The right tools can make or break your BBQ session. Over the years, I’ve amassed a great variety of thermometers, knives, and coolers that make grilling fun and successful. Choosing a favorite is hard, but I’ve compiled a list of my top 7 items. I hope this roundup inspires you to grow your BBQ tool collection and have fun treating yourself!
I take these tools on the circuit, and they’re a comfortable staple in my backyard. Any of these items would make a wonderful gift for yourself or the pitmaster in your life. Guaranteed, they’ll make anyone feel like king of the BBQ world.
Heath’s 7 Must-Have BBQ Tools
When in doubt, use a tool! These items will enrich your experience and, in some cases, make your life easier. From thermometers to coolers, this roundup has something for everyone. I’ve also included options for every budget!
Without further ado, here are my 7 must-have BBQ tools.
ThermoWorks
Every BBQ master knows that every second counts, especially when grilling good grub! The ThermoWorks ThermaPen ONE gives you an accurate reading within one second. It comes in a variety of colors that fit anyone’s style.
Night chefs will appreciate the backlight, which automatically adjusts to your lighting. Plus, it has an auto-rotating display, keeping you constantly in the know. With a 5-year warranty, you’ve got nothing to lose.
#2. ThermoWorks ChefAlarm
If you can’t watch the grill all day, you’ll want to snag a ChefAlarm. This product won the America’s Test Kitchen award..and for good reason! You can use this alarm to make candy, roasts, briskets, ribs, and more.
With a high and low alarm setting, you can choose the noise level that fits your needs. The ChefAlarm resists moisture better than any other alarm on the market. Plus, it has a large display screen that lights up in the dark. It doesn’t get much better than that!
#3. Victorinox Chef Knives
Did you know it’s more dangerous to work with a dull knife than a sharp one? It’s true! To keep your fingers intact and your cuts clean, go with Victronix Chef’s Knives. These Swiss knives have thin blades to chop meat, veggies, and herbs easily. These knives are not bulky, are easy to handle, and get the job done fast!
With a non-slip handle, your knife will stay firmly within your grasp. I love these knives, and the fact that they have a lifetime guarantee makes them even better. If you’re having a hard time choosing which knife to get, go with the Chef’s knife. It’s the most versatile for pitmasters.
Royal Oak
#4. Royal Oak Charcoal
Royal Oak Charcoal has been my choice for years. Royal Oak doesn’t include any fillers in their charcoal, giving you a pure, clean smoke. This charcoal lights fast and burns hot and fast, pushing out just the right amount of smoke.
Royal Oak Charcoal comes in hardwood pellets, super-sized briquets, and all-natural briquets. I love Royal Oak because their products are made right in America from all-natural American hardwood. Whether you’re grilling burgers or Wagyu, Royal Oak is the way to go.
#5. Royal Oak Tumbleweeds
Are you tired of using lighter fluid? Try Royal Oak’s Tumbleweeds. They’re made with wood and wax and include no toxic fillers. I use Tumbleweeds all the time, especially when using the Weber Kettle Grill. They help the chimney light quickly without any gross fumes.
Royal Oak Tumbleweeds are durable and the perfect companion for outdoor adventures. Try them the next time you go camping or start a bonfire. You won’t be disappointed. Once you have a box, you’ll never want to be without them.
YETI
#6. YETI Roadie 48 Cooler
Like all of YETI’s products, the Roadie 48 Cooler is built tough because life is meant for taking risks! The YETI Roadie 48 Cooler is one of the best hard coolers around. It holds up to 76 cans OR 54 pounds of ice. Why does a pitmaster need a cooler? To transport meat, of course! This cooler features double-walled insulation, keeping your meat fresh until you reach your destination. This cooler includes a retractable handle for easy transportation and non-stick feet to keep it steady on rocky boating trips.
You can also rest your meat in the cooler. With all that room, you can store meat, veggies, sauces, and a few cold ones. You’ll be the most popular guy in town!
#7. YETI Loadout GoBox 60
Life’s a journey; you never know where it’ll take you. The YETI Loadout GoBox 60 keeps all your adventuring supplies close. It keeps dust, moisture, and grime out with its virtually indestructible material.
The YETI Loadout GoBox 60 features removable organizers with a “stack and pack” design. With the “pack attic” section, you can use every bit of space. If you like collector's items, you’ll adore this gearbox that comes in a limited-edition army green. You can take the YETI Loadout GoBox 60 hiking, fishing, hunting, or road-tripping.
What would you add to this list? Share your favorite BBQ tools in the comments!