t’s preseason football which means it’s almost time for tailgating season. So before you bust out the grills and barbeques why not catch a few quick tips to make your tailgate the best in the (parking) lot? Here are 12 tips to improve your tailgate and make the other team envious before you even walk into the stadium.
Freeze your water bottles
All those drinks have to stay cold right? Instead of buying bags of ice and having them melt halfway through the tailgate, freeze some water bottles. That way, you can have your ice and drink it too!
Pack the night before
To save time and be prepared on tailgate day, pack all the essentials into your car the night before. Make sure to organize it all for easy unpacking and cooking as well. That way you can leave early and find the best parking spot.
Six packs for condiments
Everyone is gonna want condiments on their hot dogs and burgers so why not give them options and make it an easy clean up? Use empty six packs or carton trays to hold all your topping needs.
Decorate your Spot
To help your friends find your tailgate or to help make those new friends make sure to decorate your space. Balloons are always a good choice or spice it up with some flags. Make your tailgate the one with the most Shark pride.
Easy Trash Cans
Most parking lots are fully stocked with trash cans on game day but they fill up quick or your space is far from the nearest one. So just in case bring some pop-up hampers and use garbage bags as liners for a super quick trash can. At the end of the game,just pop it in a nearby dumpster and not have to worry about it.
DIY bug repellent
Where there is some food there is bound to be some creepy crawlies. So maybe place some sage or rosemary on the charcoals to create a natural bug repellent. It may also add a little gourmet feel to your entrees.
Jumper cables
An essential for a tailgate if your gonna keep your car running or even if you don’t. A dead battery is a true party killer so make sure you have these handy for your car or for your friends.
Entertainment and games
You can’t have a tailgate with people just standing around right? Add some games in the equation to keep your guests and friends entertained before and after the game. Get some true backyard games that can easily be turned to blacktop and do your tailgate the right way. Maybe even add some Shark pride in there with some shark or water-themed games to beat the heat.
Toolbox with essentials
Any grill is gonna need some seasoning and the proper tools to create the perfect burgers and other meats. Store all of these necessities in an easy to use toolbox that you can place right next to the grill for easy access.
Cleaning Station
All these great treats are sure going to leave some messy hands so take a empty laundry detergent bottle with a nozzle and fill it with water. That way your guests can wash up before they get in on their phones or perfect game-day outfits.
Put your Drinks on Ice
The cooler is going to need ice but so are those drinks. Instead of just buying ice that will water down your drink use frozen water balloons to keep them cold. Get some blue and grey balloons to keep the Shark pride in your hand at all times.
Morning Game Menu Change
Most people think tailgating is strictly an afternoon routine. Well breakfast is the most important meal of the day so why not serve some morning handhelds. Make some pancakes and use them as the perfect wrap for all the morning eats. Breakfast burritos or easy omelettes are another alternative for the healthy morning tailgate.
