Score Big and Save: Tailgating Tips and Tricks for Budget-Friendly Game Days

Whether you’re a sports fan or just love good food and hanging out with friends, tailgating is a highlight of game day. But it can also get expensive — some tailgates cost over $200 on average, and lavish setups can hit $1,000 or more. 

The good news? With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy all the fun of tailgating while keeping costs manageable. 

Know the real cost of tailgating 💰 

According to Oddspedia, the average tailgate cost for four people is about $212. Across 30 cities, the average food cost for four football fans comes in at nearly $148. Add the average parking cost of $65, and a large tailgate party can easily break your budget. 

Where you tailgate also matters. SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles charges $160 for parking alone. When you consider local food and drink costs, a tailgate for four at a Rams/Chargers game is just over $300 — the highest in the country. 

Host the same tailgate at a Tennessee Titans game, and you’ll only pay $185, on average. 

Knowing where you’re tailgating can help you budget and plan smarter — and make mindful cuts to get those expenses down. 

Split the costs with friends 🤝 

Tailgating is more fun — and less expensive — when everyone pitches in. Sharing the cost of food, drinks, parking, and even games or tents makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the day. 

• Have friends bring their favorite yard games or activities.
• Divide the cost of group snacks, drinks, or parking passes.
• Encourage everyone to contribute something small (it adds variety and reduces pressure). 

Planning hacks 🗓️ 

A little planning goes a long way, and the right tools can help you save where it counts. 

• Digital planning: Shared shopping lists or group chat apps to coordinate contributions.
• Strategic timing: Buy food, drinks, or supplies when on sale or in bulk.
• Group buying: Pool resources for bigger items like tents, coolers, or grills. 

Equipment hacks 🪑

You don’t need expensive gear to tailgate like a pro. Smart equipment choices can save money and make your tailgate more organized and comfortable. 

• Repurposed household items: Storage bins, trays, and coolers.
• Modern cooling solutions: Ice packs or portable coolers. • Multi-functional storage: Folding tables or stackable bins save space.
• Budget-friendly tech: Portable chargers, speakers, or battery-powered fans. 

BYOB: Bring your own beverages 🍹 

Drinks are often the priciest part of a tailgate. Asking guests to bring their own keeps everyone happy and helps control costs. 

• Encourage guests to bring both an alcoholic and non-alcoholic option to share.
• Provide a cooler or shared drink station to keep things organized. 

Keep the menu simple 🌭 

You don’t need a complicated multi-course feast to impress. Traditional tailgating foods are crowd-pleasers that are easy to prepare with a basic grill, smoker, or crockpot. 

• Hot dogs
• Burgers
• Wings
• Chips and dips 

Consider time-saving strategies like batch cooking burgers and sides ahead of time — or setting up toppings and snacks buffet-style so guests can serve themselves. 

➢RELATED: 6 Tips to Host a Super Bowl Party on a Budget

Dress up the classics ✨ 

There are plenty of ways you can spin traditional menu items up into something new and even more delicious! 

Here’s my personal favorite you’ve got to try: 

1. Take a hot dog and slice it open lengthwise.
2. Stick an entire stick of string cheese into the hot dog.
3. Wrap the outside of the hot dog in bacon.
4. Smoke or grill it until the bacon is done and the cheese is melted.
5. Drizzle a little maple syrup or BBQ sauce on them for extra flavor. 

Smart parking and timing 🚗 

Paying for parking is one of the often-forgotten costs of tailgating. Depending on which stadium you’re visiting, you could pay $50 or more. 

• Arrive early to secure cheaper or free spots nearby.
• Consider carpooling to share costs and reduce stress.
• Scope out alternative parking options near the stadium. 

If you’re with a group, park one vehicle close to the stadium as the designated tailgate hub and have others use cheaper lots. Just remember to check the venue’s tailgating rules before you set up! 

Shop smart for groceries 🛒 

Where you shop can make a big difference in whether you stay on budget. 

• Choose affordable grocery chains or local discount stores, such as Aldi, WinCo, Costco, and Grocery Outlet.
• Buy in bulk when it makes sense.
• Prep items at home. For example, chop and assemble your own crudités instead of buying precut veggies or a premade tray. 

➢RELATED: Yes, You Can Eat Healthy on a Budget — Here’s How

Focus on games and fun 🎯 

Food is just one part of the tailgate. Yard games and activities make the day memorable without adding big costs. 

Here are a few of the best tailgating activities to try out: 

• Touch football
• Cornhole
• KanJam
• Pickleball with a portable net
• Spikeball
• Yard pong
• Ladder toss 

Share equipment and decorations 🚩 

Splitting the cost of chairs, canopies, or DIY decorations keeps expenses down and ensures everyone can participate. 

• Bring reusable plates, cups, and utensils to save money and reduce waste.
• Freeze water bottles to double as ice for coolers.
• Add simple DIY decorations for a festive atmosphere. 

Tailgating on a budget doesn’t mean missing out — these hacks make game day fun and affordable. 

Additional tailgating tips 

In addition to everything we’ve covered so far, here are a few more tailgating tips and tricks for the road: 

• Make a tailgating game plan several weeks in advance to give yourself time to shop sales, stock up on shelf-stable items, and prep in advance.
• Use versatile storage containers like plastic tubs, hampers, or toolboxes that can carry supplies to the tailgate and hold dirty dishes or trash on the way back.
• Opt for flexible seating by using your vehicle, coolers, mats, or blankets — and encourage guests to bring chairs or seat cushions. 

By using these tips and tricks, you can throw a tailgating experience that’s fun, memorable, and budget-friendly. 

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