How to Throw a Trunk Party Like a Pro

The best back end parties require preparation and use of the right party supplies. The first thing you will need is a suitable vehicle, usually a truck or SUV is best. Other essentials include: an EZ-Up tent, a few camping chairs with a drink holder in the armrest, and folding tables needed to set up pretty much everything. American Tailgater has great motorized coolers and other tailgate accessories.

We've seen some amazingly creative trunk party ideas. How about a tiered toolbox, with grill forks, tongs and knives on one level, sauces and condiments on another, and napkins and plastic or paper plates on a third? You can add hand cleaner, band-aids, and anything else you think might come in handy.

How to pack a refrigerator

You will need coolers. Probably at least two big ones. Place bottles and cans on the bottom of the refrigerator, then fill them with ice to fill all available space. Then place packaged meats, food containers, etc. on top of this. This means moving food before you can drink, but it's the most economical way to do it.

If you have two coolers, why not put soft drinks and water in one and adult drinks in the other. Then put labels on them so you don't have to fish in cold water for beer and find a cold can of soda over and over again. Oh yeah, why not freeze plastic water bottles before leaving? They help keep everything cool as they turn back into drinking water.

Get ready as much as possible

Consider preparing a lot of food ahead of time. Line your lettuce, onion and pickle trays with plastic sheets to quickly assemble your burger. So are the meatballs. You can string and marinate the kebabs the night before so they'll hit the grill right away.

Keep in mind that you may all need breakfast the next morning, so bring eggs, pancakes, sausages, and a frying pan to make them.

Keep clean

If you don't think you'll completely empty your refrigerators, be sure to grab a large plastic tub to put things in that you don't plan on throwing away. You know, reusable. If you're planning on barbecuing, and why not, it's a good idea to bring a metal bucket with a lid to get rid of the charcoal ash. You can't usually just throw these things in public waste barrels, and driving home with a Weber full of coals isn't a good idea.

Another good idea we spotted is a makeshift handwashing station made from old plastic laundry detergent bottles. Fill them with water, then place a bottle of handwash and paper towels on a vertical roller next to them.

Create a great atmosphere

If you plan on playing music from your truck's stereo, you might consider getting one of those Auto Jumper auxiliary batteries that plug into the cigarette lighter socket. They charge while you drive and can then send the charge back to your car battery when needed. Of course, in any case, take the connecting cables.

Make it easy to find you

If you're expecting a crowd, how about putting up a helium balloon to help them find you. Tell everyone what the hot air balloon is because you might not be the only one who thought of this.

Probably the most important thing to do during installation is introduce yourself to your neighbors. This can prevent any misunderstandings that may arise during a noisy, fun party. Also, you may need to borrow something!