9 out of 10 dedicated sports fans agree: the most wonderful time of the year is definitely fall. The months of September and October bring the promise of the excitement that goes hand in hand with college rivalries, World Cup qualifiers, MLB playoffs, and the start of the NHL, NBA, and NFL seasons. But what’s a sporting event experience without the food, the fun, and the tradition that is tailgating?

Parking lot pre-gaming isn’t just a hobby. When done correctly, it’s an art form. Whether you’re a tailgating veteran, or a red Solo cup newcomer, here are some essentials to get you through the season like a pro.

A Girl’s Guide To Tailgating

1. Portable Grill

Nothing screams tailgating neophyte like chips, candy, and cold cuts and chips. Don’t be that girl. Although a decent portable grill can cost between $100 – $300 dollars, consider it an investment in not looking like an idiot. Think of it this way, that little sucker will pay for itself with the money you’ll save from not eating overpriced concession stand hot dogs, and in friendships you’ll forge with fellow hungry sports fans.

PRO TIP: Invest in portable generator if you don’t know the area, and think you might be in need of power.

2. Cooler (On Wheels)

What holds 85 beverage cans, ice, and doubles as a chair in desperate times? If you said a cooler, this clearly isn’t your first rodeo. A good cooler is a must for the tailgate traveler. This 62 quart cooler from Coleman not only holds enough booze to dehydrate a fraternity pledge class, but it also keeps your cans cold for up to 5 days in temperatures up to 90 degrees. Move over, iPad. How’s that for technology?

Regardless of which cooler route you choose, unless you’ve got arms like a WWE wrestler, make sure it’s on wheels.

3. Team Gear & Accessories

Don’t be that girl at a parking lot BBQ in heels, and a Theory tank top. We don’t care how cute it is. Represent your team of choice with a tee shirt, jersey, and/or appropriate accessories, as found at retailers like Sports Authority, Dick’s Sporting Goods, or Kohl’s. For those of you looking for a more flirty, fitted alternative, look for your team’s tee at Victoria’s Secret.

4. Friend Who Can Actually Likes Sports

Do everyone in your seating section a favor and share your tickets and tailgating skills with friends who you don’t need to be spoon-fed every detail of the sport. Thank you in advance, from all of us.

5. Designated Driver

We all know the effects of a long day of tailgating, celebrating your team’s victor, or God forbid, their tragic loss. Needless to say, it’s a recipe for exhaustion. Be responsible. Make sure you have a ride home that’s sober, safe, and prepared to listen to you rant and/or rave about the game, and your new status as Queen of the Tailgaters.