Even though summer is coming to an end, the transition to fall doesn’t mean your RV needs to go into storage immediately. Fall is one of the best times to go camping! Think of chilly mornings warming up around a campfire, hiking in comfy sweaters and scenic drives through miles of fall foliage. And there are many other ways to enjoy your RV this season, too. Like tailgating at sporting events! Football season is just kicking off and NASCAR is still running strong. Tailgating is a great way to bring friends and family together to cheer on your favorite teams.
There are a lot of things to consider and ways to prepare for tailgating in your RV. This article can help give insight into the rules and other things to know before setting up for game day. Plus, we’ve included activity ideas and even tasty recipes to enjoy for your next tailgate!
Table of contents
- Things to Know Before You Tailgate in an RV
- Other Ways to Prepare for RV Tailgating
- Other Activities to Do While Tailgating
- Best Types of RVs for Tailgating
Things to Know Before You Tailgate in an RV
Stadium Rules and Regulations for Tailgating in an RV
Before we can get to the exciting stuff of tailgating with an RV, we have to talk about the rules stadiums have for RVers. Every location has various rules that apply to tailgating, from restrictions on the size of the motorhome to what you can bring. It’s best to do your research before game day to avoid being turned away at the gate. Parking also varies at each stadium, so make sure you know where you need to go, whether or not you need a reservation and the earliest time you are allowed to park.
For example, the University of Michigan’s Big House has three RV parking locations. One of them is exclusive for season-ticket holders, while the other two are accessible on a first-come, first-served basis. All RV lots open five hours ahead of kickoff, and overnight parking is also prohibited at all RV lots.
Pro football stadiums also have different rules than college stadiums. The EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars in Florida, offers tailgating through their partner Tailgaters Parking. Tailgaters Parking has ample space for RV parking and allows overnight parking for added convenience. Parking spots for RVs are 40 feet long and 18 feet wide, so you’ll have plenty of room to set up your tailgating party here. The EverBank Stadium opens four hours before kickoff.
Arrive Early to Park Your RV & Plan Your Exit to Avoid Headaches
If you’re new to RV tailgating or still getting used to driving your motorhome, we recommend getting to the stadium as soon as the gates open. This means you’ll be able to park your RV without having to worry about crowds of people watching or maneuvering around lots of other RVs.
While it might seem like a small thing, being able to set up your tailgate party prior to game time gives you a big advantage. This is especially true if you bring a lot of gear to unpack and set up (like canopy tents or tables and chairs) or plan to prepare food once you’re on site. Arriving earlier gives you time to knock out these tasks before the kickoff, so you won’t miss a play or feel left out of the tailgating experience.
Lastly, make a plan for after the game. Some stadiums allow overnight parking for RVers, but others only allow tailgaters to stay for a few hours, so check the rules beforehand. If you’re planning to enjoy adult beverages during your tailgate party, make sure you have a designated driver so everyone gets home safely. Being mindful of these things can help make your tailgating parties go more smoothly.
Tips for Using Your RV without Hookups (aka Dry Camping)
Picture this. It’s game day. You’re at the stadium, parked in your reserved spot and are ready to start the party. You look around for an outlet to plug in your RV and there’s none to be found.
Most stadiums do not offer any sort of hookups for RVers. Some stadiums offer limited hookups or electrical-only hookups, but you’ll most likely be dry camping during tailgating events so make sure you are prepared.
You will certainly need your freshwater tank filled if you are preparing meals and washing your hands throughout the day. If you plan on using the bathroom in your RV –and let’s be honest, a private bathroom is much more appealing than a public port-a-potty – you’ll need to empty your black and gray water tanks, too. You will not have a place to fill or dump these tanks at the stadium. And if you leave the tailgate, odds are that you will not be able to get into another spot again to continue the festivities since these events are so packed.
If you’re planning to tailgate for the entire game (or longer), you don’t want to lose power to your TV or refrigerator. Generator or solar power options can solve your electricity needs when dry camping. Just be mindful of your exhaust vent if you’re using a generator and be sure to bring enough fuel for your needs.
