This is our post about the things to bring to a bbq.
I have been invited to many barbecues. As a guest, I have never been asked to bring food. Even if I volunteered, the person(s) hosting the BBQ always said it wasn’t necessary.
So I think it’s funny when I read all the articles online, and 99% give you suggestions to bring some type of food item.
Heck, if I have to bring food, I ain’t coming. But I WILL bring a little treat for the host – something he or she can enjoy when they get home.
It’s a barbecue, not a potluck party.
So in this post, I am going to let you know what to really bring to a BBQ cookout. These are things you can’t do without.
And none are food dishes.
Just like your American Express card, NEVER go to another BBQ without them!
Keep reading and we will tell you why.
Contents
10 Things to Bring to a BBQ Listed
The good thing about this list is you probably have most, if not all, of these things at home already.
The same as getting ready for a storm, you can create your “barbecue preparedness kit”. Place it in the car before you leave for the barbecue. Then you can pull things out when needed.
1. Umbrella
Always have an umbrella nearby. You know the saying down South, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes”? Nothing ruins a BBQ faster than an unexpected rain shower.
Remember there is nothing like soggy potato salad!
But wait, an umbrella isn’t just for rain. It can also stop those sun rays from pouring down on you.
2. Hat
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a… Hat?
Yep, that’s right! When the sun’s out in full force, your hat is the superhero saving the day. It shields your face from harmful UV rays, keeps your head cool, and can make you look mysteriously stylish.
3. Sun Glasses
You need sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare and UV rays and let you keep an eye on the surroundings (or that special someone) without squinting.
And depending on your style, you can make a bold fashion statement. Even if it’s the hottest day of the year, you can be the coolest person at the cookout.
All eyes will be on you.
4. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your “secret weapon” against sunburn. You might be tempted to flex that killer physique, but don’t let the sun take a bite out of your skin.
And remember, it is possible to get sunburn on a cloudy day. The sun will sneak up on you like a snake. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there.
I can’t think of anything good to say about sunburn. So. slather on that SPF and be the sizzle, not the sizzled!
5. Misting Fan
Picture this. It’s a hot day, the grill’s heat is intense, and you’re breaking a sweat.
But wait, what’s that in your hand? Your trusty misting fan!
With a push of a button, you can immerse yourself in a cool breeze of refreshing mist.
Just be prepared to share, especially if you have the only fan at the barbecue.
6. Antibacterial Wipes
Germs are not your friends. Whether the barbecue is at a local park or your boss’s mansion, a germ is just waiting to make you sick.
Antibacterial wipes to the rescue. So before you take a bite, you better take a wipe.
I’m sure napkins will be provided, but when it comes to cleaning your post-BBQ sticky hands, these wipes are a better option.
Clean and germ free – I’ll take it!
7. Insect Repellent
Nothing says party crasher like a swarm of mosquitos. They seem to be everywhere.
At first sight of these little creatures, you’ve got to take the repellent out. Or better yet, just put some on beforehand.
Failure to protect yourself can lead to some painful bites or something worse.
8. Favorite Beverages
I learned a long time ago that the only sure way to get what you want is to get it yourself.
I have been to several cookouts where the liquid refreshments were not my favorites. I can’t get with the off-brand sodas or homemade sugar water (code name ‘sweet tea’).
No doubt whoever is hosting the barbecue has good intentions and wants everyone to have a good time. But if you want to stay hydrated and merry, you better bring your own beverages. Non-alcoholic or a little boozy, you get to drink what you like to drink.
And, what if there is a 1 drink maximum? Don’t risk it!
9. Deck of Cards
If everyone is keeping to themselves and the BBQ has you wishing you were somewhere else, you can pull out your deck of cards and break the ice.
Liven things up a little.
Whether it’s poker, Go Fish, or a magic trick, cards bring people together and spark laughter. If you see things like I do, a kids card game is even more fun. Plus, you can get EVERYONE involved.
10. Take Home Containers
It can be hard to determine how much food per person is needed.
So, at the end of most barbecues there is a good chance that there will be some leftover food that the host is begging folks to take. Or you may even want to take those leftover ribs home that you didn’t get to finish.
There’s a good chance that the only thing available to put the food in are paper plates and maybe some aluminum foil. Here’s where your take home container comes in.
Leftovers today, delightful lunch tomorrow!
The Bottom Line
There you have it. We have listed 10 must have items to take to the next BBQ cookout you attend. They will ensure you’re prepared for anything and everything.
You’ll be set, rain or shine, come hungry mosquitos or a card trick gone wrong.
And if the folks doing the cooking get a little reckless on the grill, you can help them out with a few safety tips to ensure a big fire does not get in the way of some good times and good eating.
FAQ for 10 Essential Things to Bring to a BBQ
What is the difference between a cookout and BBQ?
The difference between a cookout and a BBQ depends on the cooking method; a cookout is a general term for outdoor cooking of any kind, while BBQ specifically refers to slow-cooking meat at low temperatures, often with smoke.
What to bring to a BBQ cookout when you’re told not to bring a thing?
Even if you are told not to bring anything to a BBQ, it’s courteous to offer a small gift for the host, such as a bottle of wine, a bouquet of flowers, a gift basket, or a thank you card.
