Free Tailgate Packing List Plus How to Tailgate Like a Champ

This tailgate essentials guide will walk you through everything you need to know to host an epic tailgate party, including a printable tailgate packing list. Whether you’re a seasoned tailgater or a newbie looking to experience the thrill for the first time, we’ve got you covered. Expect practical tips, a thorough tailgate packing list, and expert advice to ensure your tailgate is the talk of the parking lot.

Few things are as quintessentially American as a tailgate party. These vibrant gatherings have become an integral part of the sports culture nationwide. From college football games to professional sports events, tailgating is where fans celebrate their teams, share good food, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends, family, and fellow enthusiasts. But where did this beloved tradition come from?

Tailgating dates back to the early 20th century, with some claiming the first instance happened at the college football game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869. The tradition has evolved significantly since then, from humble beginnings into elaborate affairs featuring gourmet spreads, live music, and themed decor. Today, tailgating is a testament to the community spirit and passion that sports ignite in people.

📌PIN IT FOR YOUR TAILGATING FRIENDS.📌

Affiliate Disclosure: There are affiliate links throughout this post. This means if you click on a link and purchase a product through that link, then I will receive a small commission for the referral. And that is kinda cool.

What is a tailgate party?

Realizing that many of you may not know what a tailgate party is, I embarked on some research. There are varying historical explanations of this uniquely American experience.

According to this article on Mile High Report, tailgating began at Lambeau Field in 1919. Fans would pack the sidelines, fill the backs of their trucks with food, and spend the day with friends and family cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

Nowadays, we show up before 8 AM to set up the tents, prepare BBQ, drink some adult beverages, and hang out with friends before the game starts. Even after the game, the party continues while we wait for the traffic to clear. The tailgate party has become a way of life on Saturdays down south.

We are taking the party on the road to cities such as Lexington, Starkville, and Knoxville. We leave with only one regret: we wish we could have stayed longer.

In our recent travels, we have had great successes and epic failures. I have learned how important it is to organize and prepare ahead of time, especially for a traveling tailgate, and to recruit some helpful friends.

Tip #1: Before collecting all of the items on your tailgate packing checklist, scope out the venue and read the tailgate policies.

On the Skyscanner website, you will find thorough tailgating policies for stadiums. Check out this policy at the Dallas Cowboys stadium, for example. You will need to be familiar with the rules and likely need to purchase a parking spot.

Here, you will find parking information for Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, including directions, pricing, and tailgating information. A little research before you go will help you park quickly and get this party started.

Many stadiums have services that will set up everything for you. By having it all set up for you, including catering and drinks, all you have to do is show up. Hiring this type of service takes all the guesswork out of your traveling tailgate.

However, if this cannot be arranged, I can help. This four-page Traveling Tailgate Packing Checklist is all-inclusive and has plenty of space to write in extras.

Instantly download the 4-Page Traveling Tailgate Packing Checklist.

Quintessential tailgate food and drink to add to your tailgate essentials list.

Historically, tailgate food has consisted of wings, burgers, and Barbecues. Add a few specials, such as Cowboy Caviar, Deviled Eggs, and anything with Bacon, and you are ready to roll.

The perfect tailgate foods need to have all of the following:

• The dish needs to travel well.
• And must feed a lot of people.
• The food should be able to sit out for long periods without going bad.
• And it all must be easy to pick up and eat on the go.

And, of course, ice-cold beer.

Here are some links to fantastic recipes I have used over the years, including BBQ and healthier options.

Give them some love.

• 25 Tailgate Food Ideas That Will Score Every Time ~ That Cowboy Caviar, though!
• Quick and Easy Tailgating and Game Day Food
• Best Tailgate Recipes on the BBQ
• 15 Healthier Tailgating Recipes

And the Four Family Favorites for Gameday Tailgate Party.

Below are recipe cards that can be pinned and printed.

