There is a lot that comes to mind when you think of a football game. The cheers of the crowd, the halftime antics, and the smell of mud on the field are all experiences that many football fans cherish. However, true fans know where the real memories are made.
Hanging around in a crowded parking lot and waiting for food may not be everyone’s idea of fun, but tailgating has become a classic part of the football experience. It is here that you get to share your thoughts and opinions with other fans and start off a day of football the right way. Unfortunately, not every tailgater gets it right the first time. If you are thinking of joining the tailgating action next season, consider bringing the following equipment with you.
A Grill
Your choice of food for the tailgating party is crucial. Some individuals will prepare sandwiches or bring a selection of cold meats from the supermarket. While there is nothing inherently wrong with these choices, football fans prefer a warm meal before heading into the stadium. Therefore, your first investment in your new tailgating venture should be a grill.
You don’t have to go all out on the most expensive grill you can find. Any appliance will suffice so long as you can fold it away in the trunk of your car, or in the back of your truck. Football fans aren’t fussy so long as they can share something hot to eat before the game.
A Cooler
While your new grill has the food covered, you may also want to think about providing your fellow tailgaters with some beverages. Nothing goes down better than an ice-cold beer before the game, but stadium prices can be a bit lofty. That’s where you come in.
No one can turn down a beer fresh from the cooler, so make sure you come well-stocked. You can even pack in a few soft drinks and water for those who are driving.
Utensils
As you start your tailgating experience, one thing will become clear. A crowd of hungry football fans can be a messy group. Sure, a fan may be happy to take a burger from your grill and walk off, but they will rarely think about how they are going to eat the thing while walking around. That is why it is best to bring along all the necessary utensils.
All you really need is a set of paper plates and plastic forks to ensure that everyone is properly catered for. However, you will also want to bring along a plastic bag for all the trash. You don’t want to be hit with a lofty fine for littering in the parking lot.
Apparel
Conversing with your fellow football fans can be an enjoyable experience if you end up talking to fans of your team. Remember, there are going to be a lot of people filing out of the stadium and looking for food but not all of them will be supporters of your team. Help direct the people you want toward your grill by sporting your team’s apparel to avoid any confusion.
You don’t have to ignore fans of the opposing team, but things can get quite heated before the big game, especially when alcohol is involved. Try and stick to your side and your tailgating experience should continue without any unnecessary confrontations.
Foldaway Chairs
If you managed to get some good tickets for the game, then chances are that you are going to be on your feet most of the game. So, the last thing you want to do before the game is stand. Instead, make sure you bring along a few foldout chairs so you can sit and rest your feet out in the open while your food cooks on the grill.
Radio, Television, or Speaker
While tailgating before the game, you should bring a portable speaker for your favorite playlist. Or bring a TV or portable radio so you can listen in to the early games. This will allow you to stay up to date with other games. This is extra useful if you wager through the best online casino that accepts Paypal. Gambling can help elevate your enjoyment of the sport, after all.
These speakers are also great for after the game. Everyone enjoys a bit of music and helps ease the tension that can build after a hard-fought game. Just make sure you don’t play anything too loud so as not to disturb other tailgaters and you should be fine.
Portable Cart
While most tailgaters will eventually make their way around to your grill, it can take some time to build up some trust among regular fans. This is especially true if you are new to tailgating. Fortunately, there are ways to bring your food to other people.
Bring along a portable cart and some trays and you can quickly provide some food or beer across the parking lot. This allows you to continue to meet new people and get introduced to those who will be requiring your tailgating services in the future. You will also notice how easy it is to tidy up after yourselves with one of these carts, so make sure you always have one to hand even if you are an established tailgater.
Everyone will discover their own tips and tricks when they have been tailgating for a long time. However, the items listed above should put you in good stead moving forward.