Download A Competition BBQ Checklist

If you’ve signed up for your next competition bbq event, it’s time to get practical and make a competition BBQ checklist. If you’re in it to win it, then consistency is key. Once you know what supplies and equipment you’ll need for the perfect cook, it’s time to make a list. We’re here to help get you started.

What You’ll Want to Include on Your Competition BBQ Checklist

You’ll want to approach every competition with the same equipment and make sure you have enough supplies on hand to complete the cook and clean-up without needing to run out to the store. We know every team is going to do it a little differently, so we’ve created a checklist you can download and modify for your own needs.

• Equipment: This is the big stuff. List your smokers, tables, tents, etc.

• Cutlery: So many knives, each with their own specialty. They need their own category. List everything you need to trim and slice your meat. If you prefer scissors for your trimming or an electric knife for slicing, add them here.

• Smoker equipment: Make sure you have everything you need to run your smokers. If you have temperature monitoring equipment, list it all here.

• Other Equipment and Supplies: Keep track of everything you use during your cook; it adds up fast. Include everything you use to wrap and store your meat, including aluminum foil, saran wrap, ziplock bags, etc. Also include gloves, cutting boards, baking pans, seasoning shakers, temperature gauges, injector, tongs, etc.

• Refrigerated items: Don’t walk out of your house with your refrigerated items still in the fridge. Keep these items separated so you know exactly what you need to grab out of refrigerator before leaving the house. Include sauce, butter, juice and injection liquids, and the greens for your box.

• Pantry items: Maybe you layer your seasonings, maybe you have your special rub all mixed up. However you do it, don’t leave it in the pantry. Even if you pre-mix your rub, we recommend having all of your pantry items on hand during the competition in case you need to make your rub on the spot.

• Sanitation station: Keep your food quality top of mind and make sure you’re keeping your station clean throughout the competition. If you don’t have a hot water source, try using a drink cooler filled with hot water. You’ll want to have a wash bin, detergent/disinfectant, sponges, towels/paper towels, and a trash can.

• Coolers: Is it possible to have too many coolers? We don’t think so. Pack enough coolers to store your meat, refrigerated items, and drinks for yourself. Coolers are a great way to keep your meat warm as it rests.

• Power & Repair: Things tend to break when you least expect them to. Like keeping a first aid kit on hand for the unexpected, keep essential tools on hand to repair your smoker if something goes wrong.

Pro tip: Once you download and create your own checklist, get it laminated and use an eraseable marker to make sure you have everything you need before each event.