Are you a football, baseball, basketball, or soccer fan? How about NASCAR, wrestling, or tennis? Do they get you fired up and routing on your favorites? Of course, they do, that’s why we love sports. Do you tailgate/homegate before each match? If not, you should think about doing so because it is a lot of fun.
Each host is unique, and as such, tailgating essentials vary from one get-together to the next. What might be suitable for your tailgate may not be right for the person sitting next to you and vice-versa. We will be providing examples of tailgating essentials here, though. Hence, if you’re planning a shindig for March Madness, the Indianapolis 500, or something else, you have come to the right place.
Do you want to learn more? Yes, well, we are glad to hear that. Now, without further ado, let’s discuss some must-have tailgating essentials.
Here are 7 Tailgating Essentials You Need
1. Alcohol
Will the attendees of your event be 21 or over? If so, don’t forget the alcohol. Beer, Jello shots, and wine coolers could be just what the doctor ordered to make your tailgate a success. As the host, you should make it a point to keep everyone safe when alcohol is part of the mix. For instance, you could have designated drivers standing by to shuttle intoxicated people home. Then again, you could just call them an Uber too.
2. Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Not everyone 21 or over will want to get buzzed. Plus, those under the legal drinking age will need something to wet their whistles as well. Thus, it is a good idea to have waters, sports drinks, juices, and sodas on hand. These tailgating essentials allow guests to stay hydrated while waiting for big matches to start.
3. Food
People expect to get their eat on when attending tail/homegates. So, think outside the box and give your people what they want. If cost is a concern, why not chips and dips, or maybe chili cheese hot dogs? Those options are both yummy, and they won’t break the bank. Are you looking to go big or go home? Don’t worry; we have something for that too. Baby back ribs on the smoker or steaks on the pit could do the trick.
Italian food is an excellent choice as well. You can get pizza, pasta, and more delivered to the tailgate for folks to eat. On the plus side, when going this route, you don’t have to do a bunch of cooking or cleaning. Doesn’t that sound nice? Foods are definitely tailgating essentials, so whatever you do, make sure not to forget them. If you do, visitors might not be able to get away from your event fast enough.
4. Games
Every home/tailgate needs to have games. No, not pin the tail on the donkey, musical chairs, or anything like that. The things we speak of are like horseshoes, cornhole, or Jenga. These tailgating essentials give people something to do to pass the time before their events begin. If you get pitted against a rival, and your blood starts to boil, be sure to laugh it off, as nobody needs a fight on their hands.
5. Gear
Gear can mean lots of different things. Clothing, coolers, and grills fall into this category, but so do wagons, portable toilets, and tents. If you wish to create an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone to enjoy, you’re not going to want to forget gear. The pieces can sport the name and logo of your favorite teams or superstars. That is sure to make an impression on guests, and if that’s what you’re going for, it may even rile them up a bit.
6. High Chairs, Diapers, And Snacks
Will your children be attending? If so, and the event is away from home, don’t forget all of their stuff. High chairs, diapers, snacks, and toys will keep infants, toddlers, and kids occupied and content. Letting this or that slip your mind could be a recipe for disaster. Why? Because you might have to leave early and miss all the fun, that’s why. Think again if you don’t believe these kinds of items are tailgating essentials. Just ask any parent who tailgates about it.
7. Decorations
Last but not least, decorations are must-haves for home/tailgating. Streamers, tablecloths, and signs or pennants can create the look and feel you’re after. You may even want to hang up some balloons, posters, or flags. The possibilities can go on and on. If you need gear, activity ideas, or tips, we’ve got you covered.