Car Prep

by David Kierski
03/08

Here are a few tips to keep your car nice and organized, and not looking like the parking lot the morning after the game.

Invest in Generator
In today's high-tech world, everything seems to need power running into it. Your car's batteries were never designed to power a fully-functioning tailgate, and keeping your car running to charge up the battery is bad for the environment and your lungs. Carbon monoxide burgers, anyone? Instead, we suggest investing in a gas-powered generator that is portable, quiet, and will last you through a day's worth of tailgating. If you don't want to get a generator, marine batteries dedicated to your tailgate might do the trick. If you feel you must use your car's battery to power your party, make sure you get the correct power inverter. Roadtripamerica.com has tips on how to choose the right inverter for your vehicle.

Consider making a "go bag" of all the essentials
If you are serious about tailgating you shouldn't be lugging the same stuff you use to grill at home back and forth to the stadium every week. If you've got an SUV or truck, you can get a permanent box installed, like the behind-the-cab toolbox you find in some pickup trucks. Once you've got your box, fill it with the crucial tailgating supplies you use every tailgate:

Grill
Charcoal
Utensils
Garbage Bags
Lighter Fluid
Disposable aluminum pans
Aluminum Foil
Paper goods - (Paper towels, napkins, cups, plates, plasticware, etc.)
Chairs
Canopies
1st Aid Kit

Carry a first Aid Kit
This is a must-have that you also hope is a never-use. You can buy a quality first-aid kit for under $50, or you can make your own for the same price that will be better equipped. See our article on page 54 od Issue 2 for help stocking your very own first aid kit. Keep one stowed in the glove box or under the seat and know that you'll be prepared to handle common scrapes, cuts and burns.

Trick Her Out
Make your car a rolling statement of who you support. You can find all kinds of items to make your car a bona fide mascot. You can get custom license plates, team flags, team banners, or you could even give your car one of those full body paint jobs to declare your love for your team year round.