How Do You Get Electricity At A Tailgate Party?

Last Updated on September 1, 2023 by mfttherese

Tailgating is a time-honored tradition of gathering with friends and family to enjoy pre game festivities and indulge in delicious food and drinks. But with so many tailgating parties in outdoor areas, getting access to electricity can be a challenge. From powering your grill to charging your phone, having electricity can make or break a tailgating party. 

You can use a generator or other sources like a solar panel, portable power station, or a car battery to get electricity at a tailgate party. To use a generator, you must choose the right size and type for your needs and set it up in a safe location. You must also be mindful of the devices’ wattage and follow generator safety guidelines to prevent accidents.

Read on to explore how to be an advanced tailgater and how to get electricity at a tailgate party, including planning, setting up your tailgate power source, and ensuring safety.

Planning Ahead

It is critical to prepare ahead of time for your tailgate party to ensure that you have everything you need to have more than enough power for your electronics and appliances.

If you prepare, you could estimate your power through the party or discover that your generator needs to be significantly big to power all your appliances. If you wait until the last hour to purchase a generator or other equipment, you may spend more or be unable to locate what you want. 

Determine Your Electricity Needs

The first step in preparing is determining all your power needs. Create a list of all the appliances and gadgets you want to use, and calculate how much electricity each one will demand. This preparation will assist you in determining the watt hours and capacity of the generator or power source required. 

Choose the Appropriate Generator or Power Source

After determining how much electricity you’ll need, it’s time to choose the proper generator or power source. Several generator types are available, ranging from tiny portable generators, gas generators, inverter generators to big backup generators.  

Check Any Regulations or Rules at the Tailgating Location

Before you go to the location, double-check any limitations or guidelines at the tailgating venue. Specific tailgating locations may limit the use of generators or other power sources, so check the regulations before you go. 

Power Options for Tailgate Parties

There are several options available to get electricity at your tailgate party. Here are some popular options.

Generator

Generators are a popular option for supplying electricity to tailgate gatherings. They come in various sizes, and you may choose one based on the amount of power you need. A tailgate generator often uses gasoline or diesel and may be loud, so keep them away from the party area if possible. 

Portable Power Station

A portable power station is a rechargeable battery that can power your tailgating party. Because of their mobility, low noise levels, and simplicity of use, they are becoming more popular. Portable power stations are available in a variety of sizes and may power items to watch tv, sound systems, and freezers. 

Solar Panels

Solar panels are eco friendly and a great alternative for powering your tailgate party. They turn sunlight into energy, which may power various gadgets. Solar panels are helpful when used with a portable power station or power bank to provide a continuous power source. There are also solar generators available in the market today.  

Car’s Battery

In an emergency, many tailgaters utilize their vehicle battery. You’ll need an inverter to convert the direct current electricity from your automobile battery to AC power, which is what most electrical gadgets need. Remember that running your vehicle batteries for a long time might deplete them, so keep your car running or have a backup plan.  

Setting Up

Once you have your generator and have arrived at your tailgating location, it is time to set up your power source. Proper setting up can also help avoid power outages or interruptions of your tailgating experience. 

Proper setup can also help maximize efficiency and minimize waste. Using the right size extension cords, avoiding excessive cord length, and choosing appliances and devices with fuel efficiency are vital. 

Place the Generator in a Safe and Secure Location

The first step in setting up your generator is to position it in a safe and secure area. Place the generator at least 10 feet away from structures, buildings, and combustible items. 

Connect the Generator to the Power Inlet

Once the generator is in place, connect it to the power inlet. Ensure that the power inlet is compatible with your generator and that you use the appropriate connectors and adapters. 

Turn on the Generator and Let it Warm-up

Remember to turn on the generator and allow it to warm up after connecting it to the power inlet. This process ensures the generator is in good working order and ready to power your electronics and appliances.  

The Power Distribution

Now that your generator is running, it is time to distribute the power to your devices and appliances. Power distribution allows you to distribute power to multiple appliances and devices throughout your party. 

Power distribution can ensure efficiency by allowing you to match the power requirements of each appliance to the appropriate circuit. It can also improve safety by preventing electrical shock, electrocution, and other hazards.   

Connect Power Strips or Extension Cords to the Generator 

The first step in distributing power is to connect power strips or extension cords to the generator. Ensure that the power strips or extension cords are compatible with your generator and that you use the appropriate connectors and adapters.

Distribute the Cords to Various Locations

Once you have connected the power strips or extension cords to the generator, it is time to distribute them to various locations. Ensure that the cords are in safe locations and that they are not obstructing any walkways or causing a tripping hazard. 

Be Mindful of the Wattage of the Devices Used

While distributing electricity, it is critical to keep the wattage of the devices in mind. Be sure that the overall wattage of all the gadgets is at most the generator’s capability. It is also a great idea to prioritize the essential gadgets so that they get power first. 

Here’s a table that estimates the power usage of common tailgate party appliances:

Appliance	Power Output (Watts)
Propane Grill	30-60
Electric Grill	1,200-2,000
Portable Speaker / Sound System	10-50
Cell Phone Charger	5-10
Laptop	50-100
Electric Kettle	1,500-2,000
Electric Heater or Electric Cooler	1,500-3,000

Remember that these are estimates and that actual figures may vary based on the type and use of each appliance. When considering how much power capacity you will need for your party, consider the total wattage of all the appliances you want to use simultaneously and choose a generator to manage that load.

Safety Precautions

Electricity can be dangerous if not handled correctly, and tailgate parties can present unique challenges when it comes to electrical safety. Safety precautions, such as using properly grounded AC outlets, avoiding wet conditions, and using GFCI outlets, can help prevent electrical hazards and protect people from electrical shock or electrocution. 

Follow Safety Guidelines for Generators

The best generators for tailgating may be harmful if not operated correctly; thus, it is critical to observe generator safety recommendations. Check that the generator is correctly grounded and put it in a safe area away from combustible items.

Use GFCI Outlets

When connecting power strips or extension cords to the generator, make sure that you are using GFCI outlets. These outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock and can help prevent accidents.

Keep the Generator Away from Flammable Materials

You must keep the generator away from combustible items, including gasoline, propane tanks, and other dangerous products. Ascertain that the generator is in a safe and secure area and does not pose a fire threat.

Conclusion

Getting electricity at a tailgate party is easier than you might think. By planning, setting up your power source, distributing power, and ensuring safety, you can enjoy all the benefits of having electricity at your tailgate party. 

Remember to bring your best tailgate generator or power source and follow these easy instructions in your next tailgate party. With some planning and prudence, you can guarantee your tailgate party is a success.