Be Prepared for Parking Lot Parties with These Tailgating Essentials

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

For many sports fans, tailgating is a holy ritual before any game, whether that be on a field or track. It's the perfect way to pregame with friends, hang out with family, or party with other friends. Though before you go, meticulous planning and well-stocked gear can turn an ordinary Saturday into one for the ages. Even if you're going to join someone else's tailgate, it's an unspoken rule to bring something to share. We're here to help you make that a reality.

Whether you need a place to put a TV, something to power that TV, or even the snacks to compliment, we've compiled a list of essential tailgating gear that'll make game day a winner. So make sure your coolers are stocked, the nachos are hot, and you're fully geared up to party before the big game.

CF45 Portable 12V Car Fridge Freezer

If you need to keep things seriously cold or frozen, it doesn't get much cooler than this. While its capacity isn't as large as something like the great big Snow Peak cooler (below), it's the perfect unit for keeping meats and other perishables. This particular model was actually tested by the Gear Team, and they found it to be the Best Budget option of the bunch.

Trunk Organizer With Built-In Cooler Bag

If you’re out of room in the cooler but you still have more items to pack, this trunk organizer comes in clutch. It keeps your snacks cool and easy to find with the insulated cooler bag and removable dividers. It also has straps and a non-skid bottom to ensure everything stays in its place while driving, along with handles for carrying it to the mile-long table of tailgating goodies.

All-in-One Tailgating Table

Just look at this thing— it's screaming party, at least as much as a foldable table can. It's got cupholders, a spot for a bowl of whatever you like, and an insulated cooler. At under 5 pounds, it's also lightweight and foldable. Throw it in your truck, have a party anywhere, done.

Air Canopy

The Soli Air Canopy is a remarkable twist on the conventional easy-up canopy. Instead of relying on metal frames, it harnesses the power of air to support its structure. It takes two minutes to pop up and only one person.

Seriously, this thing is nothing short of amazing. I can vouch for it personally— I spent a weekend lounging under one of these at a festival, and this was the envy of the crowd.

10'x10' Pop Up Canopy

Having shade during your tailgate can be a game-changer, especially on a scorching sunny day. The Crown Shades is part of the popular trend of easy-up sun canopies. However, what sets Crown Shades apart is its user-friendly design that can be set up by a single person with a single button locking it securely into place at the center. Of course, as with anything, having a helping hand makes life easier.

Xtreme 3

Certainly, music is a key ingredient to any social gathering. JBL has dominated the speaker market in recent years, and it's easy to see why. The quality of these speakers is exceptional. It delivers powerful sound that competes with the best in the business, so feel free to crank up your favorite tunes at the tailgate, even if it is your team's fight song on repeat.

Portable Charger

If you're streaming games all day, chances are you'll need to charge up once or twice. This portable charger from Baseus will keep your devices full of juice, and the 5 charging ports mean you can even share with others. It comes with smart charging too, so it won't fry your phone, and can be refilled in just 2.5 hours.

Hard Rock Cooler 40QT

Coolers are a must-have on tailgating days because nobody wants to sip lukewarm drinks throughout the afternoon. The Snow Peak Hard Rock Cooler, made and designed in the USA, provides extended cooling performance. Like many roto-molded coolers, it features a bear claw latch for security and pressure-injected insulation. Snow Peak rotomolded coolers come with a lifetime guarantee. If you're considering long-term use, it's a worthwhile investment!

Yard Pong Game Set

No tailgate party is complete without b– I mean, CUP pong. This Jumbo Pong set takes yard games to another level. The cups and balls are made from durable, quality materials, and the kit even comes with a carrying case and air pump. Just fill the buckets with water and figure out who throws first. Fun for all ages!

Aero Inflatable Chair

Transform your tailgating setup into a luxurious lounge using the Inflatable Aero Chairs. These chairs are a significant upgrade from the standard folding ones, offering a fun and stylish seating option for relaxing after indulging in your 10 a.m. chili, cornbread, and beer. Bote offers various types of inflatable furniture, including tables, Adirondack chairs, and couches, to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere on the blacktop. There's even an inflatable cornhole set.

Detroit Lions Double Sided House Flag

All the real sports fans have gear repping their team, which is essential for a tailgate. WinCraft offers quality, double-sided banners to hang and let everyone who can’t read your shirt know who you’re cheering for. (Even if you aren’t a Lions fan, how cool would it be to have a flag of this season’s Super Bowl champions already?)

