Tips for Tailgate Season

Tis the season for tailgates! Socializing, food, and camaraderie is a perfect recipe for a great tailgate party. Celebrating outside with friends to cheer on your favorite team is such a fun experience! Horizon Mini Storage has tailgate party tips to make the most of your next sporting event.

Depending on the type of tailgating experience you enjoy will depend on what kind of vehicle you will want to have. RVs and pick up trucks are the most common as they provide a good amount of storage space and can support a crowd. Some of the more creative options we have seen are conversions of a school bus and even ambulances to make the ultimate game day space!

Prime Parking

When planning your tailgate parking is one of the first things to consider. Most stadiums offer a specific area for tailgaters to park and party. You may need to pay in advance or arrive early if your stadium is first come first serve. It may benefit you to rent two spaces rather than one so you can have ample seating and your vehicle or trailer.

Delegate Items

You want to be sure you have enough food, drinks, seating, etc but you do not want to end up with an abundance of one thing or the other. A good rule of thumb is to have a rough idea of how many guests will be at the tailgate and who is responsible for bringing what items. Allowing others to help by bringing their favorite items or previously agreed upon things is a great way to make sure everyone is excited.

Prepare for Weather

The weather is a fickle thing, always changing and sometimes with little or no notice. When you are gathering items and equipment for your tailgate it is a good idea to include items like ponchos, umbrellas, hats, sunscreen, and blankets. Hopefully this will make weather changes a bit easier to manage during your tailgate.

Shade

If you have enough room in your tailgate area, most stadiums will allow you to bring canopy tents. This will allow you, your guests, and the food some relief from the sun and possible rain. The best part is, you can purchase a tent with your team’s logo or team colors!

Seating

Make sure you and your guests are comfortable by having enough seating. It is much easier to eat, converse and enjoy your tailgate when you have places to sit down. Folding chairs are simple to transport to and from your events which makes them the ideal item for tailgates. You can always ask your guests to bring their own seats and just keep a few extra on hand in case.

Buffet Table

Having a table or two at your tailgate is something you should consider when packing or purchasing your equipment. This gives you somewhere to put and prepare food, drinks, and any additional items your guests may bring. When you plan in advance you can add a table cloth or centerpiece that is your team colors!

Listen to and Watch the Game

Depending on what kind of tailgate space you have, a TV may be a great addition to your party. You will need to have a power source, and a sturdy place to put your TV or a mount for your tailgate might do the trick. Another great tool is a bluetooth speaker. Give your tailgate a little music to keep everyone entertained. Once the game starts everyone will be able to hear from your speaker while being able to eat and chat.

Team Spirit

It is always fun to dress like a fan! There are a lot of DIY crafts for decorations and clothing on Pinterest for sporting events. Sport your team’s jersey and put on some facepaint for more effective cheering!

Have Games

Having cornhole, giant jenga, or even horseshoes is a great way to provide guests with things to do before, during, and after the game. You will want to make sure you have room at your tailgating spot for these items to be used. Don’t forget a few footballs to toss around!

Disposable Plates & Utensils

Put paper plates, plastic food trays, plastic utensils, and garbage bags on your shopping list. This will make cleanup much easier! You can even get themed items to use, and try separating your cutlery in mason jars. Do not forget paper towels and napkins, you will need them, we know it for sure!

Pack Before Game Day

We suggest you pack your vehicle before game day so you do not miss anything important. Any items that do not need to be kept cold are a good idea to put in the car asap. Some items to remember; grill, grilling tools, sharp knives for cutting food, a bottle opener, foil, trash bags, paper products, and charcoal if needed.

Game Day Grilling

If your home grill is too large to transport, consider purchasing a smaller portable grill for your truck bed or on the table at the tailgate space. Be aware of the type of grill you get so you know what other supplies you may need such as propane, charcoal, or electricity to plug into. Grilling is one of the easiest ways to cook tailgate foods, be sure you clean your grill before placing it back in storage so it stay in good condition.

Food Prep

To make cooking simpler at the game, prepare some foods ahead of time to bring with you. Make some side dishes, have a meat and cheese tray, or cut up some fruits and vegetables. Doing these things prior to the game will allow you to sit back and enjoy your tailgate party!

Finger Foods

For easy clean up and less utensils look no further than finger foods! Burgers, hotdogs, wings, and chips are all tailgate classics. You can even make a big football-themed grazing board for some themed snackage.

Cooler

Going hand in hand with food you will want to make sure your cooler is stocked with a variety of beverages. Make sure you keep enough ice to keep everything cold!

Mini Bar

Choose a themed tailgate drink and make a mini bar! You will not need a bunch of different ingredients with the option for beer and just one cocktail. Everyone can make their own beverage this way! Common options are bloody marys, and mimosas.

Where are you putting your tailgate equipment and supplies in between games and during off-season? Horizon Mini Storage has a variety of storage options with month-to-month contracts to help make your tailgate parties a success!