Guide to Buying a Tailgate Machine

Although the thought of buying a tailgate machine may seem absurd to some (I don't know who either), it can seem like a worthwhile expense in the quest for the world's greatest tailgate. However, shopping for a vehicle that will strictly be used to stuff as many of your friends (and attach a couch to the top) is a bit different from buying your standard Honda Civic. Below are a couple points to consider when shopping for the mega-beast of tailgating:

1. Get a CARFAX report.
It is safe to say that when you purchase a vehicle that is strictly used for tailgating, you don't go to the dealership. So to ensure that you are not getting a vehicle that has taken a dip in your local lake, purchase a CARFAX report that will document such information. Also, be sure that the person selling you the RV, bus, or car gives you all the proper documentation for the vehicle.

2. Some RV's and buses require commercial driver's licenses.
If you have a Bus or RV in mind, make sure that it does not require a commercial driver's license to operate. The last thing you want is to be pulled over hours before game time because your friends will most likely not bail you out till after the game.

3. Check lot restrictions before buying a parking pass.
One of our readers sent us a story on how they spent 8 weeks converting their tailgate RV into the monster of all tailgate RV's. However, when they arrived for the first game, they found out no RV's were allowed in their lot. Needless to say finding a parking spot for the behemoth was not a fun adventure. Learn from their mistake and make sure you have the proper parking pass.

4. Insure your vechicle.
Win or lose, the potential for an accident is ever present with the craziness and stress once a game or event has let out. That is why it is important to purchase auto insurance for your tailgating mobile. Even though you normally only take out the vehicle once a week, and it seems kinda silly, it would be worse to get caught in a fender bender without insurance.

So there you have our small list. Be sure to check back to this story because we will be updating it with more ideas in the next coming months. Feel free to add your own tips below.