Frugal Tailgating

Once a little discussed ritual, tailgating has become mainstream and in this economy, frugal tailgating is essential. Web sites, sports networks, books and more all tout this fun pre-game event. It is a wonderful cross between a picnic and a BBQ only it usually takes place in a paved parking lot.

As so often happens, keeping up with the Jones’ has impacted tailgating. Bigger, better, more and more expensive has replaced the former simple traditional tailgating fare. There are fancy decorations even fancier equipment. Some tailgate hosts succumb to the pressure and buy expensive foods. Some have even have the event catered,

No need.

Great tailgating doesn’t mean leaving frugality and quality back at the home stead. A little planning is all one needs to score with food and fans. Here are six simple steps to score.

Step 1: MAKE A GAME PLAN
Frugal people understand planning is the key. Tailgating is no different. So step back, take some notes, mull it over and come up ideas that work for you. Then assign tasks. Everyone involved should bring a dish, beverages or other task. Cost is split, but more importantly everyone participates, everyone enjoys. A master checklist is always a good idea and keeps things on track.

Step 2: SPECIAL TEAMS
Creating the menu is part of the Game Plan, but it is also a step unto itself. Create a  theme, make it special. Perhaps design a game specific menu. One idea is base the menu on team locations. Kansas City barbecue or Philadelphia cheese steaks would be two examples. Another idea is to present a new BBQ idea. If hunting or hunters are in your group, fresh deer or moose would impress. Make the day memorable so matter what the score is in the game, the Special Teams scored.

Step 3: BULK UP
Many ingredients on the menu can be found at warehouse clubs or bought in bulk. Chips, soda, non-perishables, all can be purchased for less if shopped in advance and with a budget in mind. The same goes for meats. This is where planning really comes into play. If planned with time, getting deals at supermarkets or butcher’s markets and even warehouse stores can save substantial amounts of our favorite green stuff.

Step 4: KEEP YOUR COOL
Assuming all the pieces are meshing, game day will soon arrive. Now it is time to pack. Bring two coolers. One filled with drinks (water, beer and juice) the other is ice-filled for the perishables. TIP: don’t put the coolers inside trunks. Trunks can get awfully hot, some as high as 150º. That temperature that can ruin food. Use a passenger seat inside the car instead. Put non-perishables in the trunk.

Step 5: BAKE, DON’T BUY
With the menu planned and tasks assigned, this should give the host time to bake desserts. Buying goodies at stores is always more costly, but baking brownies or cupcakes and even cookies is an inexpensive way to top off a great meal. One tip you’ll hear many times, use food coloring to tint frosting in your team’s colors. It’ll keep you in the spirit and satisfy that sweet tooth.

Step 6: DISH THE DECORATIONS
Team themed decorations are necessary. They are usually over priced and mostly hit the recycle or trash bin after the event. Instead stock up party basics like table coverings, napkins, plates and cups in solid colors at the dollar store or one of those party stores. A truly crafty host will be searching for these items all year long. Then they’ll catch a sale and really score.

With just a few easy steps and a little forethought, tailgating can be fun and frugal.


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