Check out this blog post for more dry camping info and tips!
Other Ways to Prepare for RV Tailgating
Pack the Right Gear
We already discussed the importance of planning where to park for your tailgate party, but you’ll also want to be prepared in case your parking spot isn’t ideal. You may encounter unpaved or uneven parking spots. It’s always best to be prepared to park in various conditions. Bring standard leveling equipment like leveling blocks, wheel chocks and jack pads just in case. These are essential tools for any RV owner and provide added peace of mind.
Check the Weather
You may already have weather essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, blankets and rain jackets in your RV, but it is always best to double check before leaving home and prepare for the unexpected. If you do not have an awning on your RV, bring a pop up tent! This is a great alternative for keeping rain or even too much sun from ruining your tailgating experience.
Even if you need to go inside to escape the elements, you can still enjoy the tailgate. Most RVs have heating and cooling systems, a kitchen and TV inside so you can enjoy the game no matter the weather.
Feeding the Fans
Another great thing about owning an RV is that you have a kitchen everywhere you go! A lot of travel trailers and motorhomes have exterior kitchens so you can prepare food while still being part of the party. If you’re planning to host lots of family or friends at your tailgate, consider how much table space you’ll need. You may want additional folding tables for serving or seating. If you have an RV with plenty of storage space, it’s easy to pack extra folding tables and other essentials. Just make sure what you bring in is easy to take out (avoid heavy or bulky furniture).
It’s good practice to double check your meal prep plans before leaving home. Make a list of game day essentials like propane, charcoal, snacks, beverages and ice so no one has to make a run at half time. A lot of your favorite cooking tools for the perfect patty or hot dog are probably already in your camper, so utilize those to step up your tailgating party, too.
Another great tip from experienced tailgaters: Prep all the food that you can the night prior or in the morning before you leave for the tailgate. Marinate your meat and prepare some of the hardier snacks like homemade dips and sweet treats before you leave. Even though cooking is half the fun (for some people) at the tailgate, you don’t want to cook all day.
Best Foods for Tailgating
You’re in an RV with a kitchen, so why not use it! The best part of tailgating with an RV is that it’s your home on wheels and all the necessities are right at your fingertips for the perfect party. RV tailgating gives you the perfect excuse for making an endless variety of tasty eats.
Since you are at a tailgate, handheld foods are better for meals and snacks. They also cut down on the number of plates and utensils you’ll need. Hamburgers and hotdogs are always a game day favorite, but take a look at some of these other easy recipes perfect for tailgating. Pigs in a blanket or brisket are some other popular game day foods. On chillier days, fill a slow cooker with soups or your favorite chili to warm you up and keep the festivities going. On hot game days, ice cream and other chilled treats help beat the heat.
Other Activities to Do While Tailgating
One of the best reasons to tailgate is to hang out with other fans and celebrate your favorite sports teams. But you might want some other activities to fill the hours before and after the game with family and friends, like playing outdoor games. Yard games like cornhole, ladder ball and Frisbee are extremely popular at any tailgating event. Just be mindful of how much space you need with your outdoor games so you don’t disturb your neighbors. If you plan on bringing kids, simple toys like sidewalk chalk, water guns and card games are great to keep them busy.
Best Types of RVs for Tailgating
Space for you, family and friends is important if you plan to go tailgating in your RV. Features like a big living room or kitchen with tons of counter space will likely be at the top of your wish list. Additionally, RVs with big awnings and exterior kitchens plus entertainment centers make great tailgating RVs. Fortunately, you can find amenities like these in most types of RVs.
Best Class A Motorhome for Tailgating
Fleetwood RV Flair 29M
Fleetwood RV has completely redesigned its popular Flair Class A motorhomes to include a footprint encouraging quintessential culinary creations. It begins with the residential refrigerator in the galley and extends to the spacious solid-surface countertops with glass-covered range and microwave oven. Continuing to the exterior, an outside galley – complete with additional refrigerator, sink, microwave and storage – makes cooking al fresco easier than ever. You won’t miss a minute of the game with the exterior 50-inch TV and Bluetooth stereo system with exterior speakers. Inside, there’s sleeping space for up to eight, two additional TVs, soft-touch ceilings and under-cabinet lighting. Fantasy team owners will be happy to know that the Flair is equipped with USB ports throughout for easy device charging. Other highlights include pass-through storage, low-profile front cap, washer/dryer prep and a doggy/safety window.
