Brian Wheeler

As we get closer to playoffs, it’s important to make sure your tailgating game is in top form. Here are our 10 tips to tailgate like a pro!

1. Research your site

Play by the rules and leave penalties to the opposing team. Different stadiums have different rules to abide by, so make sure you do your homework. Those who do not play by the rules may be removed from the site.

2. Arrive early, prep earlier
Refrigerate beverages and prepare food the day before. Don’t wait until the morning of to pack everything necessary for a successful tailgate. Also, arrive early. You don’t want to host your tailgate at the outskirts of the lot. Make your tailgate the center of attention by securing prime real estate.

3. Ice and more ice

Do you need anything? Yes, more ice. In fact, freeze your water bottles, too. They will keep the cooler cold and melt later to provide ice-cold water. Refreshing.

4. Label your coolers
Wait, which one has the beer? Leave the guessing game out of the pre-game! And don’t forget your Sharpie. Tailgating is more efficient when anything and everything is labeled.

5. Store food properly
Cold foods should be stored below 40 degrees, while hot foods should be stored above 140 degrees to avoid the growth of bacteria. Distinguish uncooked foods from cooked foods in separate, labeled coolers to avoid cross-contamination. Getting people sick will most likely end your career as a tailgating host. Again, ice is crucial, so bring more rather than less to keep your foods stored at low temperature.

6. Kabobs
Because you can kabob, well, anything – including fruit and veggies. And it takes time to fire up the grill. Don’t make the people wait! Then, of course, you can kabob meats for a real meal. Kabobs are easy to store and easy to enjoy. They also provide easy clean up.

7. Games
Don’t have cornhole or KanJam? Don’t go running to the store just yet. Polish horseshoes comes without a price tag. All you need are a couple stakes, a couple glass bottles and a Frisbee. That is, assuming you own a Frisbee, as every proper tailgater should. In any case, some form of entertainment is necessary. Ask guests in advance who can provide what. Your friend may have a cornhole set he or she has been dying to take out of the garage.

8. Keep it clean

Bring a large container for dirty dishes and plenty of trash bags. Hand sanitizer is a must-have. So are pre-moistened wipes (not just for the wings). Leaving a mess will probably leave you unwelcome at the next event.

9. Duct tape
Solves everything except a broken team. At some point in your tailgate, someone will need duct tape, and you will be appreciated for your foresight. Maybe that appreciation will result in a free beer.

10. Portable chargers
Ensure your Snapchat story doesn’t cut off before the halftime show. A functioning phone is essential. Portable chargers will keep your electronics juiced throughout the day. If you don’t already have one, it is more than worth the purchase price. Check Amazon.

11. Prepare to face all elements

Umbrellas and blankets are essentials. The only thing worse than your team being down is your team being down while you are wet and cold. Is there any doubt in your mind that it may rain or “might get chilly”? Then be safe, rather than sorry.

12. Let everyone know where the REAL party is
High-strung balloons can serve as an indicator in a sea of cars, grills and fans. Team balloons are cool, too, and very cheap. Check out balloons123.com.