What to Pack for a Perfect Austin Tailgate Setup
Ah, the sweet smell of barbecue, the roar of the crowd, and the electricity of game day in Austin - it can only mean one thing: it's tailgating season! If you're getting ready to cheer on the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, you'll want to make sure you have the ultimate tailgating setup to kick the day off right.
As an Austin local and seasoned tailgater, I've got the inside scoop on packing the perfect tailgate for a Longhorns game. Whether you're hosting a small group of friends or throwing a full-blown party, these are the must-have items you'll want to have on hand.
The Essentials: Seating, Shade, and Sustenance
No tailgate is complete without a comfortable spot to set up camp. Bring along some sturdy folding chairs or a pop-up canopy to create your own little oasis in the sea of burnt orange. And don't forget the cornhole boards - this classic Texas tailgating game is a must for keeping everyone entertained before kickoff.
Of course, you'll also want to make sure you've got plenty of food and drinks to fuel the festivities. Pack a cooler stocked with your favorite beverages, from ice-cold Tito's Handmade Vodka cocktails to crisp Austin-brewed beers from spots like Austin Beerworks. And don't forget the snacks - a spread of Stubb's BBQ brisket, sausage, and all the fixin's will have your fellow Longhorn fans lining up at your tailgate.
| Item | Why You Need It | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Folding Chairs | Comfortable seating for you and your guests | Academy Sports + Outdoors |
| Pop-Up Canopy | Provides shade and shelter from the Texas sun | Costco |
| Cooler | Keeps your drinks and snacks perfectly chilled | Dick's Sporting Goods |
| Cornhole Set | A classic tailgating game to keep everyone entertained | The Home Depot |
Setting the Scene: Decorations and Accessories
Once you've got the essentials covered, it's time to add some flair to your tailgate setup. Break out the burnt orange and white streamers, hang up some Longhorns flags, and don't forget the inflatable mascot - Hook 'em, Horns!
For a next-level tailgating experience, consider renting a Longhorn Charter Bus to transport your whole crew in style. And if you really want to make a statement, reserve a prime spot at the Fairmont Austin or Brazos Hall for a tailgate party you'll never forget.
The Party Essentials: Music, Games, and Entertainment
No tailgate is complete without a killer playlist to get the energy going. Make sure you've got a portable speaker on hand to blast your favorite fight songs and pump-up jams. And don't forget the party games - in addition to cornhole, you'll want to have a few other activities to keep your guests entertained, like beer pong, ladder ball, or giant Jenga.
If you really want to take your tailgate to the next level, consider hiring a DJ or booking a live music performance from a local Austin artist. The Oasis on Lake Travis is a popular spot for pre-game entertainment, with stunning views of the city skyline.
The Final Touches: Gear and Accessories
Now that you've got the big-ticket items covered, it's time to round out your tailgating setup with all the little extras. Don't forget to pack your burnt orange and white face paint, foam fingers, and Longhorns apparel to show your team spirit. And make sure you've got a portable phone charger on hand to keep your game day photos and social media posts flowing all day long.
For a truly stress-free tailgating experience, consider enlisting the help of Party On Delivery to handle the details. From cooler delivery to premium beverage service, they'll make sure your Austin tailgate is the envy of the whole stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time should I arrive at the stadium for tailgating?
A: Most Longhorns fans start setting up their tailgate 2-3 hours before kickoff. This gives you plenty of time to get your spot, set up, and start the festivities. Just be sure to leave enough time to get through security and find your seats before the game starts.
Q: Can I bring my own alcohol to a UT tailgate?
A: Absolutely! As long as you're of legal drinking age, you're welcome to bring your own beer, wine, and liquor to enjoy at your tailgate. Just be sure to follow all university rules and regulations, and drink responsibly.
Q: Do I need to reserve a tailgating spot?
A: While you don't necessarily need to reserve a spot, it's a good idea to arrive early to claim a prime location, especially for big games. The university offers various tailgating lots and packages, or you can look into renting a private event space like Brazos Hall for your tailgate.
Q: What's the best way to transport all my tailgating gear?
A: For a hassle-free game day, consider renting a Longhorn Charter Bus to shuttle you and your crew to the stadium. They can handle all the logistics of loading up your gear, so you can focus on enjoying the tailgate.
Conclusion
Ready to elevate your tailgating experience? Explore our tailgate party packages, cooler delivery, and premium beverage service for UT football tailgates in Austin and let Party On Delivery handle the details. With the perfect setup and all the right essentials, you're sure to have an unforgettable day cheering on the Longhorns. Hook 'em!
This article is part of our comprehensive The Ultimate Guide to UT Football Tailgating in Austin. Explore the full guide for more tips and resources.
Allan Henslee
Founder & CEO of Party On Delivery, helping Austin celebrate in style since 2023.