The Ultimate Guide to BBQ Charcoal: Everything You Need to Know

Choosing the right charcoal can make or break your next cookout. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or firing up the grill for the first time, understanding the different types of charcoal available will help you achieve the perfect cook every time.

Types of BBQ Charcoal

There are several charcoal options to consider, each with its own strengths and ideal use cases. The main types include lump charcoal, briquettes, and specialty blends. Lump charcoal is made from hardwood and burns hotter with less ash, making it perfect for high-heat searing and quick cooks. Briquettes are uniform in size and burn longer at consistent temperatures, ideal for low-and-slow smoking sessions. Many pitmasters also prefer blends that combine the best of both worlds.

Take a look at the image below to see the charcoal options we stock and find the right type for your next cookoff.

What to Look For

When selecting charcoal, consider the type of cook you're planning. Are you doing a quick sear or a long smoke? How much heat do you need? Quality matters too—premium charcoal produces less ash and burns cleaner, giving you better flavour and easier cleanup. Check the moisture content as well; dry charcoal ignites faster and burns more efficiently than damp stock.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage keeps your charcoal ready to go whenever you need it. Store charcoal in a cool, dry place away from moisture. A sealed container or bag works best to prevent it from absorbing humidity from the air. When stored correctly, charcoal has a long shelf life and won't degrade over time.

Getting the Most Out of Your Charcoal

To maximise performance, arrange your charcoal strategically in your grill or smoker based on your cooking method. For direct heat cooking, pile it high. For indirect heat and smoking, create a two-zone setup with charcoal on one side. Use a chimney starter to light your charcoal evenly—it's faster, cleaner, and gives you better temperature control than lighter fluid.

With the right charcoal and a bit of know-how, you'll be cooking like a pro in no time.