Tailgating at NFL games is a beloved tradition for many football fans. It’s a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy delicious food, and soak in the excitement before the game even starts. The right vehicle can make all the difference, providing ample space for grills, coolers, and all the essentials, while also offering features that enhance the tailgating experience.
Whether you’re looking for a spacious SUV, a versatile truck, or a van with plenty of room, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best cars for tailgating at NFL games, highlighting their key features and what makes them ideal for your next tailgate party.
1. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a quintessential tailgating vehicle, known for its versatility, durability, and ample space. The F-150’s large bed provides plenty of room for all your tailgating gear, from grills and coolers to chairs and tents. The truck’s bed also comes with features like the available tailgate step and BoxLink system, making it easier to load and organize your equipment.
Inside, the F-150 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with advanced technology like the SYNC 4 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected throughout your tailgating adventure.
The F-150’s robust engine options ensure that you can haul heavy loads with ease, and its towing capacity allows you to bring additional gear or even a trailer. With available features like the Pro Power Onboard, which provides up to 7.2kW of power, you can power your appliances and gadgets directly from the truck. The Ford F-150 is a reliable and powerful choice for any tailgate party, offering the perfect blend of functionality and comfort.
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is another excellent option for tailgating enthusiasts. Known for its strong performance and impressive towing capacity, the Silverado 1500 can easily handle all your tailgating essentials. The truck’s bed is designed with durability in mind, featuring 12 standard tie-downs and a Durabed with a high-strength steel construction that ensures your gear stays secure. The available Multi-Flex Tailgate offers six different functions, providing added convenience for loading and accessing your equipment.
Inside, the Silverado 1500 features a comfortable and tech-savvy cabin with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. This system includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi, keeping you connected and entertained. The Silverado’s powerful engine options and advanced towing technology make it easy to bring everything you need for the perfect tailgate. Whether you’re grilling burgers or watching the pre-game show, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a reliable and capable companion for any NFL game day.
3. Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 stands out in the tailgating world for its luxurious interior and advanced features. This full-size pickup offers a spacious bed with the available RamBox Cargo Management System, providing secure, weatherproof storage compartments for your tailgating gear. The multifunction tailgate adds versatility, allowing you to open it in multiple ways for easier access to your equipment. With its smooth ride and powerful engine options, the Ram 1500 ensures you can transport all your tailgating essentials comfortably.
Inside, the Ram 1500 boasts a refined cabin with premium materials and cutting-edge technology. The Uconnect infotainment system features a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available SiriusXM with 360L, offering endless entertainment options. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system provides an immersive listening experience, perfect for playing your favorite game-day tunes. The Ram 1500 combines style, performance, and practicality, making it a top choice for tailgating at NFL games.
4. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is a versatile and unique option for tailgaters. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline features a unibody construction, providing a smoother ride and better handling. The truck’s bed is equipped with an in-bed trunk, offering additional secure storage space for your tailgating gear. The dual-action tailgate can swing open or drop down, adding flexibility for loading and unloading.
One of the standout features of the Ridgeline is the available in-bed audio system, which turns the truck bed into a massive speaker, perfect for tailgate parties. Inside, the Ridgeline offers a comfortable and tech-forward cabin with the HondaLink infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The Honda Ridgeline’s innovative features and comfortable ride make it an excellent choice for tailgating enthusiasts who want a truck that stands out from the crowd.
5. GMC Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500 is a premium pickup truck that offers a blend of luxury and capability, making it an ideal vehicle for tailgating. The Sierra’s bed is designed with convenience in mind, featuring the MultiPro Tailgate with six configurable functions, allowing for easier loading and access to your gear. The CarbonPro bed option provides exceptional durability, ensuring your equipment stays safe and secure.
Inside, the Sierra 1500 features a sophisticated cabin with high-quality materials and advanced technology. The GMC Infotainment System includes a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The available Bose premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality, perfect for enjoying music and broadcasts while tailgating. The GMC Sierra 1500’s powerful engine options and luxurious interior make it a standout choice for those looking to tailgate in style and comfort.
6. Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a reliable and rugged truck that excels in providing a great tailgating experience. The Tundra’s bed is designed for durability and functionality, with available features like the deck rail system and easy lower and lift tailgate. The truck’s powerful engine ensures that you can haul all your tailgating gear with ease, and its impressive towing capacity allows you to bring along additional equipment or a trailer if needed.
