True story: My friends and I once tailgated without a car. We simply integrated ourselves into the mix with dual 18 packs of Coors Light. It helped that it was a Wazzu Cougars game, whose fans have been known to enjoy an adult beverage or two. You don’t have to deal with the embarrassment of what we went through, though, because I’ve provided a list of the best vehicles for setting up parking lot parties. What makes for a superior tailgater? Beer, food, and a pickup bed, sure. But there’s more to it than that. I think. Read on and see if I actually came up with anything else.
By the way, I know it’s only the preseason and college games are still a few days away, but I wanted to give you a chance to hit up CarWoo!and purchase your tailgater before things really start ramping up.
Ram 1500
The best thing about the Ram 1500 is the Rambox, seemingly created for tailgating. You can fit 240 cans into the sides of the bed, which should last you at least until game time. Feel free to use the freed up space for cooking up trouble.
Honda Ridgeline
Honda’s own site claims that Ridgeline’s multi-faceted bed is hand-built for parties (that’s what I got out of it at least). You’ve got a tailgate that flips down AND swings open, an in-bed trunk for storing booze or booze, and a reinforced bed that can handle grill ash and metal scratches like no other.
Ford Explorer
Seating for seven, a power folding third row and power liftgate for hands full accessibility, and all the latest gadgetry make Explorer a welcome sight in any parking lot. 49er fans wouldn’t understand.
Someone Else’s Vehicle
Tailgating gets messy, and there are always going to be taggers-on that offer to pay for gas and then forget for five years. But the most important thing is that someone has to drive home after the game. Make sure you’ve got a designated driver before pounding those tall boys.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
Top on or off, space rules the Wrangler Unlimited. You’ve got up to 86 cubic feet for storing brats (hot dogs), and the floor is easily washable after you spill 14 pounds of sauerkraut everywhere.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Two Jeeps in a row?Yep. And it’s because the Grand Cherokee brings a bit of class to the tailgating experience. You’ve got a comfortable ride to and from the stadium, and a fold flat floor & easy liftgate access for hauling things and then setting up quickly once you get there.
Lexus RX
If you find yourself a little too toasty to get inside the stadium, you can relax the buzz off by reclining in the back seats and watching the 2004 Carolina Panthers NFL Yearbook. I picture these at a lot of Notre Dame games, being driven by the sweater & collared undershirt crew.
Kia Soul
I’ve heard the sound system in this thing kicks ass, so you’ve got that going for you. Plus, nobody is going to bother trying to steal it when you leave for the game.
Honda Odyssey
Odyssey’s space versatility makes for some entertaining options. You’ve got room for seven or eight or up to 148 cubic feet of space if you have no friends. That’s almost enough room to have your own 7 on 7 scrimmage- if you know what I mean. Football.
Ford F-150
Let’s see; pull down tailgate and bed, check. Working engine, check. Yes, Ford’s super truck is an acceptable tailgating vehicle.
Tailgater or not, if you’re looking to buy a new car you’ve got CarWoo!on your side.
