Spending time in a stadium parking lot on game day, you'll quickly see two extremes. On one side, you have the setup that’s a whirlwind of chaos—fumbling for forgotten bottle openers, digging through disorganized coolers, and constantly searching for that one missing utensil. Then you look over, and you see a base camp that just works. The host is calm, the grill is hot, and friends are relaxing because everything has its place and purpose.
Achieving that seamless experience isn't about having the biggest vehicle or the most expensive gear; it’s about preparing. Tailgating is a craft, and like any craft, succeeding comes from having a solid blueprint and the right tools for the job.
Whether you’re rolling in with a travel trailer or setting up a command post from the back of an SUV, the goal is the same: creating a memorable game day experience. This is the ultimate guide to building that legendary base camp, proving that with the right gear and a little know-how, anyone can win the day before the first whistle blows.
The Universal Truths – Gearing Up for Every Playbook
They say a great tailgate is 80% planning and 20% execution, and that prep work starts long before you leave the driveway. The secret is relying on smart, portable gear that provides that "big setup" feel and functionality without needing a big vehicle to transport it all. Let's break down the absolute must-haves for your tailgating toolkit.
- The MVP Grill: The grill is the undeniable heart of the operation. Camco’s Olympian Grill (58155) prioritizes portability without sacrificing performance. Its durable stainless-steel construction means it can handle the bumps of travel and is easy to clean. Just connect it to a 1 lb. disposable propane bottle, and you're good to go.
- The Atmosphere Creator: A great tailgate is more than just food; it’s about setting the vibe. The Big Red Campfire provides the warm, mesmerizing glow of a real campfire without the smoke, ash, or safety concerns of a live wood fire in a crowded lot. It’s a social magnet, an instant gathering point where people can warm their hands and hang with their fellow tailgaters.
- The Fun Addition: The perfect companion to any campfire is a set of Camco’s Extendable Roasting Forks (44015). They are ideal for an impromptu session of roasting s'mores, providing a fun, interactive activity for all ages.
The RV Advantage – Your Home Field Headquarters
When you bring your home-on-wheels to the game, you’re playing in a whole different league. Having a full kitchen allows for more complex food prep, a microwave for reheating, and a sink for actual handwashing—a luxury in a parking lot. And a private bathroom? Total game changer.
Setting Up Your RV Base Camp:
- Early Bird Gets the Spot: Start by arriving early to scout an area that not only fits, but also allows you to fully extend your slide-outs and awning without crowding on your neighbors.
- Creating the "Patio": Extend your living space outward. A Camco Outdoor Mat (42865) immediately marks your territory, provides a clean surface, and drastically reduces the amount of dirt tracked inside.
- Setting the Mood: To boost the vibe, especially as the sun gets lower, use Camco Party Light Hangers to easily string up lights along the awning. It’s a simple touch that transforms a parking spot into a private lounge.
The Lean Machine – Winning from a Car, Truck, or SUV
The car-based tailgater thrives on efficiency, portability, and smarts. The philosophy is simple: every piece of gear should be easy to pack, simple to set up, and serve a clear purpose.
- Pre-packed "Tailgate Box”: Your tailgating superpower? A pre-packed "tailgate box"—a plastic tub with all your non-perishable essentials: tongs, spatula, meat thermometer, spices, foil, paper towels, trash bags, and bottle opener.
- Creating Your Shelter: A 10’ x 10’ pop-up canopy is your best friend, instantly providing a defined, sheltered space. Make sure to have weights for anchoring the legs—gallon jugs of water work perfectly and can be emptied before you leave.
- Upgrading Your Cold Storage: Say goodbye to the hassle of buying ice and dealing with soggy food and hello to the Camco Portable Refrigerator. Unlike a traditional cooler, this unit plugs directly into your vehicle’s 12V outlet, providing consistent, reliable cooling. The best part is the dual-zone functionality, which lets you have both a refrigerator and a freezer section running at the same time. This means you can keep drinks perfectly chilled on one side while keeping your burgers and hot dogs frozen solid on the other, all without a single cube of ice taking up precious space.
- Bringing the Power: Worried about running out of juice? Don't be. A portable power station or a power inverter that connects to your car battery can keep phones charged and a speaker playing all day long.
Beyond the Basics – Pro-Level Details That Win the Day
Once you have the fundamentals covered, you can focus on the small details that elevate your tailgate from simply good to truly legendary.
- Create a Self-Serve Hydration Station: While a cooler of cans is standard, setting up a designated drink spot frees you from playing bartender. A large, insulated beverage dispenser filled with iced tea, lemonade, or a pre-mixed batch cocktail is a fantastic touch. Don’t forget to have a stack of cups, a bucket of ice, and a marker for people to write their names on their cups!
- Build an Awesome Playlist: This is essential but so is being a good neighbor. Keep the volume at a respectable level that enhances your space without overwhelming the tailgates next to you. In case of spotty cell service in a crowded lot, it’s a pro move to have playlists downloaded and to have a tablet with pre-downloaded pre-game shows or highlights ready to go.
The Honorable Exit – Leaving No Trace
The game clock may run out, but the job of a tailgate master isn't finished until the site is spotless. This principle applies to everyone. Being a pro means making cleanup part of the plan from the very beginning.
Your Cleanup Kit:
- A Designated Cleanup Station: Create a dedicated waste station with Camco's Pop-Up Utility Container. It pops open, stands on its own, and is sturdy enough to serve as the ultimate portable trash can when lined with a heavy-duty bag. Set one up for trash and another for recycling. It prevents overflow and keeps things tidy.
- Essential Supplies: Pack a roll of paper towels, disinfecting wipes for the table, and a small dustpan and brush for any ground spills.
- The Final Walkthrough: Once packed, do a final sweep of your area to make sure nothing is left behind. This is about respecting the venue and your fellow fans.
More Than a Game
From the shared passion for your team, to the simple pleasure of enjoying good food with good people, tailgating is a tradition that unites us all.
Creating a successful tailgate comes from having the right plan powered by the right tools. It’s about taking pride in the process and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. So, study your playbook, pack your cooler, grab your gear, and get ready to build your own game day legend. The victory celebration starts now.
Happy tailgating!
