Plan the Maximum Tailgate Party with Your Ford Truck

1. Prepping for the Win

Forget about sweaty summer with endless lines at water parks full of screaming kids - fall is where it's at. We're talking crisp air, crisp beverages, football, and everyone's favorite activity - tailgating. You've cast envious looks at folks that seem to have epic tailgate parties at your local stadium, and obviously, you're ready to get in on the fun. It all starts with proper prep, so you'll want to arrive at least four hours before kickoff to give yourself plenty of time to get set up.

Another important tip for the host? Eat. Either before you get there or as soon as you set up, because consuming copious beers on an empty stomach is a good way to cut your fun short before halftime. This is a great opportunity to grill up some killer breakfast entrees, which is easily accomplished with a flat griddle. Whip up some pancakes and bacon/sausage and wrap 'em up like a sandwich. Throw eggs, meat, and veggies together on the skill and whip up some massive breakfast burritos. Either way, you'll be ready to soak up some cold ones with the boys in no time.

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2. Food Prep

Whatever you do, don't be the guy who rolls in with bags full of unprepped groceries. If you wind up forcing your friends into what feels like a cooking competition TV show, they probably won't come to your next tailgate. So before you arrive, prep everything that you possibly can. Slice up tomatoes, onions, and lettuce, put the toppings in separate containers, then place them in a big container so all you have to do is peel off the lid the day of the tailgate. 

Skewer and marinade meat kebabs the night before. Form your burger patties at home and layer them between sheets of wax paper. Put everything in its own disposable aluminum pan, cover it, and label it so you won't be fumbling around later to find stuff. If the forecast calls for chilly temps, load up things like soup and coffee in thermoses so they'll stay hot.

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3. Tools for Success

There's nothing worse than digging through a box full of cooking utensils trying to find the one thing you need. Especially if you've already consumed a few frosty beverages. Save yourself the time and frustration (and possibly a skewered finger) by organizing all of your cooking tools in a handheld toolbox before you head out. Place spatulas, bottle openers, tongs (two pairs, one for raw meat), and basting brushes in one compartment. Stuff another with trash bags, paper towels, wipes, sunscreen, and a couple of ponchos in case the weatherman was wrong about the forecast (again). Place sauces, spices, and seasonings in another drawer. Use an empty cardboard six pack carrier for bottles of ketchup and hot sauces.

Also, those plastic 3-drawer organizers sold at your local big box store make excellent tailgating organizers. Prepack them with things like cups, plates, can koozies, utensils, and rolls of paper towels. Stash the whole unit underneath your folding tables for easy access. Now you look like a true tailgating professional, instead of that guy everyone else quietly makes fun of down the row.

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4. Pack it Up

All the prep in the world won't do you any good if you don't follow proper food safety guidelines. Keep all of your perishable items refrigerated until you head out. When packing the cooler, make sure it's full so no warm air can find its way in. Use sealed containers to store food products, and keep raw meat and non ready-to-eat foods on the bottom to avoid contamination. For your drink coolers, keep beverages separated and label them so guests don't have to fumble through to find what they're looking for. Throw some frozen water bottles in there to double as ice and give you some cold refreshment after they melt.

Bring an extra propane tank or bag of charcoal, just in case. There's nothing worse than running out of fuel midway through cooking. If it's a windy day, position the front leg of charcoal grills so they're facing into the wind. This minimizes the wind entering the bottom vents, which makes your charcoal burn faster. If you're using a propane grill, turn it perpendicular to the wind or it will take more fuel to get the same heat.

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5. Finishing Strong

Now that everyone's full of food and adult beverages, it's time to pack up so you won't miss kickoff. Cleaning is always the worst part of any party, but you came prepared. You quickly scoop up all the dirty dishes and place them in a large plastic tub lined with a garbage bag. Dump still hot, or burning coals inside a metal bucket to avoid fires. 

Finally,tie a helium filled balloon to your truck so you can find it when you're trying to exit the stadium with tens of thousands of other people (or when your party goers are trying to find their way back from the bathroom). Instead of sitting in traffic for hours as everyone tries to escape following the game, plan on one last meal afterwards. You'll keep the party going a little longer and enjoy a clear drive home!

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For help with service of your truck, check out the how to section of Ford-Trucks.com