How to Select a Tailgate Party Tent

A tailgate tent can make your next party a big smash. While not everybody is interested in spending the money needed to get a tent, the investment is usually quite worth it, especially if you organize tailgate events on a regular basis.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Select a Tailgate Party Tent

1. Expect the tent to be an investment, not a quick buy for a one-time use. Tailgate party tents are expensive, especially if they come with logos or special decorations. If you want to save money, buy a plain tent, and decorate it yourself with flags and banners.
2. Select a traditional size--9 by 9 feet--and polyester material if you are looking to protect the food. A tailgate tent is basically designed to prevent unexpected rain from ruining the table setting. It is not designed to prevent the guests from getting wet and it's usually to small for people to gather under.
3. Look for a special tailgate tent with your team's logo on it in specialty stores. Otherwise, you can select an appropriate tent at most outdoor-supply shops, including those selling camping equipment and patio furniture. EBay is another place to find tailgate tents, and prices are often lower than in retail shops (see Resources below).
4. Look for a tent with a powder-coated aluminum or steel frame (to prevent rust and chipping) and preferably one that comes with a heavy-duty carrying case and rollers. Not only is a tailgate tent large, but it is also heavy and difficult to carry. You need to make sure you are able to maneuver enough with it to get it to the set-up location and back.
5. Keep the local weather in mind when you are ready to select a tent. If you live in a windy area, you need a tent that is sturdy enough to stay upright. If you get a lot of rain, it makes more sense to invest in a tent with sides, rather than one with a simple canopy.

Tips & Warnings

• Shop online for better prices, but don't forget to account for shipping charges. Unless the shipping is a flat fee or the tent comes packed in a small container, you may run into steep charges in order to get the tent all the way to your door.
• Choose a tent that doesn't require tools to put together. A portable party tent should come apart easily and quickly.