Tailgate Party Essentials

A cargo-friendly car, truck or SUV may prove useful for tailgating, but they certainly aren't required. Sheer enthusiasm and the right accessories can overcome the worst vehicular hurdles.

"You don't need a Country Squire station wagon with the old-school tailgate to have a tailgate party," says Luke Lincoln. Lincoln, 37, has tailgated ballparks across the country and now sells tailgating supplies through The American Tailgater, a Chicago-based company that he co-founded.

"You can do it anywhere," he says. "It's basically picnicking."

Beyond food, drinks and tunes, the right mix of hardware can make or break a tailgate party.

Expert Recommendations

The Grill

Your grill can be anything from a tiny hibachi to a 30,000-BTU burner, so long as it cooks enough meat for your crowd. Charcoal grills are still the reigning champs, but gas grills are making a comeback, since startup and cleanup tend to be easier.

Coolers

Bring at least two coolers — one for beverages, the other for meat. Models range from basic Styrofoam boxes all the way to thermoelectric mini-fridges that plug into a vehicle's auxiliary power outlet.

Folding Chairs

Unless you want your guests winding down 45 minutes into the festivities, give them a place to sit. We find that folding chairs are easier to store than plastic lawn chairs.

Folding Table

While fold-down tailgates serve as a good perch for food and beverages, many vehicles have ditched them for raised liftgates. Stand-alone tables provide the extra room you'll need for a winning spread.

Power Inverter

Consider bringing a power inverter if you want to plug in a television, radio or anything else that uses a conventional alternating current. Inverters can turn a vehicle's direct-current outlet (the cigarette lighter in many cars) into a power source for twin-pronged AC plugs. If you're looking to include lots of heavy artillery — multiple TVs, a parking lot speaker system or an outdoor heater — bring a stand-alone generator to the event.

Flags

In a crowded parking lot, flags provide a beacon for your tailgaters to meet up. Bring at least two flags: one with your team's colors, the other with a distinct design so stragglers can find you when they finally show up.

Games

When plates are clean and cups run dry, keep guests entertained with poker (if you remembered the folding table and chairs) or a beanbag toss.


Photos by Chase Agnello-Dean, Cars.com