How to Set Up the Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Area for Spring

Author: Sasha Halabi  Date Posted:16 September 2025 

Campfire cooking with an Auspit rotisserie kit grilling meat while mates relax at a bush campsite.

When the warmer weather hits and the days start stretching out, Aussies head outside. Spring is the season for backyard catch ups, Friday night feasts, and spontaneous Sunday cook ups. If you are ready to make your backyard the go to spot for mates and meals, it is time to build the ultimate outdoor BBQ setup.

Whether you have a full alfresco kitchen or just a patch of lawn and a fire pit, here is how to turn your outdoor space into a proper spring cooking zone.

Plan Your Space for Flow and Function

Start by thinking about how you use the space. You want a good flow between cooking, prepping, serving, and relaxing. Your BBQ or spit roaster should sit somewhere with enough ventilation and access to a prep table or bench.

If you have a covered area, make sure it is open enough for smoke to escape. If you are setting up on a deck or patio, consider heat protection underneath and behind the grill.

A few key things to include in your layout:

  • A dedicated BBQ or spit cooking zone
  • A prep bench or trolley
  • Some seating or a bar table for guests
  • Lighting for those late night cooks
  • Storage space for your gear, fuel, and tools

You do not need to build a full outdoor kitchen. Even a fold-out table and a solid charcoal grill can give you a pro feel with the right setup.

Choose the Right BBQ or Spit for Your Cooking Style

The heart of your alfresco cooking area is the gear you cook on. That could be a stainless steel spit roaster, a charcoal Parrilla grill (To view this product, head over to BBQ Spit Rotisseries here), or a compact portable unit that you can pack away when it is not in use.

Think about what you cook most:

Whole lamb roasting on a spit rotisserie over hot charcoal.

  • For whole lamb or large group roasts, a full-size rotisserie with motor is ideal. (To view this product, head over to BBQ Spit Rotisseries here)

Stainless steel Parrilla BBQ grill with corn and meat cooking over charcoal.

  • For weekly family meals, a mid-sized charcoal spit or Parrilla (To view this product, head over to BBQ Spit Rotisseries here) gives versatility

Two seasoned chickens roasting on a charcoal spit rotisserie BBQ.

No matter the size, quality matters. Look for stainless steel or powder-coated finishes, sturdy frames, and motors that can handle your cooking load.

Add Essential Tools and Accessories

Great gear makes outdoor cooking easier and more enjoyable. Once you have your grill or spit sorted, kit it out with these essentials:

BBQ tools and accessories including skewers, heat-resistant gloves, electric carving knife, drip tray, digital thermometer, and charcoal fire starter.

If you are running a rotisserie, consider extras like a basket cage for smaller cuts, a counterbalance for even spinning, or a carving shovel for serving sliced meats straight off the skewer.

Create the Atmosphere

Cooking is only half the experience. The rest is about creating an inviting space where people want to hang out. Think about how you can make your cooking area a place people enjoy spending time in. Below are some ideas to help you get started:

  • Comfortable seating with cushions or rugs
  • Outdoor lighting, like festoons or solar lights
  • Shade during the day and warmth at night
  • Music through a portable speaker
  • A small bar or drinks fridge nearby

You don’t need to go overboard. A few thoughtful touches can turn a basic backyard into a laid-back alfresco zone perfect for spring entertaining.

Keep It Simple and Modular

Not everyone has a built-in BBQ setup or loads of space. That is where modular gear shines. A portable spit roaster, a collapsible prep table, and a fire pit grill can all be packed down when not in use, giving you flexibility without sacrificing function.

This approach works well for renters, small patios, or anyone who wants their gear to double as camping or caravan cooking equipment.

Final Word

Spring is the time to get outside, fire up the grill, and make the most of your outdoor space. With a bit of planning and the right gear, you can build an outdoor BBQ setup that works for every cook-up from midweek dinners to big family feasts.

So take stock of your backyard, gear up for the season, and make this spring the one where your outdoor cooking game levels up.

Looking to upgrade your setup? Check out our range of spit roasters, grills, and cooking accessories made for the Aussie outdoors.

Shop now at auspit.com