THE GIFT LIST

Unique gifts for BBQ lovers

5 best gifts for BBQ lovers

BBQ lovers don't need much of an excuse. A dry afternoon is enough to get the charcoal going, and they've got strong opinions on rubs, sauces and how long to rest a steak. These gifts for BBQ lovers cover lighting, cooking and serving on the grill, so you don't need to know which barbecue they've got.

Shopping links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. We've researched these picks but haven't tested them ourselves. About our links.

  1. MEATER Plus wireless meat thermometer

    MEATER Plus wireless meat thermometer

    MEATER Plus is a meat thermometer with no wires at all. The probe reads both the meat's internal temperature and the heat around it, and the MEATER app estimates how long the cook has left. It connects over Bluetooth at up to 165ft, and the probe goes in the dishwasher.

    Pros

    • Reads meat and ambient temperature.
    • App estimates the time left.
    • Probe is dishwasher safe.

    Cons

    • Needs a phone and the MEATER app.
    View on Amazon UK
    Product sources

    MEATER product page ↗

  2. Weber Rapidfire chimney starter

    Weber Rapidfire chimney starter

    A chimney starter is the quickest way to get charcoal going without lighter fluid. Weber's Rapidfire is aluminised steel with two handles, and a couple of lit lighter cubes underneath get the coals started.

    Pros

    • Lights charcoal without lighter fluid.
    • Two handles for tipping out the coals.

    Cons

    • Charcoal barbecues only.
    View on Amazon UK
    Product sources

    Weber product page ↗

  3. Lodge cast iron grill press

    Lodge cast iron grill press

    A grill press keeps steaks, chops and chicken flat against the grill for a better sear. Lodge's is cast iron, made in the USA and comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. It works on any heat source, from the barbecue to the hob.

    Pros

    • Pre-seasoned and ready to use.

    Cons

    • Heavy at 2.64lb.
    • Presses one or two pieces at a time.
    View on Amazon UK
    Product sources

    Lodge product page ↗

  4. Weber Deluxe grilling basket

    Weber Deluxe grilling basket

    Sliced vegetables and small pieces of meat have a habit of falling through the grill. Weber's Deluxe Grilling Basket holds them on the barbecue instead, and it goes in the dishwasher afterwards. It's 30 by 35cm and fits 47cm charcoal barbecues and larger.

    Pros

    • Stops small pieces falling through.
    • Dishwasher safe.

    Cons

    • Needs a 47cm charcoal grill or a larger gas grill.
    View on Amazon UK
    Product sources

    Weber product page ↗

  5. OXO Good Grips grilling tongs with bottle opener

    OXO Good Grips grilling tongs with bottle opener

    Every barbecue needs a good pair of tongs. OXO's are stainless steel with scalloped heads that grab and hold food, and there's a bottle opener built in for the cook's drink.

    Pros

    • Built-in bottle opener.

    Cons

    • A small present, so it works best alongside something else.
    View on Amazon UK
    Product sources

    OXO product page ↗

What to buy someone who loves barbecues

Most barbecue fans already own a grill they're happy with, so tools make better presents than a new barbecue. The best gifts for BBQ lovers help them cook more accurately or handle food more easily. Check whether they cook on charcoal or gas, because some kit only suits one. A good thermometer suits beginners and experts alike.

How we picked these gifts for bbq lovers

We picked each product for what bbq lovers enjoy and because it makes sense as a present. The order is our own choice. The pros and cons come from published product details, not customer reviews.

Amazon shows the current price and delivery. Where we've checked that the US listing is the same product, the US link goes there. Otherwise you'll get the UK listing, labelled as such. More about our research.