Tailgating in an RV is one of the best ways to enjoy the sports or racing seasons. Whether it’s a home game or away, we can all agree that RVs tend to take things to the next level! Many people only associate tailgating with football, but RV tailgating is much more than that — it’s a lifestyle. NASCAR has quite the tailgating scene as well, and tailgating at a race is a thrilling community event. With the sound of cars racing by, the smell of rubber on the pavement, and the excitement that only comes with speed and competition, it should be no surprise that an RV tailgate party would be part of the environment, too.
Tailgating in an RV means you have all the amenities and comforts of home. Here’s how to use your RV to amp up your next tailgating event.
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ToggleTips for Your RV Tailgate
Regarding RV tailgating, the only real rule is to have fun. However, here are a few tips to remember to achieve that goal.
- Check ahead. You’ll want to call or check online to ensure that the stadium/arena allows RVs and understand any parking costs. You may be charged extra for needing more space than a regular vehicle.
- Get there early. Depending on the size of your RV, you might need to take up a few spots, so arriving a few hours before the crowds is an absolute must. While you wait for other tailgaters to arrive, you’ll have the comforts of home to do whatever you choose to pass the time.
- Choose a great spot. Avoid areas in the parking lot that attract crowds, such as the port-a-potties or entrances. Try to find a spot near the grass so you can have extra space to spread out. It’s also helpful to be near trash cans for convenient clean-up when the party is over.
- Meal plan. There are tons of great camping recipes for tasty tailgating food! Plan ahead so you have all the ingredients you need, and be sure to bring extra because – the smell will likely attract visitors. The fun of tailgating is meeting other fans, and it’s always nice to have plenty of extra food to offer.
- Decorate your RV. Show your spirit by creating a flag, window paint, streamers, and balloons representing your team. After all, tailgating is essentially the pregame leading up to the main event. It’s fun to upgrade your RV to show your team spirit before the game is officially underway.
Items to Bring For RV Tailgating
While you’ll likely have everything you need in your RV, there are a few items to stock up on before you begin tailgating. Doing so ensures that you’ll not only enjoy the experience yourself but that everyone around you will too. Plus, when you have that one thing everyone is looking for, you’ll be the real MVP.
- Folding chairs
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and insect repellent
- Ponchos, towels, and umbrellas in case of rain (although you can escape inside the RV, not everyone will)
- Outdoor games for fun and to help pass the time (cornhole, a frisbee, a football, etc.)
- Plenty of food, snacks, and beverages
- A cooler full of ice for drinks or extra food storage space
- Your fan attire (jersey, face paint, foam finger, etc.)
- A portable grill
- Trash bags. If you can’t find a proper way to dispose of trash at the site, pack it up and take it with you.
- A table and tablecloth to set out the food.
How To Use Your RV for Tailgating
The RV Kitchen
Pack up the coolers, utensils, and condiments, and start dreaming up the ultimate tailgating menu. You can use your tailgating grill outside or use a gas oven range to bake inside — your meal and preparation options are nearly endless thanks to your RV’s indoor and outdoor kitchen setups.
The RV Bathroom
If you’ve tailgated before, you know how valuable having a personal RV bathroom nearby is. No more missing out on the fun while standing in line for 30 minutes at the port-a-potties. But beware of others wanting to use your RV bathroom, too. If you plan to allow it, have hand sanitizer available and a patio mat or rug so people don’t track mud, sand, or dirt on your RV flooring.
The RV as Shelter
You can bring the party inside when inclement weather crashes the parking lot party. Inside the RV, you’ll have a TV that allows you to watch other games before the big game starts. Many people even decide to watch the game from their RV versus buying expensive stadium tickets.
If this is the option you’re aiming for—it sounds like a winner—check out RV antennas. Camping World carries satellite antennas, local broadcast antennas, and plenty of other TV hookup essentials. Make your RV the ultimate entertainment hub.
Whether you’re a sports fan or not, tailgating is fun nonetheless. The tailgating party is often more entertaining than the game itself. With the comforts of home within reach and the game literally in your backyard, you’re able to get the best of both worlds. This guide aims to help you get your RV ready for game day — win or lose, an RV tailgate is always a great time.
Score more information about all things tailgating:
- 3 Things Every RV Tailgater Needs
- Camping World’s Gear Guide for the RV Tailgater in Your Life
- Must-Have Campfire Accessories
What do you enjoy most about RV tailgating? Tell us in the comments below!