Top 10 Tailgate Tips and Printable Checklist

Fall is my favorite season and before the leaves start to fall it’s all about tailgating and touchdowns!  Whether you are new to tailgating or you are a seasoned pro I’m sharing everything you’ll need in your toolkit to tailgate at a moment’s notice!  With my top 10 tailgate tips, perfect printable checklist, recipes and party essentials galore you are sure to score a touchdown this football season. 

This time of year we love to take the celebration outside and head to the stadium to tailgate with friends.  There is something so exciting about being at the stadium with everyone else ready to cheer on their favorite team.  The energy and excitement at the stadium are hard to beat and it definitely makes game day more fun!

When it comes to entertaining, especially entertaining outdoors at the stadium, Chinet® brand products are hands down my secret to a successful, stress-free tailgate, and I’ve teamed up with them to share my top game day party tips with you! Before you pack up the cooler and the grill to head to the stadium be sure to check out my top tips for an unforgettable tailgating party this football season.

Top 10 Tailgate Tips

Tip 1: Plan Ahead

Being prepared will make all the difference in your game day celebration.  Download the Tailgate Checklist to make sure you have all the essentials for a successful tailgate party.

Tip 2: Set the Stage

Even though you’ll be outside at the stadium it’s still important to create a fun and inviting atmosphere.  Be sure to bring along some simple decorations like banners, colorful blankets, and football-themed decor.  Not only will this help the space feel more festive, but it also is a great way to make sure your tailgate zone stands out and is easy to find.

Tip 3: Think Quick and Convenient

You want to be part of the action, not behind the scenes on game day so be sure to plan a simple menu and prep ahead if you can.  Plan travel-friendly recipes, and consider quick and easy meats that can be grilled at the game.

I also love using products like the Chinet® Cut Crystal® cups in fun and unexpected ways, like these football veggie cups, to prep snacks ahead of time.  Simply cut up all the veggies, put them in the cups and store them in your cooler for game day.

Tip 4: Feed the Fans

Like every good meal or party, a standout tailgate party should have plenty of delicious food.  Be sure to have plenty of appetizers, snacks a main dish and dessert.  Set the food out in stages and keep lots of Chinet® brand products handy and within reach, so guest can fill up their plates, refill their drinks and enjoy the party.

Pack all of your food in zippered bags and plastic containers with lids to keep leftovers.  Also, be sure to bring lots of ice to keep food and drinks cold.

Tip 5: Tailgate Toolbox

When it comes to entertaining one of the key essentials you’ll find in my tailgate toolkit are Chinet products. The Chinet brand makes serving and cleanup easy, so you can spend more time cheering for your favorite team with friends.  I like to pack a crate full of Chinet® Classic White™ products so I have plenty on hand.  Also, be sure to pack other essentials like grill tools, bottle and can openers, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, permanent markers, and duct tape.

Tip 6: Stand Out

In a sea of cars parked at the stadium, you want to make sure your tailgate stands out.  Help your friends find you by flying a team banner or balloons from your tailgate spot.  

Tip 7: Games & Activities

Tailgating is usually an all-day affair.  Don’t forget to pack games and activities to keep everyone entertained and having fun.  One of our favorite games to bring to the tailgate is Cornhole.  You can customize your own cornhole boards to make them stand out.

Tip 8: Be a Good Tailgate Neighbor

Remember everyone is there to have a good time.  It’s important to respect everybody, regardless of team affiliation.  Offer to share snacks and invite your tailgate neighbors over for a friendly competition of cornhole.

Tip 9: Break It Down

When it comes time to head into the stadium for the game it’s important to break things down at your tailgate site.  Apply the camping rule that says you should take out everything you bring in. Chinet® products make cleanup easy – just toss when done!  Bring plenty of trash bags and containers to pack things up and make sure you pick up your area and leave it better than when you came.

Tip 10: Skip the Traffic and Plan an After Party

Instead of fighting traffic jams when the game is over, plan to linger in the parking lot for an hour or so with a tailgate after party.  Rehash the highlights of the game over drinks, snacks or dessert.

In the end, the most important thing about tailgating is to have fun, after all, it’s a party!  Whether you are headed to the stadium to tailgate or planning a game day watch party at home remember that the Chinet brand is here to make entertaining easier. So pack the cooler, grab your tailgate toolkit and enjoy the pre-game fun!