How exactly did tailgating get its start? No one is quite certain. Some say that tailgating began in the early 1900s where spectators were forced to travel by train and carry their food with them as there were no food vendors. Others say that the practice began with colleges only offering limited parking spots so fans would need to arrive early to claim a space. Hours prior to the game, fans would arrive, leading to a congregation bringing their own food with them.
The term “tailgating” comes from the back tailgate of a truck being opened or lowered so sports fans could sit down, eat and be entertained while waiting for the game to begin. According to the CollegiateTimes.com, 35 percent of people who tailgate don’t even go into the game.
Here are our favorite Ford vehicles for tailgating.
Ford F-150 Best Features for Tailgating
This Ford Truck is a powerhouse! Besides power, there are many incredible features that lend itself to tailgating you’ll love, starting with the plush seating. It’s roomy too! There’s plenty of room for game day supplies, food and even a grill.
You can upgrade to the Pro Power Onboard system, basically turning your truck into a mobile generator. Yes, they will call you the King or Queen of tailgating. And what’s a tailgating party with tunes? The Ford SYNC 4 infotainment system is the perfect to get in the swing of things.
Thinking of starting your fun the night before? No problem as the F-150 can tow a full-size camper. The truck can tow 12,700 pounds. Another excellent feature that is often overlooked? The deployable step hidden within the tailgate makes for quick loading and unloading.
Ford Flex best features for Tailgating
Not only is this Ford SUV a fan favorite for tailgating, but it also has an available refrigerated console unit between the second-row captains’ chairs to keep your drinks cool. Speaking of these captains’ chairs, they are powered, and you can fold them flat at the touch of a button. When you fold the third row, you’ll have more than 80 cubic feet of room for all your tailgate accessories. But here’s the best part - the Flex third-row seating also flips over, to turn into parking-lot-facing seats. How awesome is that for your tailgating pleasure?
Ford definitely lives up to its reputation for giving you plenty of features at an affordable price.