plates with food, they’ll need a comfortable place to sit. To save space inside your vehicle, choose something that folds easily. You might also get portable chairs with cupholders. That way, there’s no concern about spilled drinks.

USB Power Bank

If you plan to use your car speakers to play music, you’ll probably want to get a power bank. It’ll help keep the party going without draining the battery.

Awnings and Umbrellas

In the fall, you never know what type of weather you’ll face on game day. Regardless of the forecast, plan for anything. To shield the sun and protect from rain and snow, awnings work great. For a smaller group, you could have umbrellas on hand. These will keep everyone comfortable while also protecting all the food you’ve made.

Container for Beverages

For certain beverages, you want to keep them cold. That’s where a cooler comes in handy. On the other hand, if you plan to serve coffee, hot apple cider, or hot chocolate, use a large crockpot.

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Clean Up

As a responsible tailgater, you’ll need garbage bags so that no trash gets left behind. This will make the stadium’s cleanup crew happy.

If your current car can accommodate tailgating, great. If not, stop by Red McCombs Hyundai Northwest in San Antonio, Texas, for an upgrade.

Disclaimer: The stock image is being used for illustrative purposes only, and it is not a direct representation of the business, recipe, or activity listed. Any person depicted in the stock image is a model.