Recliner Stadium Seat

If you're the tailgater who goes into the stadium, you'll surely appreciate a more comfortable seating option than bleachers. The Stadium Boss Seat Recliner offers a cushioned place to sit, with armrests and a drink holder. Remember, tailgating and the game can take a toll on your body, so it's important to find relief wherever possible.

Can Cooler Sleeves

Nothing is worse than taking a sip of a warm beverage that should be ice cold. TahoeBay has you covered. Their drink coolers will keep your cans as chilly as those late-autumn games. They are available in a wide variety of color options as well, so you’ll be able to find the right shade to match your team.

Cooking Set

Once you've nailed down a nice grill, you'll need a nice set of utensils. There is no need to break the bank here, this kit includes pretty much all you could need, down to a cutting board, seasoning shakers, and gloves.

Fly Fans for Tables

When tailgating, you want to see people swatting passes, not flies. Insert the Fly Fan. These neat little contraptions shoo away pesky insects and protect your food by creating a force field with air. They won’t deter you from reaching for more potato salad though, as the fan blades are soft and will stop spinning on contact. They are battery operated, and will keep your meals fly-free all day.

Triton 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove

A grill is great and all, but you can really elevate your tailgate experience with a portable stove. It's much easier to prepare certain foods over a burner rather than on the grill, in fact, you could cook an entire meal over this thing. It's affordable, portable, and convenient. The one downside is that the propane cylinder is sold separately.

Hooded Rain Poncho

While the hooded poncho may not be the most glamorous of tailgating accessories, they are arguably the most essential, especially when sudden heavy rain hits. Sometimes, the most valuable gear is all about being well-prepared. Additionally sporting this model will give you a distinct Severus Snape look, which is sure to earn you major tailgating points.

Fire TV 32" HD smart TV

The 32-inch Fire TV is an awesome set for the purpose of tailgating. It's under 10 pounds so it's easy to set up and take down, plus it's got all of the apps you could need built right in. You can also opt for the 40-inch version, with a small weight penalty.

Portable TV Tripod Stand

Tickets too expensive? Fair enough. You can still watch the game from the parking lot using this Perlesmith TV Tripod. It has a lockable base and a safety pin to secure the TV, providing some reassurance around children and pets. It’s also height adjustable and can swivel 360 degrees for the perfect viewing angle and no annoying sun glare.

Spandex Table Covers

Let’s face it– those white plastic tables are a bit ugly. Just hide ‘em with one of these nifty table covers. They’re made of a stretchy and durable material that’s stain-resistant and machine washable. They also come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you should be able to find some that match your team.

Cookware Mess Kit

This kit is all you need to whip up some quick grub. The whole kit fits together and comes with a carrying bag so you can bring it along wherever your tailgating adventures may take you. You can get the pots in a few different sizes, so the only limit to your culinary antics will be your own imaginativeness.

Collapsible Garbage Can

Sure there might not be an abundance of garbage bins in that parking lot, but that’s no excuse for littering. Just bring one of these portable trash cans. The collapsibility makes it easy to transport, and it can fit 44-gallon bags, which will surely be able to collect all those returnables. At the end of the day, we’re all rooting for the environment.

Considerations

Like anything, tailgating can become very un-fun quickly if safety goes out the window. Here are a few quick tips to ensure your tailgating party can avoid becoming dangerous.

• Alcohol is very popular, and sometimes the drink of choice, but it is essential to not drink and drive. Always have a designated driver ready to go.

• When transporting propane for a grill or heater, always store and travel with the tank in an upright, vertical position. A milk crate or tank stabilizer can help ensure this. Additionally, it might be smart to check your route ahead of time for laws against traveling with propane through tunnels or over bridges.

• Make sure your devices and power stations are all charged up and ready to go, as low batteries on anything will kill a party quick. Try to avoid using your vehicle's battery to power anything, and instead use dedicated power banks or stations. If that isn't an option, try bringing a spare car battery just in case.

• Make sure all of your trash goes into either a trash can or recycling bin—nobody likes a litterer. Bring trash bags with you if you're tailgating yourself, or if the tailgater you're joining doesn't have one, bring one.

• As gearheads, it's important to respect other people's rides during a tailgate party. Treat it like you would your own vehicle, and everyone will go home happy.

You Might Also Like

• Car and Driver’s 10 Best Cars through the Decades

• How to Buy or Lease a New Car

• Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!