One of the best things about barbecue is that a simple setup — a smoker or pellet grill, the right fuel and good food — is enough to get you started. Still, having a few dependable tools on hand can make the cook easier and the whole experience even more fun.

From classic tongs, spatulas and grill brushes to more specialized tools, there is plenty of gear that can help take your grilling experience to the next level.

Here are some tools I love that may help you on your BBQ journey.

Good quality tongs
A good set of tongs will be a pitmaster’s best friend. They make getting meat on and off the grill a whole lot easier. You may be tempted to reach for the cheapest pair on the shelf, but investing in a high-quality set is worth it. Look for tongs made from a strong metal like stainless steel that are at least 12 to 18 inches long. That extra length makes it easier to move meat around without risking burnt hands.

Sharp, strong knives
While your everyday kitchen knives will work in a pinch, good-quality knives are especially helpful when you’re cooking BBQ. A long, sharp slicing knife is perfect for cutting brisket and ribs. You’ll also want a flexible boning knife for trimming meat, removing fat and shaping cuts before cooking. You do not need to buy the most expensive knives on the market, but a well-made knife will hold its edge longer, cut more cleanly and make prep a whole lot easier.

Heat-protection gloves
A good pair of gloves is another great tool for smoking meat. Look for a pair that offers solid heat protection to help prevent burns around the grill. I like gloves with rubber palms because they make it easier to grip meat, tongs and trays securely.

Bristle-free grill brush
A good grill brush is another must-have. Barbecue can get messy and keeping your grill grates clean will help your food taste better cook after cook. I recommend avoiding grill brushes with metal bristles, since loose bristles can end up in your food. A nylon grill brush, bristle-free grill cleaner or grill scraper is a much safer bet.

Metal skewers/kabobs
A good set of metal skewers is the way to go if you’re a fan of grilled kabobs. Disposable wooden skewers are fine in a pinch, but they tend to catch fire over higher heat and can break, leaving splinters in your food. Metal skewers are more durable, reusable and, with proper cleaning, can last a lifetime.

Instant-read meat thermometer
A meat thermometer is hands down one of the most important tools when it comes to grilling or smoking meat. Barbecue is more about internal temperature than cooking time, and the easiest way to check doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. There are plenty of options on the market at different price points, but make sure you choose one that gives quick, accurate readings. For more info on choosing the best thermometer for you, click here.

BBQ Prep Tubs
A barbecue prep tub is a deep container or tray used for seasoning, transporting and storing meat before it goes on the grill. Whether you’re seasoning meat ahead of time and storing it in the fridge or prepping a large batch all at once, a good prep tub comes in handy. You can find them at restaurant supply stores, big box retailers and online, and some even collapse into cutting boards for extra functionality.

At the end of the day, you do not need all the fancy tools and extras to make great barbecue. A simple setup can take you a long way, but a few reliable tools can make prep easier, cooks smoother and the whole experience a lot more enjoyable.