Tailgate Party Gear: Everything You Need 2025
Canadians are no strangers to gathering in parking lots and open fields before big games or outdoor events. From Grey Cup festivities to local hockey tournaments, tailgating is a celebration of food, fun, and fandom.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to throw a successful tailgate party. From setting up your space and firing up the grill to staying safe and organized, we’ve got all the essential tailgate party gear covered—plus a few pro tips to keep the good times rolling. Dive in for a happy partying experience!
Setting the Scene: Shelter and Seating Essentials
Before you fire up the grill or cue up the music, it’s essential to create a welcoming, weather-resistant base for your tailgate party. This gear keeps your crew comfortable and protected.
Pop-Up Canopy or Tent
A sturdy pop-up canopy is your first defence against unpredictable weather. Choose one with UV-resistant fabric, water-repellent coating, and telescoping legs for height adjustment. Set it up over your food and seating area to create a cozy hub for gathering. Some models offer side panels to block wind or create shade.
Folding Chairs with Cup Holders
Comfortable chairs keep your guests happy for hours. Look for padded seats, breathable mesh backs, and sturdy armrests. Built-in cup holders or side pockets for phones and snacks offer added convenience. Foldable frames make transportation easy, especially when space is limited.
Portable Tables
Having one or two foldable tables provides a surface for food prep, drinks, or card games. Look for weatherproof resin or aluminium tops, which clean easily and hold up to outdoor use. Adjustable legs let you match heights with coolers or chairs, improving usability.
Outdoor Rugs or Mats
Add a large outdoor mat under your setup to define your tailgate space. These rugs are typically made from woven polypropylene, which resists moisture and sand. It keeps dirt off your gear and adds a touch of comfort underfoot.
Grilling and Cooking Equipment
The aroma of sizzling burgers and grilled sausages is the hallmark of any good tailgate. With the right cooking tools, you can feed a crowd efficiently and safely.
Portable Grill
A compact gas grill with electronic ignition is ideal for quick start-ups. Charcoal grills, while slower, give a deeper smoky taste. Moreover, an electric grill is also popular today for its eco-friendliness and easy maintenance. Be sure to bring a portable power station to keep your grill and more electronics running smoothly. Keep a grill mat underneath to protect the ground and simplify clean-up.
BBQ Tool Set
Invest in a comprehensive BBQ tool set with long-handled tongs, a durable spatula, skewers, a meat thermometer, and a wire brush. Choose stainless steel tools with heat-resistant handles for safety. Some sets come in compact roll-up bags or hard cases for tidy transport.
Cooking Fuel and Fireproof Gloves
Always pack extra propane canisters, charcoal bags, or butane tanks—whatever your grill requires. Bring natural fire starters if using charcoal. Fireproof gloves help you handle hot components, while heat-resistant silicone mats protect your table or tailgate from scorch marks.
Food and Beverage Supplies
A successful tailgate party hinges on good food, cold drinks, and the right supplies to serve them all with ease. Here’s a list of essential food and beverage items to pack for your next tailgate event, along with a few must-have accessories to keep things running smoothly.
Grilling Essentials:
Meats: burgers, hot dogs, sausages, chicken wings
Veggie options: portobello mushrooms, veggie burgers, skewers
Buns, tortillas, or wraps
Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, relish, BBQ sauce
Seasonings: salt, pepper, spices, marinades
Sides & Snacks:
Chips and dip
Pasta salad or potato salad
Coleslaw or mixed greens
Pickles, olives, or finger foods
Pre-cut fruits or veggies with hummus
Drinks:
Bottled water
Soda or sparkling water
Beer, hard seltzers, or cocktails (if allowed)
Coolers with ice packs or bagged ice
Coffee in a thermos (for early games)
Serving and Storage Supplies:
Reusable or disposable plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery
Trash bags and recycling bins
Food containers with lids
Bottle openers and corkscrews.
Looking for a good portable cooler or freezer to keep your food and drinks cold? Consider the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic 55L Portable Fridge Freezer, featuring dual-zone temperature control, a 298Wh built-in battery for up to 43 hours of off-grid operations, and smart app controls without the mess. Great for keeping meat, dairy, and frozen treats ready to serve.
EcoFlow GLACIER Classic 55L Portable Fridge Freezer
Entertainment and Ambiance
Tailgating is about more than food—it’s about fun. Make your party memorable with music, games, and lighting that bring people together and keep the energy high.
Bluetooth Speaker with Long Battery Life
A portable Bluetooth speaker delivers high-quality sound without needing wall power. Opt for weatherproof, dust-resistant models with at least 12–15 hours of playtime. Some brands even sync multiple speakers for stereo surround sound.
