The dog days of summer are here—the hot dog days, that is. That’s right: barbecue season is in full swing. The time is right to fire up your grill on the porch or patio or at the park and load it up with fresh veggies, meats and other favorite items that transform from plain to perfection by the miracle of heat and marinade.

Is there anything better than a barbecue with friends in the heat of the summer? The correct answer is “no.” But for the host, it can be a somewhat stressful event. If you’ve got a few BBQs in the vicinity, it inevitably becomes a bit of a showdown, with BBQ bragging rights on the line. You need to be prepared. This previous Luvo post outlines grilling 101 basics, and here are a few other things to consider when you’re faced with an epic barbecue showdown.

What to grill?

Obviously what to cook has to be the first consideration. The beauty of the barbecue is that you can prepare so many things easily, and more than just meat. Corn on the cob is great on the grill, as are bell peppers and zucchini. Just cut them into halves or quarters, sprinkle with olive oil and salt and pepper, and grill them up. Wonderful and juicy.

If you’re going the meat route, you’ve got options. Why not make your own burgers? Here’s a straightforward version that you can add elements to, according to your tastes. Or go with perennial crowd-pleasers the kebab, which can combine meat and veggies and herbs and even cheese. Need more ideas? Here’s a variety of options that will ensure you’ve got something for everyone.

Put some sauce on it

People go one of two ways when it comes to sauces: some prefer the purity of the meat or veggies, perhaps seasoned only with salt and pepper, and others like to add various sauces to the mix. Either way, you need to have a few condiments on hand, whether you marinate your morsels before cooking or not. Want to really blow away the competition in a BBQ showdown? Make your own sauces—here are a few of our favorites.

Essential implements

You don’t show up to BBQ showdown with just a knife—you also need tongs. Bring at least two sets, one for handling raw meat, and one for cooked meat. It’s also essential that you have a long spatula to reach out over the hot grill to flip your foods. Don’t forget matches! Barbecue lighting buttons often fail.

Drinks and sides

Round out your BBQ showdown victory with side dishes and frosty refreshing beverages. Obviously potato salad is a must-have. For drinks, consider something lemony, minty or sparkling—or what about all three ?! Serve this up and the showdown is yours.

What are your essentials for success at a BBQ showdown? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter at @luvoinc.