Cowboy Caviar

Print

Cowboy Caviar, a crowd favorite, is super easy to prepare ahead of time for a large crowd. Combine the fresh ingredients, beans, and spices with oil, vinegar, and lime juice for the perfect tailgate dish.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Can of Black Eyed Peas, rinsed and drained.
• 1 Can of Black Beans, rinsed and drained.
• 1 Can of Super sweet corn, rinsed and drained.
• 1/2 Cup Diced Roma Tomatoes.
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Red Pepper.
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Green Pepper.
• 1/2 Cup Chopped Red Onion.
• Chopped Cilantro Leaves to Taste.
• Chopped Jalapenos for Taste.
• 1/2 Cup Olive Oil.
• Juice of a Lime.
• 2 Tablespoons of Red Wine Vinegar.
• 1 Tablespoon of Sugar.
• Dash of Garlic Powder.
• Dash of Cumin.

Instructions

1. Blend the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, cumin, lime juice, and sugar in a large bowl.
2. Add the tomatoes, peppers, onions, black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, and cilantro.
3. Add jalapeno peppers for a bit of spice. I usually make two batches, one with extra jalapeno for those who love a little heat, and one for those mild folks.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to blend the flavors.
5. Serve with or without tortilla chips.

8 Ingredient Quick and Simple White Sangria with Fruit

Print

Make this fresh, tasty, and strong Sangria for your tailgate crowd. They will all want the recipe. Best to soak the fruit overnight to make it super tipsy & happy.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Large Honey Crisp Apple
• 1 Navel Orange
• 1/2 Cup Moonshine Soaked Cherries (optional to soak them in Moonshine, but it's delicious)
• Sprinkle of Cinnamon
• 1 1/2 Liter Sauvignon Blanc (or other cheap dry white wine)
• 1/2 cup Gran Marnier
• 1 cup Peach Brandy
• 1/2 Liter of Ginger Ale
• Slice of Lime, Optional

Instructions

1. Cut the Honey Crisp Apple into small cubes.
2. Quarter the Navel Orange and slice.
3. Add the Cherries and a sprinkle of Cinnamon.
4. Cover the fruit with the white wine, Gran Marnier, and Peach Brandy. I typically soak the fruit all night, but you don't have to.
5. When ready to serve, add the Ginger ale to the mix.
6. Serve over ice with a slice of lime if you wish.
7. Enjoy, and don't forget to eat your fruit salad, it's the best part.

6 Tips How To Make the Best Chocolate Brownies Ever

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Here are six tips when making the best brownies ever. The mix is crucial, but that's not all.

Instructions

1. The Mix — I have tried multiple mixes and I have made brownies from scratch. The winner is Ghirardelli Chocolate Supreme Brownie Mix, even over homemade.
2. Olive Oil — Olive Oil gives a bit of a fruity taste to the brownies without compromising the texture. And olive oil is a healthier fat.
3. Do Not Overmix — In fact, undermix, and leave some lumps. Overmixing will give you dry, dense, and often stiff brownies. Mix until all of the dry ingredients are joined with the wet, and then stop mixing.
4. Bring Your Eggs to Room Temperature — Whisk your eggs for several minutes AFTER you bring them to room temperature. The eggs will disperse better when combined with the dry ingredients.
5. Do Not Overcook — Cook the brownies for about five minutes less than what the package says. Check them by inserting a fork or toothpick in the center. If the fork or toothpick comes out with a few little crumbs, the brownies are done. It is better to remove them from the oven slightly undercooked as they will continue to cook a bit on your countertop.
6. The Trick To Cutting Brownies is to Use a Plastic Knife — I have cut brownies with multiple types of knives and always made the biggest and crumbiest mess. And then I discovered the plastic knife. It is life-changing. They will be perfectly sliced every time.

Quick & Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Print

Rich and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is a staple for any tailgate and always a crowd fav. Serve it up in a bread bowl and use the bread cubes for dipping. Pair it up with tortilla chips, carrot sticks, and celery sticks.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 8-oz Cream Cheese, bring to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1/4 Cup Sour Cream
• 1 TBSP Parsley
• 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese
• 1/2 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• 14-oz Can of Artichokes, drain the liquid, and finely chop
• 6-oz Frozen Chopped Spinach, thaw it out and drain the excess liquid
• Dash of Garlic Salt
• Bread Bowl
• Tortilla Chips
• Carrot Sticks
• Celery Sticks

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350.
2. Spray a baking dish with nonstick oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and garlic salt.
4. Stir in chopped artichokes and spinach.
5. Add mixture to your baking dish.
6. Bake for about twenty minutes.
7. Serve in a bread bowl with a side of tortilla chips, carrot sticks, and celery sticks.

