Football season is one of the most exciting times of the year! With each new season comes one time-honored football tradition: Tailgating.  

Tailgating is a fun way to bond with friends, family, fellow fans, and even rivals, and when you find new, creative ways to save money, it makes it even more rewarding! Here are some simple ways you can save at the next big game.

Carpool

Carpooling is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to tailgate, and it also helps your wallet.  It’s no secret that parking on gameday can be expensive. There are many ways fans curb this price, such as taking a shuttle, walking long distances to the stadium, or even using a ridesharing service. If you carpool with friends, you pay once to park one car, rather than pay for each vehicle separately. If everyone carpooling chips in, the price of parking is significantly diminished.

Borrow Equipment

Equipment is easily one of the essential parts of a great tailgate, but if you don’t own the things you need, there’s a good chance you don’t have to break the bank to get it. Ask around and see if anyone you know has equipment they aren’t using. Often, you can find someone with a grill, cooler, radio, or utensils you can use for your event. Likewise, ask those attending your tailgate if they have any equipment they can spare.

Buy in Bulk

When you’re making your tailgating plans for the coming season, it might help to buy many of your supplies in bulk. Many big-box stores offer large quantities of food, utensils, napkins, paper towels, and everything else you need at discount prices. Many times, items needed for your tailgating party go on sale in the off-season.

“Tailgate” At Home

One of the easiest ways to save money tailgating is to simply do it at home. When you host a tailgate party at your home, you don’t pay for parking or tickets. You can also invite as many people as you want, and you will have everything you need at your disposal. Tailgating at home also offers comfort and flexibility and the ability to decorate however you like.

Wherever you choose to tailgate and however you choose to get your supplies, what really matters is that everyone has a fun, safe time. This is one of the best times of the year, and if you spend it with people you love, it will always be a win!