There are tailgate parties, and then there are tailgate parties to remember. Good gear, impressive technology and the proper tools are all that separates a ho-hum fete (read: a bunch of guys standing around gnawing on cold buffalo wings and drinking tepid beer) from a pre-game bash that rivals the thrill of the big game itself.
Sure, buying a mini-kegerator and a portable LCD television may seem like too big of a splurge, but you’ve got to think about cost per use. When you factor in 16 games of regular season play—not to mention any post-season action—you won’t feel so bad about buying a special table where you’ll set plates of your famous brats. Plus, an iPod dock and a portable grill? You’ll use those long after the season has ended.
1. Portable LCD TV: Want to make sure you don’t miss the pre-game show or any other game-day action whilst swilling drinks in the stadium parking lot? This portable 7-inch television has a DC adapter for car use, but it also boasts six hours of battery use after charging. Add an antenna and you’ve got all the major networks and then some. 7-inch Class / 480i / 60Hz / Portable LCD TV, Insignia, $149.99, bestbuy.com.
2. On-the-Go Grill: With its non-stick, Teflon-coated griddle and 308 square inches of cooking surface, this grill might rival your old backyard standby. But it’s the folding wheel cart and light for nighttime grill mastery that really sets this outdoor cooker apart. Grill2Go Advantage Gas Grill, CharBroil, $189, walmart.com.
3. iPod Dock: Whether you want to set the mood with your game-day playlist or pick up your favorite sports radio show on one of 10 station presets, this portable boombox has you covered. Did we mention that the speakers deliver full stereo surround sound? miniMove Portable Boombox with Built-In Apple iPod Dock in Silver, Memorex, $47.49, bestbuy.com.
4. Game Ball: Nerf balls have no place at the ultimate tailgate party. You could opt for a cheaper version than this official leather football, but why not toss around the same ball used in NFL games? Official Size NFL “Duke” Leather Game Ball, Wilson, $79.99, dickssportinggoods.com.
5. Mini-Kegerator: It weighs 13 pounds, stands less than 15 inches tall and comes complete with temperature controls to ensure maximum drinkability. The best part? The included AC & DC power adapters make this 5-liter wonder ideal for tailgate party and RV application. Deluxe Mini-Kegerator & Draft Beer Dispenser, EdgeStar, $129, buy.com.
6. More than a Cooler: This ice chest has a certain MacGyver appeal. It’s not just a rolling cooler that holds more than four six-packs and ice, but it’s also a fold-out picnic table that comes complete with matching stools. We’re pretty sure that it will be the closest thing to a Transformer in attendance at your tailgate soiree. Multi-Function Rolling Cooler, Travelers Club, $47.95, walmart.com.
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Hmm, might have to visit Buy.com for that mini-kegerator