Tailgating is a popular American pastime, and it’s not just about the game. It’s about the experience of being outside, hanging out with friends and family, and enjoying good food and drinks. One essential element of tailgating is having the right gear, and tailgate accessories are a crucial part of that.
Tailgate accessories are products designed to make your tailgating experience better and more comfortable. They can range from chairs and tables to coolers and grills. But what makes tailgate accessories unique is that they are designed to be portable, durable, and easy to use. They are specifically made to withstand the rigors of outdoor use and to be easily transported from one location to another.
When it comes to tailgate accessories, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. First, you need to think about the size and weight of the product. You want something that is easy to carry and won’t take up too much space in your vehicle. Second, you need to consider the durability of the product. Tailgate accessories need to be able to withstand outdoor conditions, including rain, wind, and sun. Finally, you need to think about the features of the product. Does it have enough storage space? Is it easy to set up and take down?
We spent hours researching and testing various tailgate accessories to identify the ones that make the tailgating experience more enjoyable. From portable grills to folding chairs, we’ve got you covered. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best tailgate accessories on the market.
Best Tailgate Accessories
We know how important tailgating is for sports fans and we want to make sure you have the best experience possible. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best tailgate accessories to take your game day festivities to the next level. From portable grills to folding chairs, we’ve got you covered with items that are both practical and fun. So grab your favorite team’s jersey and get ready to tailgate like a pro with our top picks for the best tailgate accessories.
M KARMATER SUV Tailgate Tent
We highly recommend the M KARMATER SUV Tailgate Tent for anyone who is looking for a versatile and easy-to-use tailgate tent.
Pros
- The tent has three sides mesh window for ventilation and insect protection.
- It provides a shaded lounging area wherever you park.
- It is wind and sunproof resistant.
Cons
- It may not fit all SUV models.
- It requires assembly.
- The tent stakes and wind ropes may not be strong enough for extreme weather conditions.
We recently tried out this tailgate tent and were impressed with its quality and versatility. The three sides mesh window design allowed us to enjoy the breeze without worrying about insects or other pests. The zippers on the door provided an extra layer of privacy, weatherproofing, and a clear view of our surroundings.
The tent provided a shaded lounging area wherever we parked. When the SUV awning was fully opened, we enjoyed up to 6ft x 6ft of shade, with two side awnings for additional coverage, which created an extra large shadow area. It could accommodate 4-6 people to taste delicious food and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Crafted from tough 210T tear-resistant polyester with PU coating, it effectively shielded us from harmful UV rays while keeping us safe on breezy days. We anchored it securely in place with the included guy-lines and aluminum alloy pegs.
The tent was easy to install with an elastic connection port. We simply slipped the tent over our SUV’s hatch and wrapped the bottom portion under our car. Then we connected the straps and hooks to proper places for a secure setup. We appreciated the professional tent stakes and wind ropes that helped keep our tailgate shade awning firmly in place. When we were done, we simply folded it up into a compact size for easy storage and transport.
In conclusion, the M KARMATER SUV Tailgate Tent is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience camping outdoors with the added protection and comfort of sleeping off the ground. It is extremely versatile and is undoubtedly a great choice for fishing trips, traveling, or festivals where a dedicated campground is unavailable. If you are unhappy with any aspect of the car tent or if any parts are missing or damaged, contact the manufacturer and they’ll make it right.
DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist
If you’re looking for a tailgate assist that makes the use of your tailgate an ease, the DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The installation process is easy and requires no drilling.
- The DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist is custom designed for each make and model, ensuring a perfect fit.
- The smooth controlled drop allows your children to safely lower the tailgate.
Cons
- The DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist is not compatible with all truck models.
- The special socket required to get the bolts loose is not included.
- The product may not be as durable as some other tailgate assists on the market.
We recently installed the DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist on our 2018 Ford F150 and we were impressed with how easy the installation process was. The product comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and can be installed in just a few minutes. We were also impressed with how well the DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist worked. The smooth controlled drop allowed us to easily release the tailgate with one hand, and we no longer had to worry about the loud bang when it came down.
However, we did find that the DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist was not compatible with all truck models. We also had to purchase a special socket to get the bolts loose, as the wrench supplied did not give enough leverage and slipped off every time. Additionally, we found that the product may not be as durable as some other tailgate assists on the market.
Overall, we would recommend the DEE ZEE Tailgate Assist to anyone looking for an easy-to-use tailgate assist that makes the use of their tailgate an ease. However, we would recommend checking to make sure that the product is compatible with your truck model before purchasing.
IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shocks
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-install tailgate assist shock for your Ram truck, the IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shocks could be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Special design for Ram trucks
- Premium metal end bracket and additional anti-dust cover
- Safely controls the drop rate of truck tailgates
Cons
- Installation instructions can be confusing
- Some users reported issues with the clip that holds the cylinder on the ball
- May not fit all Ram truck models
We recently installed the IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shocks on our Ram 1500 and we’re impressed with its performance. The shock is specially designed for Ram trucks, so it fits perfectly and works smoothly. The premium metal end bracket and additional anti-dust cover ensure smooth, rattle-free movement and extend the service life of the tailgate assist.
One of the best things about this tailgate assist shock is that it safely controls the drop rate of the tailgate, so you don’t have to worry about it hitting your fingers or kids. It’s also very easy to install, although the instructions can be confusing at times.
Overall, we highly recommend the IAQWE Tailgate Assist Shocks for anyone who wants a reliable and easy-to-use tailgate assist shock for their Ram truck.
Camerons All-in-One Tailgating Table
If you’re looking for a tailgating table that can be used for multiple occasions, then the Camerons All-in-One Tailgating Table is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The table features an insulated cooler to keep your beverages cold.
- The four cup holders are a convenient feature that keeps your drinks in place.
- The mesh food basket is a great addition for storing snacks.
Cons
- The cup holders are slanted inward, which can make it difficult to place larger cups or bottles.
- The large hole in the center of the table is deep, so smaller bowls can get lost at the bottom.
- The water from the ice in the cooler can soak through the bottom of the table.
We recently used this table for a tailgate party, and it was a hit. The insulated cooler kept our drinks cold, and the four cup holders were a convenient feature. The mesh food basket was also a great addition for storing snacks.
One downside to this table is that the cup holders are slanted inward, which can make it difficult to place larger cups or bottles. Additionally, the large hole in the center of the table is deep, so smaller bowls can get lost at the bottom. The water from the ice in the cooler can also soak through the bottom of the table, so it’s important to use a waterproof liner.
Overall, the Camerons All-in-One Tailgating Table is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile tailgating table. It’s lightweight and collapsible, making it easy to transport and store. Plus, it’s a great gift idea for birthdays, college students, Father’s Day, barbecue lovers, and grilling fanatics.
Dorman 38641 Tailgate Hinge Insert Kit
If you’re looking for a reliable replacement for your tailgate hinge bushing, the Dorman 38641 Tailgate Hinge Insert Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The kit matches the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles, making it an ideal solution for a failed part due to fatigue.
- Made from quality materials, this tailgate hinge bushing is engineered for reliable performance and long service life.
- The part is backed by a team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience, ensuring trustworthy quality.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty installing the right side bushing, but this can be resolved with the help of online videos and a friend.
- The package includes two cups that may not be a perfect fit, so some fiddling may be required during installation.
- A few users have noted that the material is thin, but it still works well.
We recently installed the Dorman 38641 Tailgate Hinge Insert Kit on our Ford F-150 and were impressed with the results. The kit was a direct replacement for the original part and matched the fit and function perfectly. We appreciated the durable construction and reliable performance, which made our tailgate feel like new again. The installation process was relatively easy, although we did need to refer to some online videos for guidance. Overall, we would highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a tailgate hinge bushing replacement.
Buying Guide
When it comes to tailgating, having the right accessories can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. In this buying guide, we’ll go over some key features to look for when choosing tailgate accessories.
Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when buying tailgate accessories is durability. After all, you don’t want to invest in a product that will fall apart after just a few uses. Look for products made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Stainless steel, aluminum, and heavy-duty plastic are all good options.
Compatibility
Another key consideration is compatibility. Make sure that any accessories you buy are compatible with your vehicle and your existing setup. For example, if you have a truck with a tailgate that folds down, you’ll want to look for accessories that can be easily attached to that tailgate.
Convenience
Tailgating is all about having fun, so you don’t want to spend all your time setting up and taking down your accessories. Look for products that are easy to install and use, with features like quick-release mechanisms or simple locking mechanisms.
Functionality
Finally, think about what you actually need your accessories to do. Are you looking for a grill that can cook up burgers and hot dogs for a crowd? Or do you need a portable table that can hold all your snacks and drinks? Consider your specific needs and look for products that will meet them.
By focusing on durability, compatibility, convenience, and functionality, you can choose tailgate accessories that will help you have a great time at your next tailgate party.