One of America’s favorite traditions is having a good old fashion barbecue. How people conduct such events may vary in many ways, but the fundamentals at its core remain pretty consistent. Regardless of how you like to get your grill on, we’re going to outline what you’ll need for the perfect barbecue setup!

Let’s Start With The Grill

There’s been a long (seemingly never-ending) debate as to which is the superior grill: gas or charcoal. We’re going to tell you the truth (and it might hurt some of you), but the answer is neither. Both types have it’s sets of pros and cons and each serves more specific purposes that can make the lives easier of the owners, depending on what they cook and how they do things.

The real question is choosing the right tool for the job. That’s where we come in!

Pros of Charcoal

  • They Last Longer: Like most things, this is a double-edged sword. While gas grills tend to have more features, those very same bells and whistles tend to depreciate their lifespans while charcoal grills tend to live longer lives.
  • The Food Tastes Better: This is obviously subject to opinion, but most will agree that the flavor result is superior with charcoal. It’s the main things that justify the cons listed below.
  • The Smell of The Process: In my opinion, there’s no better feeling than cooking over a charcoal grill. The fumes just smell of summer and that’s something gas will never be able to replicate.

Cons of Charcoal

  • Things Can Get Messy
  • Cleaning and prepping a charcoal grill is typically dirtier, especially if you use old charcoal to save money. I expect to get dirty while prepping from the ash and coals and get cleaned up before its time to prep the food.
  • Inferior Flame Management
  • You can arrange the coals to fit what you’re trying to make, but it’s not the same as gas. You can simply turn the ignitor on/off and manage the flames with ease, while that is not possible on charcoal.

Pros of Gas

  • The Entire Process Is Easier
  • Everything from starting the flame, from cleaning the grill is simply more convenient. The grills tend to look nicer as well.
  • Propane is Cheaper Than Charcoal
  • Cost of fuel is cheaper for gas grills, which can save you a lot of money depending on how often you like to barbecue.
  • Temperature is Easier to Control
  • Back to flame management. Point, gas!

Cons of Gas

  • Grills Are More Expensive
  • While the fuel is cheaper, the models themselves tend to be more expensive. They also take more attention to maintain.

Preferred Brands for Gas & Charcoal

Which Is Best For You?

The truth is, it depends on you!

Grilling Accessories

Here’s what we recommend:

  • Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Basting Brush
  • Scraper
  • Thermometer

Party Activities!

While you’re cooking (and after the fact), you’re sure to have all kinds of things going on for a fun barbecue. More activities means more people can have fun.

Here are some favorites that can get anyone ready for a summer party: