Truck Tailgate Guide: How to Tailgate with a Truck

A truck tailgate party is a social event held at a truck's tailgate. Such parties commonly involve tasty food, alcoholic beverages, barbecues, games, music, friendly banter, etc., to ensure a cherished celebration. Truck tailgate parties explore fun ways to celebrate an event, concert, favorite team, music festival, etc.

With the appropriate gear and preparation, you can enhance your tailgating experience. You need an efficient solar-powered generator if you want to keep your devices charged to ensure a flawless tailgate party experience. Jackery Solar Generators are reliable and portable charging solutions. They deliver efficient charging output to keep your devices charged for long hours without hassles.

What Is Truck Tailgate

At first glance, it may seem confusing when you hear — what is a tailgate on a truck? A truck tailgate is a door or an entrance at the rear of a truck bed. To load or unload the truck's cargo, you merely need to open the tailgate to ascertain the safety of your valuables while driving.

The truck tailgates meet protective and functional purposes, making your truck bed easily accessible and secure. A practical tailgate truck can augment practicality and style to promise a hassle-free and cheerful tailgating experience.

A truck tailgate party is a social event held with friends and family on a truck's open tailgate. These gatherings usually occur in Canada and the United States, specifically during concerts, sports, or other significant events.

In truck tailgate parties, people enjoy grilled food, barbecue, alcoholic beverages, music, playing games, etc. The tailgate truck's overall setup ensures the tailgate area transforms into a temporary hub for friendly banter, camaraderie, and team spirit.

Types of Truck Tailgates

A tailgate protects the truck's cargo and also presents an appealing look to the truck. Understanding what a tailgate is on a truck is not sufficient. To ensure a perfect tailgating experience, you must also be familiar with the types of truck tailgates. Considering cargo capacity, intended usage, safety, and personal preference will help you easily pick the most suitable truck tailgate. Here are some of the major types of tailgate trucks.

Traditional Tailgate

The traditional tailgate is the most common form of truck tailgate. It swings down to open and can be fully detached for large cargo. You will find this kind of tailgate on most pickup trucks, including older models. It lets you easily access the truck bed.

Drop-Down Tailgate

It is hinged at the bottom and drops when functioning as a work surface. The design of this tailgate truck allows you to elevate and lower the tailgate with mechanisms like hydraulic assistance or counterbalance systems.

Multi-Panel Tailgate

You can easily fold or wholly remove this tailgate to simplify cargo loading and unloading. Some models may also come with a built-in step to facilitate climbing into the truck bed.

The design shows multiple panels, each uniquely configured to access the truck bed. For instance, some panels may stay upright while others fold down. As a result, multi-panel tailgates support multiple load configurations.

Barn Door Tailgate

If you need to access cargo in restricted spaces, a barn door tailgate comes in handy. The design showcases two doors opening like barn doors. Two doors open horizontally, identical to barn doors. The owners of pickup trucks can independently open these doors, offering convenient access to truck beds in limited spaces.

Split Tailgate

As implied by its name, this tailgate is divided into two sections, each opening independently. Thus, you can easily access the truck bed without compromising cargo security.

Features of Truck Tailgate

A truck tailgate supports various features to ensure adequate safety, lighting, tailgate release, and easy access. Let's familiarize ourselves with some of the prominent features of truck tailgates.

Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism secures a tailgate in place to prevent it from opening. Usually, tailgates open up due to loose hinges or locks. Irrespective of the strength of the hinges or locks, the locking mechanism ensures the utmost safety of a truck tailgate.

Lighting

Many of the cutting-edge pickup tailgates are equipped with LED lights. These lights illuminate the truck bend effectively, ensuring proper visibility and easy access to cargo in dim light conditions.

Tailgate Release

The tailgate release mechanism is found in most pickup trucks. Usually, a button or handle controls this mechanism. A handle/button unlatches and lowers the tailgate for convenient release of the tailgate.

Rearview Camera

Generally, higher trim levels or optional packages come with a rearview camera fixed on the tailgate. It assists with easy backing up and steering, particularly when towing. Moreover, they present a clear view of the space behind the truck when reversing.

Tailgate Applique

Some trucks' tailgates feature attractive badges, logos, or appliqués. These elements represent the truck's trim level or branding and protect the tailgate against dings and scratches.

Tailgate Tool Boxes

Pickup truck toolboxes are found in some tailgates. They are heavy-duty chests located on the rear of a pickup truck. They can perfectly hold, carry, and organize tiny tools to avoid sliding around in the truck's rear. You can add these toolboxes to the truck with the help of aftermarket options.

Top 5 Trucks for Tailgating

A tailgate party can be more joyous if you choose an appropriate truck wisely. Assessing the features, benefits, and usage of some of the topmost trucks will help you easily select the most suitable one. Here are details of some of the recommended trucks for a tailgate party.

Honda Ridgeline

Honda Ridgeline is a rugged, versatile truck with a dual-action tailgate. It is also equipped with a V-6 engine and an i-VTM4 AWD system.

Features

• The trunk of this truck can double as a makeshift trash can, ensuring easy cleanup after a tailgate party.
• The tailgate is double-hinged, so it can open traditionally and swing open like a door.
• When it opens as a door, it provides easy access to the main compartment of the bed.

Pros

• It is the only truck to provide side hinges.
• It can swing open completely sideways for convenient access.
• The tires can effectively work on all terrains.

Usages

It provides additional space to lock away your valuables without occupying space in the cab. For game day, you can use it as a cooler to store your preferred food and beverages, cook utensils, cups, plates, etc.

Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 incorporates two of the latest Hurricane engines (3.0L) to provide 6-cylinder horsepower. It is also equipped with a world-class sound system that streamlines your tailgate party experience.

Features

• It can easily swing open from the right, left, or center.
• A retractable central-fitted step option provides easy access to the truck bed.
• A remote opening option is available.

Pros

• The built-in storage is available on the side rails to efficiently use the previously unused space.
• The truck provides more space to store your multiple valuables.
• The premium leather seating ensures great comfort.

Usages

The tailgate opens like a 60/40 barn door, swaying out to each side of a truck bed. You can use it to open one side or both sides or keep it closed at any particular time. The unique opening mechanism is useful in tight spaces.

Ford F-450

The Ford F-450 has a spacious cabin for easy access to valuables. The implementation of the latest technologies ensures that bulky loads can be towed and hauled efficiently.

Features

• Ford F-450 simplifies climbing up in the truck bed. For this, it comes with a fold-down/pull-out step and a grab bar.
• The built-in tailgate step with the tailgate helps you to easily access the entire payload.
• Lights in the taillamps provide a visual aid. Smart Hitch technology ensures efficient and easy towing.

Pros

• It provides a large space for storing your valuables.
• The 5G in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot is accessible up to 50 feet outside the truck.
• It can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.

Usages

It has an AM/FM stereo and MP3 player to ensure uninterrupted entertainment during the tailgate party. The durable chassis lets the truck support a mega payload capacity, making it useful for carrying bulky valuables.

GMC Sierra

The truck has the world's foremost six-function MultiPro tailgate. The gas engine (5.3L) is efficient enough to help you confidently tackle the open road. The truck can go through even the toughest terrains.

Features

• Two buttons control the tailgate. Alternatively, you can open it from within the cab.
• The full-width step is extremely robust and is equipped with a grab handle for easy access to the truck bed.
• People can climb up easily for clear viewing.

Pros

• A level and flat surface is present around bar height. It allows you to stash your food and drink, providing a home-like feel.
• LED headlamps provide excellent illumination.
• The recovery hooks provide secure support whenever you need assistance.

Usages

A smaller tailgate is available within the tailgate to suit different job scenarios. It helps hold items in place, as a work surface, or as a step for convenient access.