Notes

• Kick up the heat by chopping up one (or two) jalapeno peppers and add to the mix before cooking.
• If you are hosting a homegate, you will love this idea. Purchase a loaf of French Bread. Slice lengthwise and remove inner bread to create a "boat" for the dip. Spread the spinach artichoke dip and top with parmesan cheese. Bake at 350 for about twenty minutes. Slice the deliciousness and serve.

Essential Tailgate Items to Add to Your Tailgate Packing List.

The Necessary Stuff.

• TICKETS! These days, most tickets are touch-free. Ensure you upload your tickets before you get to the venue, as sometimes the Wi-Fi isn’t that great, and you will have trouble.
• Clear Bag ~ Many sports venues now have a clear bag policy. Check each venue’s rules and regulations regarding what type of bags are permitted.
• Team Spirit Apparel.
• First Aid Kit With the Basics.

9 Essential Items for Your Tailgate Packing List.

1. Tailgate Tent or Canopy.
2. Tailgate Chairs (AKA Camping Chairs).
3. Three Quality Coolers: Bring along two coolers to separate the adult beverages from the kid’s beverages and one cooler for food items.
4. Folding Tables. You will probably need two.
5. Table Cloths. Fun, but optional.
6. Television.
7. Blue Tooth Speakers.
8. Satellite Dish.
9. Generator.

Read this for pro tips to help you choose the perfect cooler and pack your cooler the correct way to protect your food and drinks and prevent food waste.

Make Sure to Add What You Need to Serve Food and Drink to Your Tailgate Packing List.

• Disposable utensils.
• Paper Plates.
• Napkins/Paper Towels.
• Red Solo Cups.
• Serving Utensils.
• Bottle Opener/Corkscrew.
• Koozies.

And What You Need for Clean-Up.

• Garbage Bags.
• Recycle Bags.
• Ziplock Bags for Leftovers (although often the food has been sitting out all day).
• Aluminum Foil.
• Wet Wipes.

Should You Add Your Grill or Not to Your Tailgate Packing List?

Creative Tailgate Entertainment Ideas.

In addition to watching games on television, listening to your gameday playlist, and hanging out with your besties, try these fun activities.

• Cornhole is always a crowd favorite and fun for any age.
• Photobooth for documenting memories.
• Pack a football for the small kiddos and adult kiddos.
• Giant Jenga or Connect 4
• Make new friends and exchange food and drink ideas with your tailgating neighbors.
• Host a cookoff — chili, wings, burger, ribs, or macaroni and cheese cookoff.

Gameday Playlist Favorites.

Disclaimer:  I am from the South!

Set the mood and get the party started with your favorite gameday tunes. Let’s start with anything by Jimmy Buffett, Tom Petty, or Kenny Chesney.

And here are twenty more.

1. Boys ‘Round Here by Blake Shelton.
2. Brought to You by Beer by Cole Swindell.
3. Castaway by Zac Brown Band.
4. Chillin’ It by Cole Swindell.
5. Cruise by Florida Georgia Line.
6. Get Your Shine On by Florida Georgia Line.
7. God’s Country by Blake Shelton.
8. It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere by Alan Jackson.
9. Knee Deep by Zac Brown Band.
10. Money by Blake Shelton.
11. Parking Lot Party by Lee Brice (my fav).
12. Party People by Florida Georgia Line.
13. Pass a Beer by Jake Owen.
14. Red Solo Cup by Toby Keith.
15. Rum by Brothers Osborne.
16. Sangria by Blake Shelton.
17. Some Beach by Blake Shelton.
18. Tailgate by Colt Ford.
19. Tall Glass of Something by Jake Owen.
20. This is How We Roll by Florida Georgia Line.

