Whether you are attending your favorite collegiate sporting event, exploring the great outdoors or visiting family, Airstream tailgates are a sure way to Live Riveted on the road. However, we understand planning these events can be intimidating, even for the most advanced tailgater. For those who want some help getting started, check out these 5 tips and tricks on tailgating Airstream style:
- Most tailgates involve a lot of cooking (and even more eating), so be careful not to get caught without your utensils! One way to make sure you’re always prepared is to fill a toolbox with utensils and other cooking tools and keep it in your Airstream at all times. Some suggestions of what to keep in the toolbox are spatulas, bottle openers, tongs, toothpicks, flashlights, a basting brush, wet wipes, trash bags, a can opener and Sharpies. With these essentials on hand, you will never worry about letting down a hungry crowd!
- If you plan on tailgating the night away, we recommend some battery-powered lights. Lanterns, strings of holiday lights and even luminaires can add ambience to your tailgate. Battery-powered decorations are great, since they free up outlets you may need for other activities. Plus, when your tailgate looks more like a home, you are guaranteed to make everyone feel comfortable and have more fun.
- Tailgates are great places to meet new people, so why not introduce yourself to your neighbors! Fellow tailgaters are sure to be a great resource if you realize you need some help grilling or want to learn some tips on exploring the area. You may even discover like-minded friends on the road, especially with fellow Airstreamers. When you are visiting a sporting event, meeting other fans can make the atmosphere even more exciting. You can talk about the season, share face paint and get the whole parking lot in the game-time spirit!
- The best tailgater is prepared for any situation, so it pays to be a watchful weatherman. Rainy days can quickly put a damper on a tailgate if you do not have a rain plan. Keep plastic bags and umbrellas close by to protect your food, family and decorations from rain. On hot days, packing an extra case of water will keep everyone cool and happy. Even windy weather can be a tailgating challenge—check out these helpful hints from Weber about grilling on windy days.
- Finally, and most importantly, make sure you secure a spot for your Airstream. Most events will release information ahead of time about where you can set up your tailgate. If the information is not available online, you can call ahead and plan where to park. On the day of the event, try to be one of the first groups there! Even if you are not a morning person, it will be worth it later in the day to have the perfect tailgating location. Your careful planning and early arrival will create memorable tailgating experience for everyone.
We would love to hear from you, Airstreamers! What are some of your favorite tailgating tips and tricks? Comment with your hints and help the whole Airstream community tailgate in style.
Photo credit: Stacy Nuhfer
