If you're like Ree Drummond, football season is everything. With all three of her sons playing college ball now, she's got a pretty packed schedule of games throughout the season. And of course, she knows football isn't just about the game—it's a whole experience! For most avid spectators, that involves tailgating before, during, and even after the game. The tailgate food, the fans, the fun—what could be a better way to spend the day? But for game day success, you can't simply show up in your hat and jersey. You need these tailgate essentials, too!
Our Top Picks
1
Best Appliance
The Pioneer Woman Breezy Blossom 6-Quart Portable Slow Cooker
You'll need to think of everything to make and serve your tailgate menus like grilling accessories and portable grills, plus ways to keep your beverages nice and frosty. Then consider ways to stay comfortable throughout the game like tents, chairs, and outdoor blankets. Everything here is portable, reusable, and durable, so you'll have it for so many winning seasons to come.
Most of these items can also double as camping gear or be used for a backyard barbecue, great even for when it's not game day. Seriously, check out that multipurpose tool and condiment caddy! It's everything. Then ask yourself: Are you ready for some football? With this list and a few of our favorite tailgate games, you absolutely will be! Now it's time to gear up and get out there. Go team!
1
Best Appliance
The Pioneer Woman Breezy Blossom 6-Quart Portable Slow Cooker
1
Best Appliance
The Pioneer Woman Breezy Blossom 6-Quart Portable Slow Cooker
A slow cooker is an invaluable tailgating tool. You can cook in advance, keep food warm all game, and serve it right out of the pot. A portable version like this six-quart option from The Pioneer Woman collection has clips on the lids, so you won't spill on the way to and from the game.
A sturdy cooler will hold ice and the frostiest beverages all game long. Make your life easier by getting a large capacity option with wheels and a handle, so you can simply drag it where it needs to go.
Burgers, hot dogs, brats―they just aren't possible without a grill. A portable gas Weber is easy to transport and easy to start. Just press the ignition button, and you're off! Prefer charcoal? Weber's got a portable one of those, too.
If you're grilling, you need a good tool set. Why not grab a set with your team's logo? You'll get a spatula, some tongs, and two chip clips. These are for colleges, but they make them for NFL teams, too!
If you're cooking and eating outside, you'll probably need a portable generator to provide extra power to all your appliances. This is an affordable find that you can even charge in your car. It has also USB ports for your smaller electronics, too.
If you've got a big set up, an extension cord is a must. But don't bring any ol' cord. Nope, get one that is extra long (this is 25 feet!), rolls up for easy storage, and provides several plugs and USB ports.
Brrr, it can get a little chilly during the later part of the season. An outdoor blanket is key to keeping warm. You can drape it over your shoulders or legs, and this one is large enough to share with a buddy.
What's the point of making all that food if you have nowhere to put it? An adjustable table will give you four feet of space for all those goodies, and then fold up for easy storage in your car.
You've grilled everything, and now it's time to chow down. Create a space for all the utensils and condiments, so they are easy to find. That paper towel holder alone is a game changer!
This comfy chair features a roomy seat, adjustable arms, and a cooler pouch to keep up to four drinks chilled by your side. Best of all, it folds up into a portable carrier bag so you don't waste space.
Make batches of your favorite beverages and set them out in style with a drink dispenser set. These two durable glass jugs have a one-gallon capacity and sit on top of their own ice bucket to stay cool. Label each and let the partygoers choose.
No tailgate is complete without cornhole. This set is durable, solid wood that ships plain so you can paint or decal it any way you wish. It has a storage tote and the bean bags included, so you'll be all set.
Play some pre-game tunes or blast the play-by-play if you're not in the stadium. This small speaker is high quality, waterproof, and works for 24 hours straight. It's bluetooth compatible with most phones, too!
Going into the game? Make sure you're stadium compliant with a clear tote for everything you need inside. It's big enough to hold your phone, wallet, keys, and even a cozy blanket if you get cold.