Tailgate parties blend the great American loves of cars, football games, and outdoor cookouts. Planning the perfect tailgate party isn’t hard, especially when you’ve got these top ten essentials up your sleeve.

1. The grill

No tailgate party is complete without a grill but unless you’ve got space for your George Foreman in the back of your car, a portable grill is the way to go. These days, tailgaters are spoilt for choice as portable grills can be either gas-powered or charcoal burners and they come in different shapes, sizes, and even colors too. The best part? Getting one doesn’t have to break the bank as prices start from $30.

2. The cooler

A tailgate party isn’t a party unless you’ve got beer, and plenty of it, so remember to bring the cooler and don’t forget the ice. Large, sturdy chest coolers can do double duty as seats but if you’ve got limited space in the car, consider getting a soft cooler bag instead. Alternatively, waterproof, insulated canvas tubs like Igloo’s Party Tubs are collapsible and can hold up to 54 cans of beer.

3. The food

Burgers and chicken wings are always popular choices. Chips and dip make a great snack, and you can even sneak in some cucumber, carrot, and celery sticks to go with the dip if you want to make it healthier. It’s easiest if everyone contributes a dish or two, but make sure you coordinate it with your friends so you don’t end up with two apple pies.

4. The plates

Paper plates are essential for any good tailgate party. Get some plastic utensils while you’re at it, and remember the napkins. Bring plastic cups too.

5. The table

You’ve got to have somewhere to put all the food, so tables are a must. Lightweight, foldable tables are easily, and quite cheaply available, with prices starting from as low as $20. When in doubt, go for the larger table, as extra space is always best.

6. The music

Nothing gets a party going like music, so make sure you’ve got a collection of your favorite songs ready to go on your stereo. If you don’t think your car’s speakers are up to the challenge, turn up the beat with some portable speakers.

7. The canopy

Nobody likes a rained-out party so consider getting a canopy, tent or even a large beach umbrella. On sunny days, it’ll stop you from burning, and on rainy days, at least the food won’t get wet and the grill won’t be soggy.

8. The team spirit

Fly your team’s flag, wear a team jersey or even make the jello in your team colors. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you’re ready to cheer loud and proud for your team.

9. The safety

You never know what could go wrong, especially if you’ve got a hot grill going, so make sure you bring the first aid kit. Bring jumper cables too, just in case your battery goes flat after blaring music all day long.

10. The cleanup

Cleaning up isn’t the most popular part of a tailgate party, but it has to be done. Make sure you’ve brought extra large, heavy duty trash bags. If you’ve got a plastic stool, turn it upside down, fold the edges of the bag over the legs, and you’ve got a handy makeshift trashcan.

 – These tips provided by Psoh, freelance writer

Visit Blackhawk Hardware’s Grilling Department and see our selection of portable grills and supplies ideal for tailgating.