Tailgating Essentials You’ll Need for Game Day

The game before the game. The parking lot party. The pre-game hangout. No matter what you call tailgating, the checklist for it remains the same. Whether you’re planning a tailgating party or want to show up with the right gear in tow, you’ll want the following list of tailgating essentials for a successful game day experience.

Shop Outdoor Gear

If you’re catching the pre-game show before you head into the stadium or watching the action from your spot in the parking lot, you’ll need a TV that can handle the wear and tear that comes with being outside. Our suggestion? A smart television with an IP54 rating specifically designed for the outdoors and superior water resistance. That way, you can watch the game unfold no matter the weather. To get the clearest picture possible, we also suggest a TV that delivers 4K ultra-high-definition viewing with anti-glare and HDR10 technology that enables you to see vivid colors and a deep contrast.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to grab an outdoor soundbar, so you and your friends can hear all the calls loud and clear.

Your game day chair should be a pretty big deal. And no, we don’t mean your grandma’s aluminum webbed lawn chair from seven decades ago. Get something that will be stylish, durable and comfortable for multiple hours while you catch up with friends and cheer on your team. From padded quad camping chairs to oversized seating and gravity-defying rockers, the sky is the limit when choosing the perfect chair for you. 

Food. Isn’t that why your friends show up to tailgate with you? Don’t leave your favorite football fans disappointed! Get a portable grill or griddle, so you can serve your friends all their game day favorites.

To set up food, decorations and anything else you want in your tailgating space, you’re going to need a portable table that is lightweight and hassle-free to set up. You may also want to consider getting one that has adjustable legs, so you can get the perfect height without worrying about your table being too low for fur-friends to help themselves.

We’ve already mentioned the weather a few times, but hear us out. You’ll be thankful you planned ahead, especially if it’s blistering hot or raining just enough to ruin your outdoor fun. You can stay protected from the elements while still getting plenty of fresh air with a gazebo or popup canopy. You’ll want one that sets up in a few minutes, so you can get on with the rest of your tailgate party preparations.  
 
If it’s especially windy or sunny, you may also want to consider purchasing compatible wind panels for your gazebo. Simply attach them to each window of your gazebo for instant respite from the elements. 

Give your tailgating area a glow up with a patio mat or outdoor rug that will make your space cozy, stylish and clean. We suggest getting one that is made for the outdoors with mold and mildew-resistant fabric that can withstand rain, accidental drink spills and UV rays. In case your mat takes a beating during your tailgate parties, you’ll want one with durable material that is easy to clean with a power washer once you get home.  

If you get an ultra-comfy camping chair, chances are you’ll need an ottoman, too. They are incredibly versatile and can be used as a table, footrest or an extra seat for your little one. Plus, you can never have too many places for drink storage. Get one with integrated cupholders just in case you fill your chair cupholders with your phone, keys or extra snacks.

When you're packing for game day, space is everything. A hitch cargo carrier gives you the extra room you need to haul coolers, grills, chairs, and more — without cramming your vehicle full. Whether you're driving an SUV or towing with your RV, a sturdy cargo carrier mounted to your hitch lets you keep bulky gear secure and accessible. Look for models with weather-resistant construction and integrated tie-down points to keep everything in place while you’re en route to the stadium. Bonus: it frees up interior space for passengers and snacks.

Tailgating is all about maximizing space and convenience, and the CURT Pakka Cargo Caddie delivers both. This seat back organizer tray transforms unused space into a functional storage and serving station. With a 34" x 14" footprint, it’s perfect for holding snacks, drinks, utensils, or even a small prep area for your grill. The durable design keeps everything secure while you’re parked, and it folds away neatly when not in use. Whether you're organizing gear or serving up game-day treats, this caddie adds a layer of efficiency to your setup.

Speaking of coolers, you’re going to need one (or maybe two) to hold all your favorite beverages for the day. We suggest getting one with a large storage capacity that can keep your food and drinks cold for several hours. After all, no one likes to pop the top off what should be a cold one to get a swig of a hot beverage. Gross!  You might also consider a cooler that has a high-quality, water-resistant shell. You just never know if Mother Nature is going to cooperate with your game day plans. 

No tailgate is complete without a spread of crowd-pleasing eats and refreshing beverages. Think burgers, brats, wings, chips, dips, and finger foods that are easy to prep and serve. Don’t forget to pack a cooler with ice to keep drinks cold and perishables fresh.

Whether you're grilling on-site or bringing pre-made snacks, variety is key. Offer something for everyone, including vegetarian options and non-alcoholic drinks.

Pro tip: prep as much as you can the night before to make setup a breeze.

Tailgating is messy — in the best way. Be ready with plenty of disposable or reusable plates, napkins, and utensils to keep things clean and convenient. Opt for sturdy options that can handle heavier foods like ribs or loaded nachos. Napkins and paper towels are a must for spills and sticky fingers, and having extras on hand never hurts.

Nothing ruins a tailgate faster than a swarm of flies or mosquitoes. An electric flyswatter is a quick and satisfying way to zap pests on the spot, but pairing it with a reliable bug spray gives you a solid defense against bites and buzzing. Spray down your area before guests arrive and keep the flyswatter handy for any stragglers. Together, they help keep your food, drinks, and vibe uninterrupted.

Tailgating for a night game? Keep your friends safe from tripping over things they can’t see by illuminating your tailgating area with some lights. You can create a cozy atmosphere with string lights, brightly light the way with outdoor lanterns or do a combination of both. Any way you choose, your friends will be grateful when they can safely leave their chairs to grab an ice-cold beverage and another bite to eat.

Tailgating with your camper in tow? Here’s a bonus list of tailgate supplies that you should consider for a successful game day!

• Screen Defender: A black, powder coated aluminum screen that helps ensure your pet can’t damage or break through your entry screen door.
• Screen Shot®: An entry door upgrade that ensures your screen door closes by itself, every time, keeping unwanted pests out of your RV.
• Screen Assist™: An RV screen door push bar that helps you get out of your RV with ease and convenience while protecting your rig's screen door. 
• Solid Step® Premium RV Steps: An entryway upgrade that lets you get in and out of your RV with more stability, safety and ease than ever.
• All-Weather Floor Tray: A heavy-duty, durable tray that neatly catches any fallen dirt, water and debris from your Solid Step RV stairs when they’re stored inside your doorway. 
• Solera® RV Awning Screen Room: A three-panel, mesh screen room lets you block out the sun, wind, bugs and more.
• Propane Tank Sensor: An easy-to-install sensor that lets you monitor your RV’s propane levels right from your phone or smart device.
• Tire Linc® Tire Pressure & Temperature Monitoring System: An always-on system that lets you monitor your tire pressure and temperature from your smart device.
• Cargo Carrier: A convenient and secure way to add cargo space to your vehicle.