Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner — and that means it’s time to fire up the grill, invite some friends, and celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just learning your way around the flames, having the right gear can make all the difference.
Here are my favorite grilling tools for 2025 that’ll make your cookout unforgettable.
1. Digital Meat Thermometer
Why you need it: Overcooked burgers or undercooked chicken? No thanks. A digital meat thermometer helps you nail the perfect internal temp every time.
Top Pick: ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer – Waterproof & Fast Read
Pro tip: Look for a model with backlight and magnet for easy grilling after dark.
2. Grill Basket
Why you need it: Overcooked burgers or undercooked chicken? No thanks. A digital meat thermometer helps you nail the perfect internal temp every time.
Top Pick: ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer – Waterproof & Fast Read
Pro tip: Look for a model with backlight and magnet for easy grilling after dark.
3. Heat-Resistant BBQ Gloves
Why you need it: Tongs and spatulas are great, but when you need to move a hot grate or adjust charcoal, gloves are a must.
Top Pick: 932°F Extreme Heat Resistant Gloves for Grill BBQ,Aillary Waterproof Long Sleeve Pit Grill Gloves for Fryer, Baking, Oven,Smoker,Fireproof, Oil Resistant Neoprene Coating（14-Inch ）
Pro tip: Also great for handling cast iron or Dutch ovens over fire pits.
4. Grill Tool Set
Why you need it: A complete grilling set keeps everything you need within reach.
Top Pick: Alpha Grillers BBQ Grilling Accessories
Pro tip: Choose sets with a case so it’s easy to transport to the park or campsite.
5. Chimney Starter
Why you need it: Skip the lighter fluid — a chimney starter is the best way to light charcoal fast and evenly.
Top Pick: Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter
Pro tip: Stuff newspaper or a natural firestarter under the bottom and light it for perfect coals in 15 minutes.
6. Wood Chips for Smoking
Why you need it: Even if you don’t have a smoker, you can infuse flavor with soaked wood chips in a smoker box or foil pouch.
Top Pick: Western BBQ Smoking Chips Variety Pack – Apple, Hickory, Mesquite, Cherry
Pro tip: Use different flavors for different meats — apple for pork, hickory for ribs.
7. Grill Cleaning Tool
Why you need it: A clean grill means better-tasting food and less sticking.
Top Pick: GRILLART Bristle-Free Grill Brush and Scraper
Pro tip: Always clean after grilling while the grate is still warm.
8. Grill Caddy or BBQ Station Organizer
Why you need it: Keep seasonings, sauces, and tools in one place instead of scrambling mid-burger-flip.
Top Pick: FANGSUN Grill Caddy, BBQ Caddy with Paper Towel Holder
Pro tip: Prep your sauces and marinades in squeeze bottles for faster access.
Bonus: Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Why you need it: Good food deserves good tunes.
Top Pick: JBL Flip 5 Waterproof Portable Speaker
Pro tip: Create a Memorial Day playlist ahead of time and let the vibes roll.
Wrap-Up: Make Your BBQ Legendary
With the right gear, your Memorial Day BBQ isn’t just a meal — it’s a full-on summer kickoff experience. Whether you’re smoking ribs, flipping burgers, or grilling kebabs, having the tools to do it right makes everything more fun (and tasty).
👉 Need ideas for what to cook? Stay tuned — I’ve got recipes and side dish ideas coming next.