Tailgate Games
Nothing livens up a crowd like a friendly game. Bring cornhole, ladder toss, or KanJam for active players. Card decks, trivia games, or a football to toss around make it inclusive for everyone. Store game pieces in a labelled bin to avoid losing them.
Decorative Lighting and Team Spirit
Clip-on LED string lights, solar lanterns, and illuminated team signs set the mood as the sun goes down. Use your team’s colours for tablecloths, paper fans, and temporary face paint to spark camaraderie among guests and strangers alike.
Projector and Inflatable Screen
Want to catch the game or pre-show highlights right from your tailgate spot? A compact projector and inflatable screen can turn your setup into a pop-up theatre for everyone to enjoy. It’s a fun way to bring people together, whether you're streaming live sports, watching replays, or even throwing on a movie after dark.
Safety and Comfort Items
Beyond fun and food, a great tailgate should also be safe and comfortable. These essential items help ensure guests stay warm, clean, and well cared for throughout the event.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit should contain not just band-aids, but gauze, tape, antiseptic, tweezers, antihistamines, and pain relief. Store it in a waterproof pouch near your food and tools.
Weather Protection
Umbrellas, rain ponchos, and windbreakers can mean the difference between early departure and continued celebration. Always monitor weather apps and pack extra layers for your guests.
Bug Spray and Sunscreen
Mosquitoes and sunburns are easy to forget until it's too late. Offer guests bug spray and SPF 30+ sunscreen. Bring a shaded tent or umbrella for UV protection.
Folding Blankets and Seat Cushions
Even during summer evenings, temperatures can drop. Fleece blankets and seat cushions add warmth and softness to folding chairs or picnic tables. Roll them up tight for easy packing.
Reliable Backup Power
To keep everything powered up, don’t forget a reliable power source. The EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station is a great companion for outdoor setups. With a 1024Wh capacity and 1800W AC output, it easily supports projectors, lights, speakers, and more. Multiple ports, including USB-C, USB-A, and car output, let you charge several devices at once without hassle.
EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station
Packing and Organization Tips
A memorable tailgate party isn’t just about the food and fun—it’s also about smart packing and staying organized. Here are some essential tailgate organization tips that are both practical and SEO-friendly:
Use Color-Coded Totes for Easy Sorting: Assign colors to different gear categories—blue for cooking tools, red for safety supplies, and green for games. Add waterproof labels and stack totes in your trunk to maximize space and simplify unpacking at the venue.
Track Items with a Packing Checklist App: Make a tailgate party checklist or stay on top of your essentials by using apps like Google Keep or PackPoint. These digital tools allow you to build, save, and share lists, perfect for dividing responsibilities among your tailgate crew.
Keep a Clear Bin for Grab-and-Go Essentials: Designate a transparent plastic bin for must-haves like duct tape, zip ties, extra batteries, phone chargers, paper towels, and a multi-tool. Its visibility helps you quickly find what you need without digging.
Bring Collapsible Storage for Quick Cleanup: Foldable crates or bins are ideal for post-party organization. Use them to pack trash, gather dirty dishes, or collect leftover gear. They fold flat for easy storage after the event.
Prep Food in Advance and Pack Cleaning Supplies: Chop veggies, marinate meats, and organize snacks beforehand. Don’t forget wet wipes, napkins, and hand sanitizer to keep everything clean and mess-free throughout the party.
Conclusion
Tailgating is about creating great memories with good food, great company, and the right gear. From seating and shade to grills, music, and games, every detail adds to the experience. With proper planning, your event becomes more enjoyable and less stressful.
Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned tailgater, this guide on tailgate party gear helps you show up prepared and party-ready. Bring your team spirit, pack smart, and enjoy every moment—because the best games start long before kickoff.
FAQs
What do people wear to tailgate parties?
Tailgaters usually wear comfortable clothing in team colours or jerseys. Layers are ideal for shifting weather, and hats or sunglasses help with sun protection. Bring a hoodie or jacket if it’s a fall game or an early morning start.
What are good tailgate items?
Popular tailgate items include portable grills, foldable chairs, coolers, reusable tableware, Bluetooth speakers, and outdoor games like cornhole. Canopies, blankets, and lighting add comfort and ambiance, while tailgate party essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and a first aid kit ensure safety.
How can I make my tailgate more fun?
Add fun with music, team-themed decorations, and interactive games like ladder toss or trivia. Serve crowd-pleasing food and drinks, bring a projector for pre-game highlights, and create cozy seating. Personal touches and group involvement keep the energy high.
What does every tailgate need?
Every tailgate needs shelter, seating, a way to cook or serve food, cold drinks, and some form of entertainment. Don’t forget safety basics like weather gear and first aid, along with smart storage to make setup and cleanup easier.