Inside, the Tundra offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with advanced technology like the Entune infotainment system. This system includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi, keeping you connected and entertained. The available JBL audio system provides high-quality sound, enhancing your tailgating experience. The Toyota Tundra’s combination of reliability, performance, and tech-savvy features makes it an excellent choice for any NFL game day.
7. Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan is a capable and well-equipped truck that offers great features for tailgating. The Titan’s bed is designed with utility in mind, featuring the Utili-track Channel System and available Titan Box storage compartments, providing secure and organized storage for your tailgating gear. The dampened assist tailgate makes it easy to open and close, adding convenience for loading and unloading.
Inside, the Titan features a comfortable and modern cabin with the NissanConnect infotainment system. This system includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected and entertained. The Titan’s powerful engine and advanced towing capabilities make it easy to bring everything you need for the perfect tailgate party. The Nissan Titan is a solid choice for tailgaters looking for a reliable and versatile truck.
8. Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that offers plenty of space and features for an exceptional tailgating experience. With its massive cargo area, the Suburban provides ample room for all your tailgating essentials, from grills and coolers to chairs and tents. The power liftgate and available hands-free liftgate make it easy to access your gear, while the flat-folding rear seats allow for even more cargo space.
Inside, the Suburban boasts a comfortable and tech-savvy cabin with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. This system includes a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The available Bose premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality, perfect for playing your favorite game-day music. The Chevrolet Suburban’s combination of space, comfort, and advanced features makes it an ideal vehicle for tailgating at NFL games.
9. Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is another excellent full-size SUV for tailgating enthusiasts. Known for its spacious interior and powerful performance, the Expedition offers plenty of room for all your tailgating gear. The power-folding rear seats and hands-free liftgate make it easy to load and access your equipment, while the available Cargo Management System helps keep everything organized.
Inside, the Expedition features a modern and comfortable cabin with the SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system includes a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen provides high-quality audio, enhancing your tailgating experience. The Ford Expedition’s combination of space, technology, and performance makes it a top choice for those looking to tailgate in style and comfort.
10. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a versatile and rugged vehicle that offers a unique tailgating experience. Known for its off-road capabilities, the Wrangler provides ample space and features for a fun and adventurous tailgate. The removable top and doors allow for an open-air experience, while the spacious cargo area provides room for your tailgating essentials.
Inside, the Wrangler features a modern and tech-savvy cabin with the Uconnect infotainment system. This system includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi, keeping you connected and entertained. The available Alpine premium audio system delivers high-quality sound, making it perfect for playing music and broadcasts while tailgating. The Jeep Wrangler’s combination of ruggedness, versatility, and advanced technology makes it an excellent choice for tailgating at NFL games.
11. Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey is a versatile minivan that offers ample space and innovative features, making it an excellent choice for tailgating. The Odyssey’s Magic Slide second-row seats and available third-row Magic Seat create a spacious cargo area, perfect for hauling all your tailgating essentials. The available hands-free power tailgate makes loading and unloading a breeze, while the cabin’s comfortable seating and flexible configurations ensure everyone has a great view and easy access to all the gear.
Inside, the Odyssey is packed with technology, including the HondaLink infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The available CabinWatch and CabinTalk features allow you to keep an eye on passengers and communicate easily. The Odyssey also features an available rear entertainment system, perfect for keeping everyone entertained before the game. With its combination of space, comfort, and innovative features, the Honda Odyssey is an ideal vehicle for tailgating at NFL games.
12. Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica is another top choice for tailgating, offering a blend of space, comfort, and advanced technology. The Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating and storage system provides ample cargo space, making it easy to carry all your tailgating gear. The hands-free power sliding doors and liftgate add convenience when loading and unloading, while the spacious and comfortable interior ensures a great experience for all passengers.
The Pacifica features the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system delivers high-quality sound, perfect for playing your favorite tailgating tunes. Additionally, the available rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10-inch touchscreens keeps passengers entertained. The Chrysler Pacifica’s combination of versatility, comfort, and technology makes it a fantastic option for tailgating.
13. Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is a midsize SUV that combines rugged capability with advanced technology, making it a great choice for tailgating. The Ascent offers a spacious cargo area with a power rear gate, making it easy to load and unload your tailgating gear. The available roof rails and crossbars provide additional storage options for larger items like grills and coolers.
