Tailgating Must-Haves: Gear Up for the Ultimate Game Day Adventure

Tailgating is more than just a pre-game tradition; it’s a chance to connect with friends, family, and fellow fans over good food and great fun. To make the most of this experience, it's crucial to have the right equipment on hand. 

Taylor’s Do it Centers offers a wide selection of tailgating necessities that will ensure your event is a success. Our guide will help you prepare for your next tailgate to ensure it’s a success. 

Every great tailgate starts with great food, and a portable grill is a must-have for cooking up burgers, hot dogs, and wings. One of the best options available is the Weber Q1200 Portable Gas Grill. This grill is not only compact, making it easy to transport, but it also delivers reliable performance with its stainless steel burners and push-button ignition. It heats quickly, allowing you to grill your favorite foods with ease. 

With any portable grill you use, don’t forget to grab a propane cylinder before game day to ensure you are fueled up for the day.

Tailgates are incomplete without ice-cold beverages. The Yeti Tundra Cooler is ideal for keeping your drinks and food cold throughout the entire event. Known for its ultra-durable design and exceptional insulation, the Yeti can hold ice for days, ensuring your tailgate is well-stocked with cold drinks, snacks, and any perishables you need. Pair the cooler with Yeti’s reusable ice packs to ensure that your food stays fresh all day long.

You’ll need seating and surfaces for your tailgating spread, and Taylor’s offers a variety of folding chairs and portable tables perfect for the job. Whether you’re hosting a large group or a small gathering, these lightweight, easy-to-set-up options will provide comfortable seating and a stable surface for food and drinks. Chairs like the Rio Steel Quad Chair come with built-in cup holders and are both sturdy and comfortable.

Weather conditions can change quickly, especially during outdoor events, so a pop-up canopy is a smart investment. These canopies provide excellent protection from both the sun and rain, keeping your tailgate comfortable regardless of the weather. At Taylor’s, we offer many great choices for easy setup canopies that provide ample shade for your entire crew. A canopy also  ensures that your tailgate can continue even if Mother Nature has other plans.

Good grilling requires the right tools. The Big Green Egg BBQ Tool Set is an excellent choice for tailgaters, featuring sturdy, stainless steel spatulas and a handy silicone basting brush. These tools are designed to handle high heat and keep you in control of your cooking. For added convenience, consider bringing along a grill brush to clean your grill once the cooking is done.

Including a portable fire pit at your tailgate is a fantastic way to enhance the atmosphere and keep everyone warm as the game unfolds. Brands like Solo Stove and Blue Sky offer compact and efficient options that are easy to transport and set up. A fire pit creates a cozy gathering spot for friends and family, making it perfect for roasting marshmallows or enjoying hot drinks. 

Additionally, the warmth and light from the fire can extend your tailgating experience into the evening, allowing you to celebrate the game long after the sun goes down.

Make cleanup a breeze with disposable plates, utensils, and cups. These items are essential for serving food and drinks to your guests without the hassle of washing dishes afterward. Taylor's offers many disposable options to help ensure that your tailgate is convenient and easy.

Keep the energy high and the fun going with tailgate games like cornhole, giant wooden tumbling blocks, and wooden ladder golf. Taylor’s carries a variety of outdoor games that are perfect for passing the time between grilling and kickoff. Any of these outdoor games will add a competitive element to your event, guaranteed to keep everyone entertained before kickoff.

Set the mood with a portable Bluetooth speaker from brands like Ukiah. Music is an essential part of the tailgate experience, and a quality speaker allows you to blast your team’s fight song or enjoy some background tunes while you eat, drink, and socialize.

By stocking up on these tailgating necessities from Taylor’s Do it Centers, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable pre-game party. Make sure to visit your neighborhood Taylor’s to pick up everything you need!