The Traeger Tailgater is a popular choice among portable pellet grill enthusiasts, especially those who love to barbecue on the go. Whether it’s for a weekend camping trip, a tailgate party before the big game, or a simple backyard cookout, the Tailgater provides that classic Traeger wood-fired flavor in a compact package. However, one common limitation users encounter is the smaller hopper capacity. This is where the Traeger Tailgater hopper extension comes into play a smart upgrade for anyone looking to increase their grill’s efficiency and reduce the need for frequent pellet refills during long cooking sessions.
What Is a Hopper Extension?
A hopper extension is an accessory that increases the storage capacity of the pellet hopper on a grill. For the Traeger Tailgater, which comes with a modest hopper capacity of around 8 pounds, a hopper extension can effectively double or even triple that amount, depending on the design. This upgrade is particularly useful for low-and-slow cooking, such as smoking briskets, pork shoulders, or ribs for several hours at a time.
Why the Hopper Extension Matters
Without an extension, users may find themselves needing to refill pellets multiple times during longer cooks, which can interrupt the temperature consistency and overall cooking process. The hopper extension helps to:
- Extend uninterrupted cooking time
- Improve heat consistency by avoiding mid-cook pellet refills
- Allow for longer smoking sessions, especially overnight
- Reduce hands-on monitoring, making the process more convenient
For tailgating or events where attention is divided, having more pellets loaded up front allows you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than managing the grill.
Compatibility with the Traeger Tailgater
One concern many grill owners have is whether a hopper extension will fit their specific model. The Traeger Tailgater’s smaller frame and design mean not all standard extensions will work without modification. However, several third-party manufacturers, as well as DIY solutions, cater specifically to the Tailgater or can be easily adapted.
Choosing the Right Extension
When shopping for or creating a hopper extension for the Tailgater, it’s important to consider:
- Dimensions: It must align properly with the existing hopper opening.
- Material: Powder-coated steel is ideal for durability and heat resistance.
- Capacity: Most extensions add an extra 8-10 pounds of pellets.
- Ease of installation: Bolt-on or drop-in styles are common.
Some DIY enthusiasts have repurposed small metal containers or customized aftermarket accessories to fit the Traeger Tailgater’s hopper. As long as the seal is secure and the pellets feed correctly into the auger system, these solutions can work just as well as branded options.
Installation Tips and Considerations
Installing a hopper extension on the Traeger Tailgater is generally straightforward, but a few considerations can ensure the best results:
1. Turn Off and Cool Down the Grill
Always make sure your grill is completely off and cool before attempting to install any accessories.
2. Remove the Hopper Lid
Depending on the extension design, you may need to remove or modify the existing hopper lid. Some models allow the lid to be reused on top of the extension.
3. Check for a Tight Fit
The extension should sit flush with the original hopper and create a seal that prevents rain, debris, or insects from entering.
4. Test Pellet Flow
After installation, test the pellet feed by filling the hopper and watching the auger. Ensure there are no jams or uneven flows caused by the added height or weight.
Taking these steps will help maintain proper pellet feeding, which is crucial for even heating and grill performance.
Benefits of Using a Hopper Extension for Tailgating
The Traeger Tailgater is already designed with portability in mind, but when combined with a hopper extension, it becomes even more versatile. Whether you’re at a football game, RV camping, or hosting an outdoor event, the added pellet capacity offers several benefits.
Extended Cook Times
With a hopper extension, you can smoke meats for 8-12 hours without needing to refill. This makes it ideal for larger cuts or dishes that require a slow and steady cooking process.
Hands-Off Cooking
Once the grill is preheated and loaded with pellets, you can relax and let it do the work. The extension reduces the need to constantly check pellet levels, especially during overnight smokes.
Improved Temperature Stability
Constant pellet feeding helps the Traeger maintain a consistent cooking temperature, which is essential for tender, juicy results. Fewer interruptions mean better outcomes, especially for temperature-sensitive recipes.
More Time to Enjoy the Event
Tailgating is all about fun, food, and good company. A hopper extension lets you spend less time managing the grill and more time socializing and enjoying the game or gathering.
Maintaining Your Hopper and Extension
To keep your Traeger Tailgater and hopper extension in good working condition, regular maintenance is key. Over time, dust, pellet fragments, and grease can accumulate and affect performance.
Cleaning Tips
- Empty the hopper after every few uses to prevent moisture buildup.
- Wipe down the inside with a dry cloth or vacuum out remaining pellet dust.
- Inspect the extension for rust or wear, especially if it’s stored outdoors.
- Ensure the hopper lid seals properly to keep out rain or insects.
By taking good care of both the hopper and extension, you ensure optimal pellet flow and prevent potential issues during long cooks.
Is It Worth Upgrading?
If you frequently use your Traeger Tailgater for smoking or long cookouts, especially away from home, a hopper extension is a worthwhile upgrade. While it may seem like a small addition, it significantly enhances convenience, cook duration, and overall experience. For serious tailgaters and outdoor chefs, the benefits are immediate and practical.
Considerations Before Buying
- How often do you smoke meat for 6+ hours?
- Do you find pellet refills interrupt your cooking?
- Are you cooking in places where monitoring the grill is hard?
If you answered yes to any of these, adding a hopper extension to your Tailgater is likely a smart investment.
The Traeger Tailgater hopper extension is a small but impactful accessory that solves one of the grill’s main limitations limited pellet capacity. By increasing your hopper size, you open the door to longer, smoother cooking sessions with fewer interruptions. Whether you’re slow-smoking brisket for the big game or grilling for friends in the backyard, this simple addition can elevate your entire experience. With proper installation and maintenance, the hopper extension becomes a valuable part of your grilling toolkit, making your Traeger Tailgater more efficient, reliable, and enjoyable to use wherever your barbecue adventures take you.