The Pro Tips Tailgating Checklist

For the ultimate tailgating setup, consider packing a canopy tent to provide some coverage from the sun or less-than-perfect weather — but keep in mind that every venue has its own rules for popup tents, so be sure to review them to understand what’s permitted.

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A folding table — and accompanying tablecloth — can serve as your snack hub. Consider putting food in a place that’s out of the sun. You can also bring mesh food nets to place on top of food to help keep bugs away. Also, pack bungee cords, rope and duct tape to help safely secure everything to the ground.

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Foldable sports chairs are a must for keeping your guests comfortable. Choose easy to set up, space-saving designs that can easily be moved around your tailgate space.

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Bring a cooler packed with your favorite beverages on ice or ice packs. Be prepared with koozies, a bottle opener and corkscrew as well. If you also plan on enjoying food that needs to be kept cool, like hamburger meat or other gameday delights, pack an additional cooler for these items. And don’t forget to bring water.

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What’s a tailgate without a grill? You don’t need to haul the large family barbecue from the back patio, but a small, portable grill can turn up the heat and cook up some seasonal specialties. And don’t forget to pack the necessary grilling accessories such as propane or charcoal (dependent on your grill), lighter fluid, grilling tools, pot holders and a lighter.

Check with stadium rules and regulations on the type of fuel allowed on site. Some facilities might not allow open flame grills, meaning no charcoal or wood pellets.

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Plenty of napkins, paper towels, eating utensils, plates and cups are also tailgating necessities. Make sure that these items are disposable so that you can easily toss your waste away and not have to drive home with a bunch of dirty dishes.

Add further flair to the scene with some outdoor games  that are fun for all ages — whether it’s a family affair or an adult-only shindig. Cornhole, washer toss and ladder toss are all great additions. Keep it classic with a football, frisbee or deck of cards. Find even more of our best backyard games here.  Keep momentum up with a wireless speaker to play some tunes.

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When it comes closer to game time, remember to clean up your area before entering the stadium. Pack plastic containers and aluminum foil to preserve any leftover food or snacks and have a permanent marker ready to label each container. Keep hand sanitizer, wet wipes, paper towels and garbage bags on hand as well to help make cleanup a breeze.

And before you know it, it’s game time. When it’s time to head in, grab your stadium-approved bag. Each venue has its own rules and regulations so be sure to check that your bag meets the requirements. You might also be able to pack stadium seats and cushions, but keep in mind that some stadiums will not allow stadium seats with metal because they can scratch the seats or bleachers.  That’s why we offer cushions without steel parts in the backrest, like the DSG XL Padded Stadium Seat or the Logo Brands Stadium Seat.

Start each gameday off right with these must-have tailgating items.