6 Tips for Stress-Free Tailgating

There’s a special time of year that falls between summer and all-things-pumpkin. It’s the glorious start to the football season and - perhaps more importantly - tailgating! And we couldn’t be more ready. This year, we’re doing it right with a few tailgating tips to streamline your setup. We’re dialing down the hassle so we can turn up the fun, food, family and overall enjoyment. Read on for our 6 tailgating hacks for a stress-free game day so you can get the most out of the season.

1. Give Yourself Time

One of the easiest ways to reduce stress at your tailgate is also the most obvious. You know it. We know it. But it's worth repeating: give yourself plenty of time. When time is on your side, weather delays, traffic james, and parking lot chaos are no big deal.

2. Test Your Grill

Don't be that guy - the one who hypes up the tailgate but can't get the grill going. Especially if it's your first cookout of the season. Clean it, test it, and make sure everything's working. Because nothing ruins a football tailgate faster than a cold grill.

3. Streamline the Menu

Pick your meat, marinate it the night before, and stick to easy finger foods for the rest. Think sliders, skewers, chips, and dips. They're shareable, mess-free, and ideal game day essentials - plus they hold up well during long pre-game hangs. 

4. Think Foldable, Collapsible, Space-Saving

Collapsible tailgating gear is a game-changer. Whether it's foldable furniture, compact games, BBQ tools, or coolers, smart packing gives you more space for what matters - like food, drinks, and friends. 

Products like the Tahoe Collapsible 50 Can Cooler are a space-saving solution that can hold enough food and beverage for the whole team. Haul your gear in one of our 46L Collapsible Storage Bin or 45L Collapsible Utility Crates. When you've emptied the crates, just collapse to free up space.

5. Build a Grab-and-Go BBQ Toolkit

Keep your grilling essentials in one neat container. Include your spatula, tongs, lighter, and fork - but don't stop there. Add durable, reusable plates and utensils, too. When it's time to clean up, pop open a Collapsible Shopping Basket, toss everything inside, and was it all at home.

6. Invest in a Better Chair

If you're a tailgating pro who shows up rain or shine, you deserve comfort. Upgrade to a Kove Outdoor Chair to treat your back and bum right. Our must-haves for a quality foldable chair? A wide seat, ventilated back, and cup holders (obviously) - bonus for it's recline ability.

With these tips, your next tailgate party will be stress-free and a complete success.

Images by Sean Hobson