Reminders on Safety Measures

Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure that your grill is attended to at all times and that a fire extinguisher is nearby for emergencies. Designate a sober driver or arrange transportation for guests who plan to consume alcohol.

Encourage guests to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Provide plenty of water and remind everyone to take breaks in the shade to avoid overheating.

Be mindful of your surroundings and keep pathways clear of any tripping hazards. A clutter-free environment ensures that everyone can move around comfortably and safely.

You will need the proper vehicle to transport everything on your tailgate packing list.

As you know, the tailgate party originated from an actual truck bed. However, the big ole SUVs are even better. When traveling, you may need to divide some goods amongst your friends to manage everything.

Power Up.

If you bring the TV and satellite dish, you must power up. Find a quiet generator that will last the entire party. You will also need enough fuel for the day.

Create a dedicated tailgate box with the following tailgate essentials.

Expert Tip: If you plan on becoming a tailgate warrior, create a dedicated space for your items at home. Next, pack similar items in stackable bins and organize them on your tailgate shelves. Then, when you are ready to roll on gameday, they are ready to grab and go.

Now, print this tailgate packing list for reference and store it with all of your tailgate items.

• TICKETS! These days, most tickets are touch-free. Ensure you upload your tickets before you get to the venue, as sometimes the Wi-Fi isn’t that great, and you will have trouble.
• Clear Bag ~ Many sports venues now have a clear bag policy. Check each venue’s rules and regulations regarding what type of bags are permitted.
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Ponchos
• Hoodie
• Gloves
• Scarf
• Warm Hat or Cap
• Pepcid/Motrin/Tylenol
• Camera

⬇Don’t forget the shotski.⬇

Let’s Talk Weather.

Always check the forecast before you head out to the stadium.

If it’s hot, dress for the occasion. Pack more water than you think you will need. Bring a fan; if you can’t access an outlet, invest in a battery-operated fan. Pack sunscreen, and wear a cap to protect your scalp from the sun. Wear bug spray. And maybe even use a personal mister.

If it’s cold, dress for the occasion. Bring a scarf, gloves, and a hat—pack a lap blanket for your tailgate chair. And wear chapstick.

Pack your poncho for a rainy day, as tailgating is rain or shine.

Top 5 Tips for Cold Weather Tailgating.

We are lucky enough to live in Florida, where cold-weather tailgating is not an issue. So, my friend Melissa is here to share her top five cold-weather tailgating tips.  

Melissa Berry founded EverydaySpokane.com, where she shares the best things to experience in the Pacific and Inland Northwest. EverydaySpokane.com is a resource for those looking to make the Inland and Pacific Northwest their home, with everything from becoming a Washington State resident to finding the best local-favorite coffee shops. 

Not everyone is lucky enough to tailgate in warm parts of the country. If you’re tailgating in the fall and winter months in cold climates, there are a few things to be aware of.

Below, I’ll cover my top tips for tailgating when it’s cold outside with the knowledge I’ve earned through my cold fingers!

Essential Warm Weather Gear.

As Jenny mentions above, you’ll want a warm hat or cap, hoodie, gloves, and scarf for your tailgate if it’s cooler outside.

At my first cold-weather tailgate, I brought all of this and thought I was good! Think again, my friends. If it’s anywhere below 45 degrees, you’ll want more, especially if you’ll be outside for more than an hour.

Cold weather tailgating essentials include:

• Layers! Jeans will not cut it. Wear thermals under your thick jeans, and wear layers under your hoodie. Think lightweight layers, ones you can peel off but also hug close to your body to keep you warm. 
• Hand warmers – Put them in your sweater/hoodie, put them in your mittens, keep them around for friends. These hand warmers are life-savers.
• Padded seat! Jenny mentioned chairs, which are great, but if you’re not sure where you’ll be sitting OR if you’ll be moving to hard, cold stadium seats, consider bringing a seat like this Coleman or another packable seat. It will keep your butt warmer, which helps (even when you are wearing layers!)

Up Your Game with a Tailgate Heater.