Ford F-150 Hybrid

The advanced technology implemented in this Ford truck optimizes its power and performance. The Pro Power Onboard provides an instant energy source in the truck bed. The available outlets fulfill all your power needs.

Features

• Ford F-150 Hybrid has a step-down for convenient bed access.  
• The design shows a ruler, pencil holders, tablet and phone nooks, and a cup holder, so you can easily stash and access your key essentials on the go.
• On the smaller Maverick, the truck provides a QR code with recommendations for configuring various tasks' organizing mechanisms.

Pros

• Ford's PowerBoost technology allows you to drive around with a built-in generator. This generator can simultaneously power various devices, such as a blender, hotplate, coffee pot, etc.
• Multiple wattage configurations are available.
• It allows you to use the truck as a mobile generator.

Usages

It can be helpful for lighting if the tailgate powers late and your tailgate party lasts longer. Usually, it is used for late-night tailgate parties.

Truck Tailgate Accessories

Personalizing a tailgate truck is possible with the help of tailgate accessories. They can make your tailgate more functional and make your investment worthwhile. 

Here are some of the most useful truck tailgate accessories.

Tailgate Nets

A tailgate net keeps cargo intact within the truck bed while driving. It is lightweight and has an easy installation mechanism.

Tailgate Lifts

A tailgate lift allows the automatic opening and closing of a truck's tailgate. It is very helpful for people with mobility issues.

Ramps

It can be daunting to haul massive cargo like motorcycles and bicycles. You can use ramps to overcome such scenarios, ensuring easy hauling of even the bulkiest cargo.

Steps

If you are on the shorter side of the truck, it becomes difficult to access the truck bed. The steps ensure easy access to truck beds. You can affix them to a tailgate to ensure convenient access to the truck bed.

Cargo Management Systems

Cargo management systems make cargo organization straightforward. Tie-downs, dividers, and adjustable compartments help you organize and fasten your cargo.

A reliable power source is inevitable for keeping your necessary devices charged in the truck tailgate and ensuring a successful tailgating experience. Investing in a Jackery Solar Generator offers a reliable power solution to keep your devices operating smoothly.

Jackery Solar Generators for Truck Tailgates

Tailgate parties often use different electrical appliances, such as electric grills, TVs, projectors, coolers, portable fans, lights, etc. Solar generators are eco-friendly charging solutions that use the sun's energy and can charge most tailgate appliances. They do not emit noise or toxic fumes, making them ideal for nearby people and the environment.

Jackery is a well-known solar brand that manufactures solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels. The Jackery Solar Generators combine Jackery Portable Power Stations and Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels to collect, convert, and supply electricity to tailgate appliances. They are portable by nature and can be transported easily to outdoor locations.

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus is a small solar-powered generator ideal for tailgate parties with a few people. It can charge most small tailgate appliances, such as speakers, lights, smartphones, etc. It has a foldable handle and compact design and can be safely carried to outdoor locations. It's compatible with iPad-sized solar panels that can fit into the backpack, making transportation much easier.

Appliances Running Time

• Tailgate Speaker (50W) = 4.8H
• Tailgate Lights (50W) = 4.8H
• Cooler (150W) = 1.6H
• Portable Fan (100W) = 2.4H
• Projector (200W) = 1.2H

Customer Review

“The perfect power for my overall use. It comes with me everywhere and charges all my items. Love it!” — Terry.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is a large-capacity generator that can charge up to 99% of small to large appliances, such as refrigerators, coolers, lights, etc. It's also suitable for tailgate parties that require outdoor cooking with the help of portable grills, cooktops, etc. One important thing to note is that the battery capacity can be easily expanded from 1.2kWh to 5kWh with the help of the additional Jackery Battery Pack 1000 Plus.

Appliances Running Time

• Tailgate Speaker (50W) = 21.4H
• Tailgate Lights (50W) = 21.4H
• Cooler (150W) = 7.1H
• Portable Fan (100W) = 10.7H
• Projector (200W) = 5.3H
• Portable Grill (1000W) = 1.0H