The pre-party, the game before the game, the bottomless buffalo chicken dip… what is football without a quality tailgate? Football season is the best season, but not without tailgating essentials like the ones we’ve curated below.
Our Tailgating Essentials Checklist
Booze
A tailgate is a good excuse to have a good party. Grab ice and fill your favorite cooler with our favorite portable bevvys, Coppercraft canned cocktails. The Brumate Rolling Cooler takes a tailgate to the next level, acting as both a cooler and a bottle opener. And it fits 48 12 oz cans. You could also pack a portable bar and Coppercraft’s premium spirits to craft cocktails onsite. Remember, the best tailgate hosts are always prepared to welcome unexpected guests and make new friends, which is why booze is one of our tailgating essentials. Have water available and remember to drink responsibly.
Food
A tailgate menu always has must-haves: burgers, hot dogs, brats… Do yourself a gameday favor and pack your favorite foods the night before the big game. Chop veggies, season or marinate meat, pre-form patties, toss salads. Pack it all in a cooler so you can spend time during the tailgate socializing with friends and neighbors rather than preparing the grill.
Grill
If you plan to grill, know the grilling rules at your location. Some stadiums don’t allow charcoal grills. Others do. Consider a portable gas grill like the Nexgrill Portable Propane Grill just in case. Don’t forget fuel, grilling utensils, plates, napkins, trash bags, and more.
Weather
Seasoned fans know tailgating season is susceptible to inclement weather. Pack a pop up tent or canopy and blankets to bundle up in the cold. A folding table helps when grilling or preparing food. You should also bring camping chairs and adequate clothing. Dress in layers and wear shoes that you’re comfortable standing in. Don’t fear the poncho! You’ll be grateful for it if/when the rain comes.
Just for Fun
The makings of a good time include games like bean bag, ladder toss, and KanJam. Portable speakers and a great playlist help too. Bring team apparel to show your team pride and get excited for the game.
Ready to tailgate? Use this list when packing, so you don’t forget any of the tailgating essentials. Can’t wait to see you at the game!
Furniture & Clothing
- Canopy / Stand Up Tent
- Camping Chairs
- Folding Table
- Blankets
- Ponchos
- Change of clothes
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
Grilling/Food Prep
- Portable Grill or Blackstone
- Lighter
- Propane Fluid
- Fuel (Charcoal or Gas)
- Grill Utensils
- Skewers
- Plates
- Utensils
- Serving Utensils
- Drinks + Cups
- Drink Koozies
- Napkins
- Wet wipes
- Trash bag
- Ice
Food
- Brats
- Burgers
- Buns
- Condiments (mustard, ketchup, etc)
- Prepped Skewers
- Veggies for grilling and dip
- Chips
- Cold Salads (potato salad, coleslaw, etc.)
- Dip (buffalo chicken, 7 layer dip, etc.)
- Cooler for food
Drinks
- Coppercraft Cocktails
- Coppercraft Spirits
- Water
- Soda + Beer
- Cooler for Drinks
- Portable Bar set
Games & Activities
- Cornhole boards
- Bean bag toss
- Football
- Frisbee
- Portable speaker
Share your tailgating essentials with us on social by using #coppercraftdistillery. Find our award-winning spirits at our tasting rooms or a retailer near you. Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest from Coppercraft Distillery. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.