Best Class C Motorhomes for Tailgating
Coachmen RV Entourage 330DS
The Entourage is Coachmen RV’s first Super C diesel motorhome and it’s packed with upscale amenities and comforts to meet your every need. The 90-degree wrap-around kitchen design features ample countertop space with extension, a residential-style over-the-range convection microwave and a 10 cubic-foot refrigerator with a pantry. The J-Lounge dinette with extension and dual power recliners provide the ultimate entertainment space. The party continues outside with the exterior entertainment center under the large awning. The mandatory Icon Package also includes auto generator start with dual batteries, 50 amp service, a 200-watt solar panel with a 30 amp controller, a tankless water heater and more.
Best Class B Motorhomes for Tailgating
Grech RV Strada-Ion Lounge
The Strada-Ion, Grech RV’s flagship luxury Sprinter van is the perfect complement to the Mercedes-Benz marque. The Strada exemplifies what a luxury Class B motorhome should be with remarkable quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Grech RV’s lithium-ion battery energy storage system provides clean and quiet lithium-ion-based energy that will power your entire Strada Class B motorhome. With seating for up to nine people, the Strada is perfect for carpooling to the big game. The Grech RV Strada is built on the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter all-wheel drive chassis with a 4-cylinder diesel high output engine and 9-speed automatic transmission.
Best Toy Haulers for Tailgating
Forest River RV Salem FSX 30VCVIEW
Not many can beat the comfort and convenience of a Forest River RV Salem FSX toy hauler travel trailer. The 1,500-pound rear patio with a three-season door leads to the garage area. Inside, theater seating with a chaise lounge sit across from a movie projector with surround sound. The kitchen features a dual-swinging 12-volt refrigerator, cooktop with microwave and a kitchen island with counter extension. The set of bunk beds have their own privacy with a secret door and a bike door for exterior access. The full bathroom sits in front of the private king bedroom with a Versa tilt bed, wardrobes on either side and a bonus wardrobe for additional storage.
Best Fifth Wheels for Tailgating
Forest River RV Impression 282RLVIEW
Experience a home away from home with the Impression 282RLVIEW fifth wheel by Forest River RV. The rear sectional sleeper sofa has theater seating by the entertainment center with a 55-inch TV. Next to the entertainment center is a hidden door leading to a secret room with a flip-down bunk and storage space. The kitchen has plenty of countertop space and an island with four bar stools, a 16 cubic-foot refrigerator, overhead cabinets and a pantry. The open floor plan provides a spacious feel while the 24-foot awning keeps you protected from the elements or the sun when the party moves outside.
Best Travel Trailers for Tailgating
Keystone RV Outback 342CG
Keystone RV Outback luxury travel trailers are designed for those who like to travel in comfort and style. The front bunk area doubles as storage or an office when the bunks are flipped up. The 56-inch side ramp door with an extension allows for wheelchair access through the front bunk area. A barn slider door leads into the main living and kitchen area featuring a theater pullout sofa and booth dinette, plus a 50-inch HDTV with a fireplace below. The three-burner gas range, 21-inch Furrion stove, 10 cubic-foot refrigerator and pantry make a complete kitchen for any meal. There’s even space dedicated for your pets with a built-in kennel in the king-size private bed. Aside from the side-ramp door, the Outback also features two entry doors to the living area and the rear private bedroom.
Our goal at General RV is to be your premier RV partner and your one-stop shop for all your RV needs. For your convenience, we have in-house RV financing options and work with an RV insurance partner. Plus, you’ll find all the RV parts and accessories you need in our RV dealerships. We also have more than 600 state-of-the-art RV service bays across our nationwide network.