The best way to get hyped up for the game day is to join in the pregame festivities.

Tailgating is a hailed football tradition you can find at stadiums and neighborhood culdesacs alike. However, if you’re new to this festive practice, there are a few things you should know.

Take advantage of these tailgating tips to make the most out of your experience.

7 Tailgating Tips to Elevate Your Fun

A few extra preparations can make all the difference when joining in on a fun-filled tailgating experience. Make sure you add these pregame musts to your to-do list:

1. Prepare to Show Up Several Hours Early

Thinking of packing your tailgating goodies the morning of the game? Think again! While you’re drinking your morning coffee and stuffing the cooler, other hardcore sports fans are already on their way to the tailgating site.

Instead, plan. Do most of your packing the night before so you can show up several hours early to the pregame location. This will make sure you find a good spot and have plenty of room to set up.

2. Keep Your Drinks Cool Beyond the Ice

Nothing is worse than a warm drink on a hot day. Spare yourself the unpleasant experience by packing a set of foam covers that fit your bottles or cans.

Don’t have any? This website showcases a wide selection.

3. Pack Your Cooler and Containers Right

To ensure your food and drinks remain properly cooled, start by chilling everything first. When you’re ready to fill the cooler, put your drinks at the bottom and cover them with ice.

Bagged food should always be placed on top and containers should be waterproof.

If you’re cooking warm food to bring with you, try these awesome recipes for game day snacks, then store them in insulated containers.

4. Pack the Right Gear

Think ahead to how you plan to spend your tailgating experience. If you’re cooking, bring a grill with a clean grate.

Also, consider investing in some shade. Pack a tent to shield you from the elements and always check the weather beforehand. If it’s a cold day, a travel heater will come in handy.

5. Organize Your Grilling Goodies

Marinate your meat, make your burger patties, and organize your condiments into separate containers the night before. Aluminum trays are great for this and you can pick them up at your local grocery store for relatively cheap.

6. Bring Along Games for Entertainment

Don’t limit your fun to food and drinks. Bring games people can congregate around and enjoy together, such as cornhole, card games, flip cup, and other classics.

7. Bring a Generator

There is nothing worse than a dead car battery at the end of a tailgating party. Avoid running your car dry by bringing along a small generator to power your electronics.

Discover More Tips for Fun and Entertainment

Did you find our tailgating tips useful? Don’t stop here! Get inspired and elevate your fun with our Travel and Entertainment articles.

Who knows? You might just be a few articles away from stumbling upon your next idea or adventure.