We love football, and not just because of what happens on the field. An awesome tailgate can take game day to the next level. Here’s how you and your crew can rule the parking lot.

The Essentials

• Cover up. A canopy is key. Without it, you’re not really tailgating. You’re just eating and drinking out of your trunk. The canopy completes the picture. Great for shade or protection from rain and snow, you can even get one with your favorite team’s logo.
• The little things. It’s easy to forget the basics—don’t make that rookie mistake. Bring extra trash bags, food storage items, and a container for that spent charcoal.
• Beer, Ice, and Coolers. You can never have too much, but remember to enjoy responsibly.
• Smart seating. Collapsible and lightweight camp chairs are the way to go.
• A great grill. An old-school charcoal kettle or a cutting-edge portable gas grill are excellent picks for cooking pregame burgers, brats, and dogs.
• A plan. Tailgating is like football: Preparation can make or break you. Find out where tailgating is allowed at the stadium, how early can you get there, whether there are restrictions on open containers or grills, where the bathrooms or Porta-Potties are, and what you’re supposed to do with your trash. A little research up front will keep the party stress-free on game day.

The Next Level

• Tune in. Check out all the other games while you get ready for the main event. Fire up a portable generator (sporting-goods stores carry models for camping, which are lightweight and relatively quiet). If you’ve got a satellite subscriber in the group, bring the receiver from home and set up a portable dish. No satellite? No problem. An antenna is a cheap option that will provide local broadcast stations. Or fire up your laptop.
• Eat great. Yes, it’s fantastic if somebody in your group is a gourmet. That tends to attract people and keep the party happy. But you can achieve a similar effect even without big chef skills. Like: Spice up that brat with some easy peppers and onions. Just chop up a couple of green peppers and onions, wrap them in a foil pouch with a couple tablespoons of butter, then grill for seven minutes, turning frequently. That amazing smell will permeate the parking lot. Or give your basic bun a boost by going with crusty ciabatta. It sounds exotic, but it’s simple. Just buy it at your grocery store or bakery, brush it with oil, and grill it for a minute or two for more flavor. And don’t forget, everything’s better with bacon. Grill some on an old sheet pan (without nonstick coating). Add it to any sandwich for an immediate flavor bonus.
• Share it. Tailgating is about fun with friends. And at the best tailgate parties, you’re among tons of buddies. Tip: Don’t just bring enough food and Bud Light® for your crew. Bring enough to share with your neighbors—always—and get ready to have an awesome time with your new pals.
• Turf time. Put your friends on the field with an artificial-turf mat.

The Ultimate

At every tailgate, there are groups that blow everybody’s mind. You know the type: Incredible vehicle, Great party, Innovative Team Support. It’s all about creating the best vibe in the lot. You can be those guys. The No. 1 way to reach that level? Rent an RV. Get the crew to chip in and you can keep the cost below $100 each for a true Thursday-to-Sunday football weekend, with some huge tailgating benefits: fridge, toilet, shower, and a place to sleep—need we say more? Ask for one with a generator.