What to Wear to a Football Tailgate: Gameday Style Made Easy
A football tailgate isn’t just an event— it’s an experience. Lifelong memories and friendships are forged in stadium parking lots when people with a common interest gather for a tailgate. Stories are swapped and there’s always plenty to eat and drink. Some fans have elaborate recipes they make on gameday to entertain their football friends. Since a tailgate is really a party, you want to look and feel your best. Below are some tips for how to dress and what to bring for a tailgate.
Tailgate Outfit Tips for Any Type of Weather
For a tailgate in Summer weather, you’ll want light, breathable, moisture-wicking clothes. Comfort and style should be a priority. For cold and rainy weather, you’ll need plenty of layers, some waterproof apparel, and warm, comfortable clothes. Tailgating is all about looking and feeling good while cheering for your team. Below are some tips for how to dress and what to bring to your next tailgate.
Sandals: A pair of stylish sandals with plenty of support should keep you comfortable even with a substantial amount of walking. The sandals should be lightweight with plenty of foam cushioning.
Boots: A pair of waterproof boots can keep your feet warm and dry. Look for a durable, comfortable, lightweight boot that’s good for walking.
Tops/Bottoms: Lightweight, stretchy, comfortable, T-shirts or shorts for your favorite college or pro team are always an option. If you don’t want to be so obvious about who you’re rooting for, wear the team colors. For cold weather, lightweight, stretchy baselayers are a good way to stay warm.
Sneakers: A pair of lightweight, breathable retro sneakers or casual tennis shoes that keep your feet cool is a good look for a sunny, hot day.
Sunglasses: A pair of durable sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays are a must for a warm, sunny day.
Hat: A moisture-wicking, stretchy, comfortable baseball-style cap is perfect for a warm, sunny day. If it’s cold outside, opt for a beanie. A waterproof bucket hat is great for a rainy day or even to block the sun on a warm day.
Water Bottle: If it’s warm and you’ll be outside eating, drinking and mingling with your friends, it’s a great idea to have your own water bottle. It should be sturdy and vacuum insulated to help keep your water cold.
Bag: A tote bag or backpack to carry extra stuff into the stadium that you might need, like snacks and extra clothing, is useful. The bag should be roomy and lightweight with a strap.
Sunscreen: A college football game typically lasts over 3 hours. Add in the pregame tailgating, and it can be a long day in the sun. Apply the sunscreen liberally and use at least SPF 50.
Lip Balm: Avoid cracked lips and stay comfortable with a good moisturizing lip balm.
Umbrella: Some stadiums won’t allow umbrellas inside but if they do using an umbrella or wearing a rain jacket is one of the best ways to stay dry.
There are many choices for how to dress and what to bring to a tailgate. The most important factor is that you’re comfortable because going to a football game, when you add driving time, the game length, and the tailgate, can be over an 8-hour day.
What to Bring to a Tailgate?
One of the most important items for a tailgate? Food and drinks and the accessories that accompany them. A tailgate is basically a party—big or small—depending on how many friends you have. Below is a checklist of items you might want to consider.
Grill: For a complete tailgate experience, you can bring your portable grill. There are plenty of options from something small and compact to a full-size grill. It depends on how ambitious you are and how much space you have in your vehicle to transport your grill.
Chairs: A set of portable lawn or folding chairs is a must if you don’t want to be on your feet all day. Chairs with cupholders are useful.
Table: An aluminum table that folds up is a place where you can put your food and drinks. The table should be compact and sturdy.
Silverware: Plastic silverware, plastic cups, and paper plates are a necessity if you're in charge of the tailgate. To make it efficient, you’ll want to throw away all your tableware after you clean up.
Cooler: You’ll need a cooler filled with ice to keep your drinks cold.
Speaker: A wireless speaker to play your favorite tunes is a great way to ramp up the party vibe.
Frisbee/Football: Almost every pro or college football parking lot in America has someone tossing a frisbee or a football. It’s a good way to get some extra exercise before the game starts.
Portable Charger: Everyone has a cell phone. Bring one to make sure you can charge your phone if your battery runs out of life.
Don’t Do This at a Tailgate
There are some guidelines for tailgating etiquette. Below are some tips for beginners.
Stay Put: It’s easy to walk around and find other places to visit and other things to do before a big football game. Don’t abandon your friends and family if you’re tailgating. Your job is to mingle and connect with the people who are enhancing your gameday experience.
Don’t Overdress: It’s not a Halloween party; it’s a football game. You don’t want to be a distraction and wear outlandish fan gear. Of course, you can dress in team colors but make it low key.
Clean Up: Don’t forget to help put away chairs and tables and clear out garbage. A tailgate is a lot of work. Make sure you stick around to help put stuff away.
To simplify your tailgate, you can always buy food and bring it. Don’t get overwhelmed with the amount of work it takes. Ask friends and family to bring some food or drinks or some item that adds comfort. It takes a group effort to have a successful tailgate.