The real cold-weather tailgating pros all have one thing in common under their canopies… a tailgating heater! This type is the one I’ve experienced the most, although there are cheaper options out there.

You might want to splurge for the best heater, especially if you do plan on being an outdoor tailgater in cold weather. And yes, I said, “if you plan”… I’ve seen plenty of cold weather tailgating fans simply bring RVs to tailgate inside because it’s too cold out.

Be careful with little ones or clumsy adults around the heater – I did have a friend fall on one, and her glove melted quickly onto the heater, so be careful.

With that in mind, the heater is a great way to warm up quickly, enjoy food in the warmth, and chat with your tailgating buddies while warming up.

Don’t Forget to Move Around.

In between eating, cheering, chatting, playing games, and enjoying the music, don’t forget to get around. Once the game starts, everything at stadiums (no matter how big or small) gets busy. 

If you’re in the cold, it makes even more sense to walk around, grab some hot chocolate or coffee, find the bathrooms, and get a sense of where everything is. Of course, after a while, you’ll learn where everything is, but if you’re new to tailgating, this is super helpful… and comes in handy for the next tip.

Get In and Get Out.

There is truly, absolutely nothing worse than a game-ending (especially a game your team lost) and having to wait in lines behind people moving slowly to leave the stadium/area while it’s cold outside. You’re likely tired, maybe thirsty, maybe sad about the game, and you’re even colder because the heater was packed up.

Maybe this advice is because our team usually loses, but even if you’re all excited about a win, you’re still going to be cold and a little tired!

As much as possible, pack up ahead of time and know where all the exits are in your stadium. For safety’s sake, there are usually at least two. Make sure you know where the closest one is to you ahead of time so you can minimize how much time you spend outside in the cold.

Make Friends!

One of the best parts I’ve found about tailgating is meeting other people in the area, especially in the cold weather. They’ve always had the best food, the best heater options, the best tips on staying warm and enjoying the game – and pretty good drinks, too.

For the most part, many tailgaters are excited to be there, and many of them are pros at it. If it’s one of your first times tailgating, walk around and casually chat with friendly tailgaters. If this is one of your first times cold weather tailgating, compliment the people who are staying warm and ask them for their tips.

We did this the first time we were freezing while tailgating and learned a ton (that heater I mentioned above! Wearing layers!) You’ll get the best expert advice – and get to warm up near their heaters before heading back to your tailgating spot.

After all, remember that tailgating is an experience, whether your team wins or loses. You’re there for the camaraderie and food – and hopefully a win, too! So pack your chapstick and follow these excellent instructions, and one day you’ll be the one giving advice to newbie tailgaters.

13 Final Top Tips for the Perfect Tailgate.

1. Be kind. Make new friends. Befriend your neighbors, as they may have some top tips or recipes that you need.
2. Use this tailgate packing list so you don’t forget anything.
3. Bring hand sanitizer, which is more critical now than ever.  
4. And don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.
5. Make tailgate food that is easy to grab and go and doesn’t make a big mess.
6. Prep everything possible the night before, even the SUV or truck.
7. Learn how to pack a cooler properly — this is paramount when ready for an ice-cold beer. A warm beer is disappointing.
8. Consider labeling your cooler for kids and adults. Our guests know that adult beverages are on the right and kid’s beverages are on the left. We mark the Sangria so the kids don’t mistake it for fruit juice.
9. Pack a first aid kit, just in case.
10. Bring more trash bags than you think you will need.
11. Pack spirit accessories for your friends — beads, temporary tattoos, pom-poms.
12. And add your team logo to everything possible.
13. Clean up after yourself. Never leave a mess for others.

Tailgating isn’t just about food and drinks; it’s about creating memorable experiences with friends and fellow fans. With the proper planning, packing, and an epic party spirit, your tailgate can be the highlight of game day.

Remember, preparation is essential. With this ultimate guide and a comprehensive tailgate packing list, you’re ready to host a tailgate party that will be remembered long after the final whistle.

Now, it’s your turn to turn these tips into action. Gather your friends, prepare your gear, and make your next tailgate the best ever. 

Safe Travels, Cheers, and Go Gators from Traveling Party of Four!