Inside, the Ascent features the STARLINK infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The cabin offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, with flexible seating configurations to maximize cargo space. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system provides excellent sound quality, enhancing your tailgating experience. The Subaru Ascent’s combination of capability, space, and technology makes it an excellent vehicle for tailgating at NFL games.
14. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged and capable SUV that offers plenty of space and features for a great tailgating experience. The 4Runner’s spacious cargo area and available sliding rear cargo deck make it easy to load and access your tailgating gear. The available 120V AC power outlet in the cargo area allows you to power appliances and gadgets, adding convenience to your tailgate party.
Inside, the 4Runner features the Entune infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The cabin offers comfortable seating and ample space for passengers and gear. The available JBL audio system provides high-quality sound, perfect for playing music and broadcasts while tailgating. The Toyota 4Runner’s combination of ruggedness, space, and technology makes it a great choice for tailgating at NFL games.
15. Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that offers a range of advanced connectivity features. The infotainment system includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for hands-free communication, music streaming, and navigation. The Palisade also features a premium Harman Kardon audio system, providing high-quality sound for an immersive listening experience.
Additional connectivity options include wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing passengers to stay connected and keep their devices charged throughout their journey. Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car services offer remote access to the vehicle’s settings, real-time traffic updates, and other features that enhance convenience and connectivity. The intuitive interface and voice recognition system make it easy to access essential functions without distraction.
The Hyundai Palisade’s combination of advanced technology, space, and comfort makes it an excellent choice for families and tech-savvy drivers. Its spacious interior and high-end features ensure a comfortable and connected driving experience for all occupants.
16. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a versatile SUV that combines off-road capability with advanced connectivity features. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system includes an 8.4-inch or available 10.1-inch touchscreen that supports Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for hands-free communication, music streaming, and navigation. The Grand Cherokee also features a premium Alpine or Harman Kardon audio system, providing high-quality sound for an immersive listening experience.
Additional connectivity options include wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing passengers to stay connected and keep their devices charged throughout their journey. Jeep’s Uconnect services offer remote access to the vehicle’s settings, real-time traffic updates, and other features that enhance convenience and connectivity. The intuitive interface and voice recognition system make it easy to access essential functions without distraction.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s combination of advanced technology, capability, and comfort makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize connectivity and adventure. Its intuitive interface and high-quality materials ensure a luxurious and connected driving experience.
17. Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that excels in providing connectivity features. The infotainment system includes a 10.2-inch touchscreen that supports Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. This system ensures seamless smartphone integration for hands-free communication, music streaming, and access to navigation apps. The Tahoe also features a premium Bose audio system, providing high-quality sound for an immersive listening experience.
Additional connectivity options include wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing passengers to stay connected and keep their devices charged throughout their journey. Chevrolet Connected Services offers remote access to the vehicle’s settings, real-time traffic updates, and other features that enhance convenience and connectivity.
The voice recognition system and intuitive interface make it easy to access essential functions without distraction. The Chevrolet Tahoe’s combination of space, power, and advanced technology makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize connectivity and functionality. Its spacious interior and high-end features ensure a comfortable and connected driving experience for all occupants.
18. Toyota Sequoia
The Toyota Sequoia is a versatile full-size SUV that offers ample space and features for a great tailgating experience. The Sequoia’s spacious cargo area and available power liftgate make it easy to load and access your tailgating gear. The third-row seats fold flat to provide even more space, ensuring you can carry all your essentials comfortably.
Inside, the Sequoia features the Entune infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The cabin offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, with flexible seating configurations to maximize cargo space.
The available JBL audio system provides high-quality sound, perfect for playing music and broadcasts while tailgating. The Toyota Sequoia’s combination of space, comfort, and advanced technology makes it an excellent choice for tailgating at NFL games.
Tailgating at NFL games is a cherished tradition, and having the right vehicle can make all the difference. From the versatile Ford F-150 to the spacious Toyota Sequoia, these vehicles offer the perfect combination of space, comfort, and advanced features to enhance your tailgating experience. Whether you prefer a truck, SUV, or minivan, each of these options ensures you stay connected and entertained while enjoying the excitement of game day.