I’ve been camping and overlanding for a long time, and in that stretch, I’ve tested and used all sorts of gear. On that list is the Tailgater Tire Table.
As you can see above, it’s a pretty simple setup (and named very aptly!). It’s a table that hooks onto a tire to give you a stable workspace at camp. It’s really that simple!
But how does it work? What are its best uses? Is it easy to transport? These and other essential questions about the Tailgater Tire Table are answered in this guide!
Table of Contents
- What is the Tailgater Tire Table?
- How Does the Tailgater Tire Table Work?
- Is the Table Durable?
- Is the Tailgater Tire Table Easy to Transport?
- What Can the Table Be Used For?
What is the Tailgater Tire Table?
As I noted in the introduction, the Tailgater Tire Table is aptly named because it is exactly as it’s described. It’s a table that fits on a tire!
The table comes in two sizes:
You can get both sizes of table in aluminum, silver aluminum, or steel. The advantage of the aluminum tables is that they’re lighter. For example, the large aluminum table weighs eight pounds. The large steel table weighs 16 pounds.
In either case, the large-sized Tire Table accommodates up to 75 pounds of gear on top. The aluminum version can support 50 pounds. So, while you can’t use it as a chair, the Tire Table has beefy enough construction to support a lot of weight.
How Does the Tailgater Tire Table Work?
As I demonstrate in my video above, installation of the Tire Table is about as straightforward as it comes. No tools are required – simply attach two short extensions on the bottom of the table, extend the rear “hook,” and slide the hook over the top of a tire.
Next, push the Tire Table toward the tire until the two short extensions contact the tire. Once this happens, the combination of the two extensions on the front of the tire and the hook on the back of the tire keeps the table in place.
For added stability, the Tire Table’s front leg can be deployed. Prop it against the tire or the ground – either way, you’ve got a rock-solid setup for your table.
Really, the only requirement for this table to work is that there’s about two inches of clearance between the tire and the fender. And unless you have some truly enormous tires, this table will fit on virtually all car, truck, SUV, and trailer tires. In fact, the large Tire Table fits on tires up to 50 inches tall and 20 inches wide!
Is the Table Durable?
It goes without saying that the Tire Table is extremely durable. The all-metal construction is a good start. But both the steel and aluminum versions are powder-coated to prevent rust.
As I discuss in my full Tailgater Tire Table review, the build quality is outstanding, too. I don’t abuse my gear, but I certainly haven’t always been gentle with my Tire Tables. And yet, they continue to do their jobs well!
Besides, when you head off-road and you’re bouncing around on a washboarded trail, your gear is going to take a beating. Having something like the Tire Table that won’t crack (like a plastic table), rust, or bend gives you the peace of mind that when you get to camp, you’ll have a reliable and sturdy table when you need it.
Another element of the table’s durability is this – you can set hot skillets and pots directly on top of it, unlike with a plastic table. Sure, you can find bigger, lighter tables with plastic tops, but you sacrifice usability in favor of a lighter material. No thanks!
Is the Tailgater Tire Table Easy to Transport?
Another stand-out feature of the Tire Table is its compact design. Whether you get the standard or large-size table, you can easily slide it into the back of your truck or SUV or put it in a storage compartment in a trailer. Alternatively, as shown above, you can lash it to the spare tire on your trailer and be on your merry way.
Transporting the table is made easier because there’s really no dismantling required. Just remove the two bottom extensions I spoke of earlier (and the leg, if you used it), slide the rear hook in, and you’re done!
What Can the Table Be Used For?
When I go camping or overlanding, I need a table to pull double duty. Well, actually, I need a table to perform many duties! The Tire Table is the perfect solution whether I need to:
- Prepare meals
- Eat a meal
- Get work done
- Play games with my son
- Have a spot for gadgets like a portable power station
And when I’m not camping, the Tailgater Tire Table comes in handy for other uses. When I’m working on my Jeep, for example, I can use the table as a handy spot to keep my tools. When I head to the beach with my son, I can use the table to keep water, snacks, sunscreen, and other necessities.
Of course, the Tailgater Tire Table is at home in the parking lot of your favorite sports team, in your driveway for a neighborhood BBQ, and many points in between.
In other words, the Tire Table is about as versatile, functional, and durable as you can get. I’ve had a couple of these tables for a couple of years now, and I’ve been impressed at every turn.
In fact, when I get to camp, the first accessory I get out is the Tire Table. When it’s time to pack up and head home, the Tire Table is the last thing that goes back in the Jeep. I use my table from the moment I arrive to the moment I leave – and if you invest in one, you’ll be in the same boat, I’m sure!
Just so you know, some of the cool stuff we mention comes with affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission if you buy (no extra charge to you!). Plus, we occasionally feature sponsored content, but rest assured, we only shout out products we genuinely stand behind.