Tailgating is more than just a pre-game ritual; it's a celebration, a social gathering, and for many, a tradition. Whether you're at a football game, concert, or any other outdoor event, tailgating brings people together to enjoy good food, great company, and the thrill of anticipation for the event to come. But to truly make the most of your tailgating experience, you need the right gear. With a well-planned setup, you can create a space that's not only functional for games and cooking but also fun and inviting for other tailgates to come and visit. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential tailgate gear that will elevate your game, making you the MVP of your next parking lot party. 

Setting Up Your Tailgating Space

Portable Canopy or Tent

A tailgate without shelter is like a football game without helmets. The unpredictable nature of the outdoors means you'll need a reliable canopy or tent to provide shade from the sun or protection from sudden rain showers overhead. When selecting a canopy, look for one that's durable and adjustable for use in variety of situations and terrains (not all parking lots are paved). Stability is key, especially in windy conditions, so choose a model with reinforced corners and sturdy stakes.

For an all-weather solution, consider the Moon Unit Shelter or ArcHaus Shelter from Let's Go Aero. These shelters are designed to withstand the elements, offering superior sun and weather coverage while being easy to transport and set up. Their modular design allows for use attached to the vehicle or stand alone with removable doors for use at any event. 

Decorate for your Team

Tailgating is all about supporting your team (or event). More than just sporting your favorite jersey, tailgates are the best place to fly flags, hang banners, and show offer all your fandom with pride. Decorating your area not only shows off your dedication as a fan but it also makes your space more inviting for other fans to come and join you.

Folding Chairs and Tables

Comfort is crucial when tailgating and not everyone can fit in the back of your SUV, and that means having the right seating and tables. For chairs, you can be safe breaking out your trusty folding camping chair but we recommend bring extras for anyone that might want to come visit you and your friends. If you need a table, opt for space-saving designs that are easy to set up and pack away.

Compact, folding tables that can double as a serving station or a game surface are ideal. Consider adding a GearDeck cargo carrier or GearCage Cargo Carrier to your setup. Not only does it help transport your gear, but it also functions as a convenient table for grills, drinks, and more, maximizing your space and functionality.

Cooking and Grilling Essentials

Portable Grill

No tailgate is complete without a grill. When choosing the right grill, consider the size and fuel type. A lightweight, portable grill that's easy to transport is essential. Whether you prefer gas, charcoal, or electric, the grill should be powerful enough to cook for a crowd yet compact enough to fit in your vehicle.

Safety is paramount when grilling in a crowded area. Make sure your grill is stable on uneven surfaces and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. A cargo carrier like the GearCage mentioned earlier, can serve as a stable platform for your grill, keeping it off the ground and away from flammable materials. Always confirm with local ordinances before using a charcoal grill as some regions restrict the use of charcoal during high fire danger times.

Coolers and Food Storage

Keeping your food and drinks cold is another tailgating must. Look for coolers with thick insulation, sturdy handles, and wheels for easy transportation. Consider bringing two coolers: one for drinks and another for food to avoid cross-contamination. For organizing your food and beverages, stackable storage bins or insulated bags in a cargo carrier can be a game-changer, making it easy to grab what you need without digging through a mess.

Entertainment and Games

Tailgate Games

Entertainment is a key component of any successful tailgate. Popular games like cornhole, ladder toss, and frisbee are easy to transport and set up, keeping the energy high as you wait for the main event. 

Portable Speaker System

Music sets the mood for your tailgate, so a portable speaker system with good battery life and decent sound quality is essential. You can use your vehicle but you run the risk of killing your battery or wasting fuel. Look for speakers that are easy to connect to your smartphone and have a long-lasting battery to keep the party going. Waterproof and shockproof models are ideal for outdoor environments, ensuring your speaker can withstand the elements in case of a sudden downpour.

Comfort and Convenience Items

Portable Restrooms and Hand Sanitizers

Convenience and cleanliness are crucial for a successful tailgate. While some venues may provide restrooms, it’s always wise to have a backup plan. Paper towels, hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes are must-haves for keeping hands clean, especially before and after eating. Trash bags to pack out trash in case trash cans are not available (or full) can help ensures you represent your team best by not leaving trash behind when you are done.

If you’re managing the planning of a tailgate event especially a large one, be sure to coordinate use of local restrooms and consider renting portable restrooms is necessary. This ensures your guests are comfortable and your tailgate area remains clean. Have trash bins set out for guest to throw away their trash.

Weather Gear

If you already planned ahead and have a robust shelter like the Moon Unit that we mentioned above you already pretty well covered in the event of rain or blistering heat. But some other gear that may help to bring along is tarps, blankets, and portable heaters to keep yourself and your guests comfortable. For clothing, layering is the way to go—start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating layers, and top off with a waterproof jacket. In hot conditions, consider portable fans, cooling towels, and plenty of sunscreen to keep cool and protected.

Safety and First Aid

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for handling minor injuries or emergencies is just a great idea to keep in your car in general but especially if you are going to event. Include basics like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and tweezers.

jIf you are an event organizer, it's also a good idea to have supplies for more serious injuries, such as gauze pads, medical tape, and a CPR mask. For large events, you can even hire on site EMTs and security to be ready to help anyone in need. 

Tailgate Safety Tips

Safety should always be a priority when tailgating. This includes responsible drinking, careful grilling, and keeping your area clean. Make sure your grill is securely positioned and never leave it unattended. Designate a driver if alcohol is involved and encourage guests to drink responsibly.

Properly dispose of trash and recyclables to keep your area safe and tidy. A cargo carrier like the GearDeck can also double as a storage bin for trash bags and recyclables, keeping your vehicle space organized and clean

End Zone Essentials: Tailgate Like a Pro

Tailgating is all about creating memorable experiences, and having the right gear can make all the difference. From durable shelters and comfortable seating to portable grills and entertainment, each piece of equipment plays a role in ensuring your tailgate is a success. As you prepare for your next parking lot party, plan ahead and customize your gear list based on your needs and preferences.

Don't forget to explore Let's Go Aero's top-rated tailgating products, like the Moon Unit Shelter, and GearDeck cargo carriers, to enhance your tailgating experience. With the right setup, you'll be the MVP of every parking lot party.