More Tailgating Tips from Men's Health Magazine

1.  Pick a primary and backup Tailgating location long before game day.  To do this, you’ll need to get familiar with the Tailgating parking lots around the Dome.  A good way to do this is walk thru the lots at an earlier game.  You know the size, likes, and dislikes of your Tailgating group, so look for good places to setup your party based on your unique requirements.  Write down parking lot names or nearby street names for future reference.   

2.  Plan your menu and do your prep work a day or two before the game.  Keep the menu simple.  Pack prepared food in disposable bags and containers.

3.  Make a list of all items you want to take along, and check off each item as you pack it.  Be sure your list contains trash bags, bottled water, paper towels, toilet paper, and baby wipes.  Other items to consider are a small first-aid kit, folding chairs, and blankets.  Game items like footballs and washers will add to your fun.  Bring your camera!  

4.  Pack paper and plastic items (plates, napkins, towels, forks, spoons, etc.) the night before.  Pack perishable items on game day.

5.  Use two coolers – one for drinks and ready-to-eat foods, and one for raw meats.  Pack foods in reverse order so that the last ones packed will be the first ones used.

6.  Wear Rams colors!  If the weather is cold, dress warmly but layer your clothing.  Changes in weather are very common.  Use a windbreaker as an outer layer.  In cold weather, don’t forget a hat or headband to keep ears warm, and gloves or mittens.  In wet weather, wear appropriate shoes.  Wet running shoes are very comfortable.

7.  Carry a cell phone with you at all times.  Make sure the battery is charged.  Give your cell phone number to everyone planning to attend your Tailgate Party.  If they can’t find you, they can call for directions.   

8.  Drive to your primary Tailgating location.  Plan to arrive at least 3 to 4 hours before game time.  The best Tailgating spots fill up quickly.  Use your backup location if needed.

9.  Decorate your Tailgate site in Rams colors.  Rams flags, banners, blankets, etc will make your Rams alliance easily visible to other Tailgaters.

10. Toss your football to neighboring Tailgaters.  It’s a great way to meet them. Challenge them to a game of washers.   

11. Have your food cooked 1 to 2 hours before game time.  This should give you enough time to eat, clean up, and walk to the Dome.

12. Take lots of pictures of your Tailgating experience.  Email your best photos to: ramstailgating@yahoo.com

13. Make sure your firewood or charcoal is COLD before disposing of it.  Many experienced Tailgaters let their grills cool off during the game, and then dispose of the ashes after the game.