Football season is approaching fast, and that means it's time to start thinking about game day. Whether you’re tailgating or going straight to the stands, there are certain things you'll need to make sure you have a good time at kickoff and beyond. Here are 10 of the most important items to bring with you on game day.
Sunscreen Is a Must
Always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors — it’s worth it! While you might think that sunscreen is less necessary in the fall, the sun can still be pretty strong during football season.
We recommend choosing a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and water resistant. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it indicates how well the sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. The higher the SPF, the better.
Water-resistant sunscreen is also a good choice for game days, as you'll likely sweat a bit during the course of the afternoon.
A Cool Links® Cooling Towel
You might not think you need a cooling towel if you're just sitting in the stands, but it's worth it to bring one along. Cool Links® cooling towels are made from a special fabric that helps to keep you cool, even in the hottest weather.
To use a Cool Links® Cooling Towel, simply slip the reusable frozen cubes into the fabric, snap the magnetic clasp shut around your neck, and enjoy up to two hours of cooling comfort. After the frozen cubes have thawed, you can still get relief from the heat by wetting the towel or swapping them out for a new set of cubes.
Cool Links® towels are made from moisture-wicking fabric, so they'll also help you stay dry and comfortable during the game. Plus, they come in a variety of team colors to help you show your support for your favorite NFL, college, or local team.
Did you know you can get custom Cool Links® made for your local sports team? We've done brand partnerships with a wide array of teams, offering custom-made cooling towels with their logo and colors on them. If you coach a team or play for one, we'd love to help you stay cool while representing your squad.
You Can't Forget a High-Quality Pair of Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren't just for the summertime. In fact, they can be even more important in the fall, when the sun is low in the sky and its rays are more likely to hit you directly in the eyes.
This is especially important if you're going to be tailgating, as you'll likely be spending quite a bit of time in direct sunlight. Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, and make sure they're comfortable to wear so you can keep them on all day long.
You might be wondering whether polarized or mirrored sunglasses are the better choice for game day. Polarized lenses reduce glare, making them a solid choice for activities like driving or fishing. However, mirrored lenses actually reflect light away from your eyes, so they're the better choice for sun protection during a big game.
Pack an Insulated Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is a must no matter what you're doing, but it's especially crucial when you're spending time outdoors in the heat. If you're tailgating or attending an outdoor game, be sure to bring an insulated water bottle to keep your drinks cold. This will help you stay hydrated and avoid becoming overheated.
There are a variety of different types of insulated water bottles on the market, so choose one that best suits your needs. For example, if you'll be sitting in the stands, you might want a water bottle with a strap or clip so you can attach it to your bag or belt. If you're going to be walking around, look for a water bottle that's easy to carry.
It's also important to choose an insulated water bottle that keeps drinks cold for a long time. This way, you won't have to worry about your drink getting warm in the sun. Look for a bottle made from materials like stainless steel or double-walled glass, as these are the best at retaining cold temperatures.
Grab a Hat That Provides Sun Protection
Not only will a hat help keep you warm in cooler weather, but it can also provide sun protection if you're sitting in the stands. If you'll be spending any time outdoors, look for a hat that offers Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) sun protection.
UPF-rated hats are made from materials that block out harmful UV rays, and they come in a variety of styles. For example, if you're looking for maximum sun protection, choose a wide-brimmed hat. If you want something that's more stylish and less functional, go for a visor or baseball cap.
In addition to UPF-rated hats, you can also find sun-protective clothing that offers UPF protection. This includes items like long-sleeved shirts, pants, and even some types of sunglasses.
If you'll be spending time outdoors, consider investing in UPF-rated clothing to keep your skin safe from the sun's rays.
Eat Healthy Snacks for Energy
When you're watching a football game, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to eat. However, it's important to keep your energy levels up so you can last all game long. Pack some healthy snacks with you to munch on throughout the day, such as fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, or whole grain crackers.
Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, as they will cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates, which will give you sustained energy throughout the game.
If you're tailgating before the game, consider preparing some healthy snacks ahead of time. This way, you won't have to worry about buying unhealthy food at the stadium. Some tasty tailgating snacks to try include veggie trays with hummus, whole grain pretzels, or roasted nuts.
Bring a Sweatshirt or Hoodie
Even if the weather is warm when you leave for the game, it can quickly cool down once the sun goes down. That's why it's always a good idea to bring a sweatshirt or hoodie with you, just in case. This way, you'll be prepared if the temperature drops and you start to feel cold.
If you don't want to carry a sweatshirt around all day, consider packing it in a bag that you can easily carry. This way, you won't have to worry about lugging a heavy jacket around all day.
Have you ever worn a French terry hoodie? They're extremely comfortable and perfect for chilly weather. If you don't have one, consider investing in one for football season. You'll be glad you did when you're in the stands and the temperature starts to drop.
Choose Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking when you're at a football game, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes. Avoid wearing sandals or open-toed shoes, as they offer no support and can leave your feet feeling sore by the end of the day. Instead, opt for closed-toe shoes that provide good arch support.
If you'll be sitting in the stands, you might want to consider wearing sneakers or hiking boots. This way, you'll be able to easily walk around and explore the stadium without having to worry about your feet.
No matter what type of shoes you choose, make sure they're comfortable and will support your feet throughout the day. You don't want to end up with sore feet after a long day at the football game.
Grab an Extra Phone Charger
These days, it's rare to see someone without a smartphone at a football game. Whether you're taking pictures, checking scores, or keeping up with social media, your phone is a valuable tool when you're at the game. However, all that use can quickly drain your battery.
To avoid being stranded without a working phone, bring an extra charger with you to the game. This way, you can charge your phone if it starts to run low on battery.
If you don't have an extra charger, consider borrowing one from a friend or family member. Or, look for a charging station at the stadium. Many stadiums now offer these stations so fans can charge their phones while they're at the game.
A Blanket or Stadium Seat Cushion
Whether you're sitting in the stands or watching the game from the comfort of your own home, it's important to be comfortable. That's why you should bring a blanket or stadium seat cushion with you to the game. This way, you can sit back and relax without having to worry about being uncomfortable.
If you're sitting in the stands, a stadium seat cushion can also help you stay warm. Just put it on your seat, and it will act as an extra layer of insulation. You'll be glad you have it when the temperature gets lower as the sun goes down.
Get Ready for Game Day With Cool Links®
So, what are you waiting for?
Get your game-day essentials — including a Cool Links® Cooling Towel — today! You'll be glad you did when you're sitting in the stands and cheering on your favorite team.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic Q and A: Sunscreen Best Practices | Mayo Clinic News Network
