Tools for Tailgating 🏈

For those who know, there is an art to creating the perfect tailgate. There are many details that come together to achieve the right atmosphere and make it all work together, and it all starts with having the right tailgate tools. Thinking about what to bring to a tailgate can be overwhelming so we’ve broken it down into 4 areas of focus for your must-have tailgate supplies. Trust us; these tools will make your tailgating life much easier and less stressful so you can enjoy all your hard work.

1.  Tools for the Ultimate Setup

You’ll be hanging out here for a while before the game so make sure you’ve got plenty of chairs and things to keep people busy. A pop-up tent is always a good idea to be prepared for any weather, as well as chairs and tables that can be easily folded up and transported. Typical tailgates start hours before the game so why not start the competition early and play some games? Bring cornhole, pong, other drinking games, or a football to throw around. And don’t forget the basics like garbage bags, plates, napkins, cups, and plastic. It is always better to have too many tailgate accessories than not enough!

Pro Tip: Get a pop-up hamper from the dollar store to put the garbage bag in to make an easier trash station than having it lay on the ground.

2. Must-Have Tools for the Grill

If this is your first time tailgating, make sure you know the rules related to grilling for the venue. Not every type of grill may be allowed. If a gas grill is not allowed, a small charcoal grill or camping grill will do the trick. If you bring a charcoal grill, bring a metal bucket for a safe way to dispose of the hot coal. We suggest making a checklist to ensure you have all the grilling tools you’ll need. Definitely bring a spatula, tongs, foil, trays, an apron, oven mitts, matches or lighters, and of course, The Very Best Burgers (try Schweid & Sons The All American or The Signature Blend Sliders).

Don’t forget your seasonings, sides, and condiments too! Bring a six-pack bottle holder to make it easy to transfer your ketchup, mustard, and any other sauce you’ll need! Bring extra coolers for your Burgers, cheese, macaroni/potato salads, and anything else that needs to be refrigerated.

Pro tip: Freeze some water bottles to act as ice packs!

3.  Essential Drink Supplies

No tailgate is complete without plenty of drink options. Put out different coolers (clearly marked) for different types of beverages so everything is easily accessible. Water, soda, beer, and seltzers are only a few of the many drink options to bring to a tailgate. Attach a bottle opener to each cooler so it stays in place for anyone to grab. If you plan to make a specialty drink, have all the ingredients set out on a separate table or designate someone as the bartender. Don’t forget to bring solo cups for easy disposal at the end of the tailgate! Be mindful of garbage disposal rules at the venue you attend.

4.  The Tailgate Tools You Didn’t Know You Needed

You will be glad you had extras supplies on hand, including a portable Bluetooth speaker for tunes, sunblock (even a chill fall day can turn to sunburn on your face), containers with lids or Ziploc bags for leftovers, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and plenty of paper towels. Make another checklist to ensure that you have all of the tailgate accessories to make your day go smoothly. Bring an extra tub to easily store and transport dirty dishes. You can also bring extra water or cleaning supplies to help ease cleanup as your tailgate winds down. You don’t want to take too long and miss the start of the game!

The end goal? Enjoying an epic time with family and friends before the big game! Oh and if you’re looking for a great tailgate Burger recipe, try our Tailgate Zinger Burger 🍔 

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