To host your first backyard BBQ you need four things: the BBQ itself, a fuel supply, a few good tools, and a way to keep it clean and protected. Everything else is a nice extra. Here is the full checklist.
1. The BBQ
Choose the size for the way you cook and the space you have. Our guide to choosing a BBQ size walks you through 2, 4 and 5 burner options. Browse the Coleman® Revolution™ range or the Pro Series.
2. Fuel
- LPG: you need a gas bottle. Most service stations and hardware stores sell or swap them.
- Natural gas: you need a natural gas model and a licensed gas fitter to connect it.
- Charcoal: only if you choose a dual fuel BBQ. Keep a bag of quality charcoal dry and on hand.
Never use a gas BBQ indoors, in a garage or in any enclosed space.
3. The tools that matter
You do not need a drawer full of gadgets. You need tongs, a spatula and a fork that are long enough to keep your hands away from the heat.
- Coleman® 3 Piece BBQ Tool Set: the essentials
- Coleman® 11 Piece BBQ Tool Set with Case: a fuller set that stays organised in its case
A meat thermometer is also worth having. It takes the guesswork out of chicken, pork and thick steaks.
4. A cooking surface for everything else
A grill is perfect for meat. For eggs, onions, seafood and vegetables, a hotplate works better. Coleman® double-sided cast iron hotplates have a smooth side for delicate food and a ridged side for searing:
- Double-Sided Cast Iron Hotplate for Revolution™ BBQs
- Pro Series Double-Sided Cast Iron Hotplate for Pro Series BBQs
5. Cleaning and protection
- A grill brush with a scraper, such as the Palmyra Twisted Bristle Brush, for cleaning grates while they are still warm.
- A fitted cover to protect the BBQ from sun, rain and salt air. Choose the size that matches your BBQ in our covers range.
6. Safety checks before the first cook
- Read the assembly manual for your model. You can download it from our Support page.
- Check the hose and regulator connections for leaks with soapy water. Bubbles mean a leak — turn off the gas and fix it before lighting.
- Place the BBQ on a flat, stable surface, clear of walls, fences and anything that can burn.
- Keep children and pets away from the BBQ while it is hot.
7. The nice extras
Once the basics are covered, think about comfort and convenience: bench space for prep, somewhere cold for drinks, and storage close at hand. That is exactly what Coleman® outdoor kitchen modules are for.
Your printable checklist
- BBQ, assembled and leak-tested
- Gas bottle, or natural gas connected by a licensed gas fitter
- Tongs, spatula and fork
- Meat thermometer
- Hotplate for eggs, onions and seafood
- Grill brush with scraper
- Fitted cover
- Assembly manual saved for later