I know it may seem early for many of you - after all football season is still months away. But tailgating isn't just for football. Everyone from race fans, to baseball fans, to offroad clubs tailgate, and great tailgating doesn't just happen. You have to plan for it. During the next few weeks I'll help you get ready.
Be prepared, you'll probably have some shopping to do (even before you buy food), but along with the growth of tailgating has come a wide range of products at prices for everyone from the college student to the CEO. If you have trouble finding what you're looking for, you'll find links to several tailgating suppliers at www.theultimatetailgater.com.
Now, let's start with the centerpiece of your tailgate set-up: the grill. Just as you wouldn't build a home without a kitchen, you can't build the ultimate tailgate party without a grill.
Your first decision is a basic one, but an important one. Charcoal or gas? Which is also to ask, flavor or convenience? This isn't as easy a decision as you might think, and it's one that's pitted brother against brother for generations (okay, for a couple of generations since the first gas grills were unveiled in 1939).
Many tailgaters and backyard chefs will tell you food from a charcoal grill has more flavor and just tastes better. They cook hotter and make it easy to smoke foods. But you have to keep an eye on the coals and they are messy. Plus, you have to deal with the ashes - and tossing them on the grass or in the parking space next to you isn't how you do that.
Charcoal grills are also budget-friendly. While some of the larger ones with wheels and such can cost a few hundred dollars, a small, basic charcoal grill is less than $50. But before buying, be sure it is sturdy and well constructed. You shouldn't be able to easily dent the metal and make sure the legs are securely attached. You'll want to make sure the unit you buy has vents (so you can control your heat), and if you smoke foods look for one with a front-loading, hinged grill gate.
Setting up at your tailgate party may also play a part in your decision. Charcoal grills take some time and nurturing to get from cold to ready-to-cook. The coals have to heat up and you have to keep stoking them to keep the fire alive.
Gas grills, on the other hand, take next-to-no set-up, start with the push of a button, and a standard propane tank will last about 20 hours. It's easy to keep your heat consistent, and when you're done just turn it off.
You can even buy gas grills that attach to your vehicle, leaving more room inside your vehicle for food and supplies, or people. These grills also lock-down when you go inside the stadium so you don't have to worry about leaving enough time for your grill to cool-off before putting it in the car.
When shopping for a gas grill look for one that has at least two heat zones for indirect cooking (important when cooking foods like ribs on any grill), a built-in temperature gauge, and an easy to clean drip pan. Of course, look for sturdy construction and a good warranty, too.
Next: Must Have Grilling Tools
Stephen Linn is the author of The Ultimate Tailgater's Handbook and The Ultimate Tailgater's Travel Guide: More Than 20 Great Road Trips which are the ultimate how-to resources for the tailgater who wants to do it all, have it all, and host the best party in the parking lot. Learn more and watch his how-to tailgating videos at www.theultimatetailgater.com.
