Dewy grass, pimento cheese, concrete covered with tents and cornhole 🙌 – we take our tailgates very seriously in the South. Here’s what you need to know to keep up + impress your friends.

Before you go:

Where to find tailgating spots for Clemson, Furman, Wofford + UofSC games: StubHub usually has available tailgating spots on specific gamedays. Searching Facebook groups for spots is also a good idea.

Need a spot for the Clemson v. UofSC game? Check here (and check out our guide to Clemson for even more tips on your time in Tiger Town. 🐯)

What to pack:

🚗 Pack the car the night before to save time in the morning – who wants to be rushed on a day as glorious as gameday? If you order from a weekly meal delivery service (like HelloFresh), you should save those giant freezer packs and use them for your cooler. ♻️

🎪 A big, oversized tent with stakes (you don’t want it flying away, trust me.) Bring a tarp for an added top tent layer + it will keep any rain from pooling into your tailgate. 🌧️

🍴 Keep your utensils clean + separated by having a metal utensil holder. Our reader, Elizabeth T., also told us “If Its Paper on Pleasantburg is the best place for paper supplies, orange colored decorations, etc. And very affordable!”

🍽️ Hate when your dips touch your chips? Get this sectioned serving plate or have someone create a custom one.

🗑️ Bring a roll of black trash bags.

🥤 Dress it up a bit (and help the environment) with these stadium cups. You can also choose your city + team.

“I use Amazon for tailgating supplies! I love setting up and creating an inviting space. My number 1 tip is to add an outdoor rug and some framed photos of friends/family to add that special touch.” - Caitlin D.

🏆 It’s not a tailgate without corn hole. For the DIY types, check out these ready-to-paint boards.

🚩 Grab a cool vintage flag + a long flagpole to set up next to your tailgate. It’ll help friends easily locate your spot.

📺 You can bring a TV but be prepared to also bring a portable generator, gas to power the generator, and a Dish with a subscription. You can also bring a grill, although I suggest just bringing a very small, charcoal grill. Traveling with propane can be dangerous. Have another suggestion? Let us know by replying to this email.