(Metro News Service) The start of the football season is a big deal for sports fans. After months away from the gridiron, college and professional teams return to the field over the final weeks of summer. Fans follow suit, returning to stadiums and, before kickoff, setting up outside in the parking lot to tailgate.

Tailgating is an integral part of the game day experience for millions of football fans. As a new season dawns, fans who want to take their tailgating to championship heights can be sure to bring along these must-have items.

· Portable grill: A portable grill that's easily built and dismantled is an absolute must when tailgating. Tailgates are as much about food as football, and some grilled fare like hamburgers and hot dogs are go-to pre-kickoff selections. Don't forget to bring along plenty of charcoal, a fire starter, and a lighter when heading to a tailgate with a portable grill in tow.

· Foldable tables and chairs: Fans tend to mingle around a tailgate, but foldable tables and chairs are ideal for serving and eating food. Tailgate hosts can request guests bring their own foldable chairs to save room for additional items in their vehicles.

· Canopy: The elements are hard to predict, and savvy tailgaters know a canopy is a useful item to bring along to any tailgate. A canopy can protect guests and food from the elements by blocking both the sun and rain. Fans who want to go the extra mile can bring along a canopy with an attachable sun wall to provide additional protection against the sun and wind.

· Insulated cooler(s): Insulated coolers can keep food from spoiling and ensure beverages stay cold throughout the tailgate. Let the number of guests dictate whether or not you bring along an extra insulated cooler or two. At least two coolers might be useful, as tailgate hosts can designate one for beverages and another for food.

· Collapsible food storage tubs: The right food storage tubs can make a tailgating host's job that much easier. Use the tubs to store premade items like sides and chopped vegetables that will ultimately be eaten during the tailgate. Once emptied, the tubs can be collapsed and easily stored in a reusable shopping bag, making for easy cleanup and transport home.

· Portable Bluetooth speaker: Music can set a festive tone for a tailgate, so bring along a portable Bluetooth speaker to set the right tailgating tone. A pre-selected playlist can keep the music playing throughout the festivities.

· Entertainment: A football is a no-brainer when choosing some tailgating entertainment. But additional games can add to the fun. Pack a deck of cards for fellow fans who want to sit down and relax before the big game and some additional games, like cornhole and ring toss, for those who want to burn off some pregame energy.

· Smart TV: Fans know there's no shortage of great games come football season. A smart TV with apps to stream games kicking off in other cities can take a tailgate up several notches. Fans will enjoy gathering around and watching a game in a different locale so they can keep up with all the action on game day. A high-capacity battery pack can provide all the power a tailgate needs, while a portable tripod stand can save hosts the hassle of packing an additional foldable table.

Tailgating is a beloved tradition come football season. Some must-have items can enable football fans to take their tailgates up a notch this year.