Organize-It Blog

Yes, football fans, another season is growing close. If you’re a real fanatic, you’re anticipating every aspect of the game – especially tailgating. I can’t lie, I’m not the biggest pig-skin fan, BUT I have been submerged into the culture at the hands of my friends and family. And tailgating is a blast no matter how committed of a fan you are.

The essentials

There are so many little things you need for that top-shelf tailgating experience, but remembering them all can be a challenge. That’s why I recommend creating your very own tailgate survival kit. Grab all your goods and leave them in one, easy to grab place.

After multiple attempts at creating the best tailgating survival kit, I can say with confidence that I finally found the best one. A tool box. They’re super easy to organize, heavy duty and non-destructive, easy to transport and no man is ashamed to be seen with one. I found this Portable Tool Box and it works great. As for what to pack, here are a few basics:

• grill accessories (tongs, grill brush, spatula)
• aluminum foil, saran wrap
• first aid (band aids and ant-acids for all that pre-game food)
• matches or a lighter
• salt and pepper shakers, spices and shelf-stable condiments
• can/bottle opener
• flashlight
• paper products (paper towel, plates and toilet paper if you’re unsure about bathrooms)
• sunscreen and bug spray
• hand sanitizer
• poncho
• duct tape
• jumper cables

One essential worth mentioning is a meat thermometer. This dual meat and oven one is pretty inexpensive coming in at thirteen bucks and the benefits of it are worth every cent. The last thing you want is your gang consuming under cooked meat before heading in to the stadium. Protect your stomachs and keep your head in the game.

Garbage bags are a huge help too. You have to be prepared that you may have to pack up and take home all the trash you accumulate. Plus, if you’re in Michigan like me, you’re going to want the deposit back on all those empties.

Setting the scene

Last fall, I had the chance to tag along to a University of Michigan game. While I failed to keep my attention on the ball the entire time, the tailgating there was a scene worth experiencing. If you want to compete with the pros, you must have a pop-up canopy. Whether you’re avoiding pre-game showers or scorching sun, this Pop Up Event Canopy will get the job done. Measuring in at 12 by 12 feet, it has room for you and your whole crew. The design is super simple to put up and take down so you don’t waste any of your time on set up.

Food and drinks

The important part, right? When you’re tailgating you want to make sure you have enough space for all of your goods. That’s why I can’t stress enough how important it is to have at least two coolers – one for drinks and one for food. To consolidate space, freeze water bottles to keep beer and food cold; when they melt, you can hydrate.

A portable cooler is a great idea for drinks. This cool red one is super easy to transport. It includes an adjustable strap for carrying and folds up when empty. I also recommend this Back Seat Cooler. It is perfect for food like hot dogs and burgers, but it also includes loads of pockets to tuck in buns and other goods.

Plan ahead

Now you know what it takes to pull off the perfect tailgate, but be sure to plan before putting it in action. Before the event, research and find out:

• Where you can park? And how much space will you have?
• Are open flames allowed? Can you grill?
• Do you have access to running water? What about bathrooms?
• Can you have alcohol?
• Is there a time limit? How early can you start and how late can you stay?

Once you have mastered this, there is nothing left to do but to have fun. Enjoy!

And go Blue!

Find all these products and more at OrganizeIt.com.