Tailgate Like You Mean It: Your Game Day Stock-Up Guide

Aug 21, 2025

Whether you're rallying in a stadium parking lot or bringing the tailgate party to your backyard, tailgating is more than just a pre-game ritual—it’s a sport of its own. And like any sport, success comes down to preparation. This season, we’re here to help you Tailgate Like You Mean It with a game plan that covers all your food, drinks, and fan-favorite essentials.

Step 1: Stock the Cooler (and a Backup Cooler)

No tailgate is complete without cold drinks ready to go. Start by filling one cooler with fan favorites like Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar—because game day calories are best spent on burgers, not beverages. For the ultimate hydration assist, load up a second cooler with POWERADE® and BODYARMOR® Sports Drinks to keep your crew cool and energized, especially during those early-season scorchers.

And don’t forget the essentials for the adults in the crowd—Busch Light® is a crisp, easy-drinking classic that pairs perfectly with grilled brats and cheering from the sidelines.

Step 2: Pack Like a Pro (Food Game Strong)

Tailgating is all about easy-to-eat, shareable bites. Here's what should be in your grocery game plan:

  • Grillables: Burgers, brats, chicken wings—pre-seasoned and ready to sizzle.
  • Snack Stack: Chips, pretzels, and grab-and-go veggie trays.
  • Portable Sides: Think pasta salad, coleslaw, and baked beans in spill-proof containers.
  • Condiment Kit: Pack ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, and pickles in Ziploc® containers to avoid messy spills in the cooler.

Step 3: Gear Check (Tailgate MVP Kit)

Be the friend who thought of everything. Double-check these game-day essentials:

  • Folding chairs and a pop-up tent (shade = critical)
  • Portable grill with extra propane or charcoal
  • Serving trays, napkins, and trash bags (you’ll thank yourself later)
  • Bluetooth speaker for the ultimate pre-game playlist

Step 4: Hydrate Between High-Fives

With the mix of sun, excitement, and salty snacks, hydration is key. Keep a rotation of POWERADE® and BODYARMOR® drinks on hand—not just for the athletes, but for every fan in your squad. They’re packed with electrolytes to keep you going strong until kickoff (and beyond).

Step 5: Keep It Cold, All Day Long

Nobody likes a warm beer or a tepid soda. Rotate fresh ice in your coolers every few hours and consider a smaller, separate cooler just for drinks in high demand (looking at you, Busch Light® and Coke Zero®).

Final Pro Tip: Plan for the Post-Game

Victory or not, you’ll want to have a stash of BODYARMOR® Lyte or POWERADE® Zero on hand for the ride home—it’s the hydration hero you didn’t know you’d need after hours of sun, cheering, and celebratory snacks.


Ready to Tailgate Like You Mean It?

Stop by your local IGA and stock up on all the essentials—from coolers of Coke Zero® to grillside favorites and everything in between. Game day is waiting. Let’s do this right.

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