BBQ gear can get expensive fast. Here's what makes the biggest difference, in the order we'd buy it.
1. A good thermometer (or two)
An instant-read thermometer is the single most important tool you can own. Add a leave-in probe thermometer for long cooks so you can track pit and meat temperatures without opening the lid.
2. A cooker that holds steady heat
- Kettle grill: versatile and affordable, and it can smoke with a two-zone setup.
- Pellet smoker: set-and-forget temperature control.
- Offset smoker: classic flavor, more fire management.
- Kamado: excellent heat retention for both smoking and searing.
3. Fire and handling tools
- A chimney starter for lighting charcoal without lighter fluid
- Long-handled locking tongs
- Heat-resistant gloves
- A sturdy grill brush or scraper
4. The finishing touches
Butcher paper for wrapping, a big cutting board with a juice groove, a sharp slicing knife and a spray bottle for spritzing round out the kit.
Browse our BBQ books and gear. Partner products are clearly marked, and we only list items we'd use ourselves.