Best Portable Grills For Camping
We know that cooking on a campfire can be fun yet tricky and difficult sometimes, which is why we have put together a list of the best portable grills you can buy instead of heading straight to a camp stove.
Looking for a reliable way to cook your food on the go?
We know that cooking on a campfire can be fun yet tricky and difficult sometimes, which is why we have put together a list of the best portable grills you can buy instead of heading straight to a camp stove. Perfect for camping trips, beach days, or car camping, these best camping grills will give you delicious results every time without the challenge of cooking on a fire. (And, sometimes open fires are not allowed 🤔)
With these grills, you'll have complete control over every aspect of their performance. You won't have to worry about them failing when mealtime hits critical mass - like during an important family reunion or a camping trip in the wilderness. And thanks to their portability, you’ll be able to bring your grill wherever life takes you!
Check out our recommendations today and check out our list of the best grills for camping – perfect for all your adventurous food-consuming needs!
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Portable Camping Grills: A Comprehensive Guide to Features and Benefits
Camping enthusiasts often face a major dilemma when it comes to preparing delicious meals in the great outdoors: how can one cook up a feast without sacrificing portability and convenience? The answer is simple - invest in a portable camping grill. These have benefits over most grills simply because they are smaller and fit easier into a vehicle.
These versatile and handy devices allow campers to whip up flavorful dishes, no matter where the adventure takes them as a camping stove. In this guide, we will discuss the various types of portable gas camping grills, their features, their benefits, and why they deserve a spot in your camping gear inventory.
1. Charcoal Camping Grills
Portable charcoal grills are the most traditional form of portable grills and remain a popular option for campers who appreciate the rich, smoky flavors that only charcoal can offer. The primary fuel source for these grills is easy to find and relatively inexpensive, making them convenient for extended excursions off the beaten path.
Features:
- Easy temperature control: Users can easily adjust heat levels by adding or removing charcoal to the grill.
- Authentically charred flavor: Cooking with charcoal creates unmatched smoky flavors.
- Stand and wheels: Enhance portability by making transportation a breeze.
Benefits:
- Affordability: A portable charcoal grill is usually more budget-friendly compared to propane or wood pellet grills.
- Portability: Campers can easily dismantle most charcoal grills, allowing for easy transport and storage.
- Wide temperature range: A portable charcoal grill can reach high temperatures for quickly searing food, or maintain low and consistent temperatures for low and slow cooking,.
2. Wood Pellet Camping Grills
Wood pellet grills are gaining popularity among campers for their ability to provide the delicious smoky flavors associated with a portable charcoal grill while offering a cleaner, more convenient cooking experience. These grills use compressed wood pellets as their fuel and often incorporate digital controls and temperature sensors for precise cooking.
Features:
- Efficient heat distribution: A wood pellet camping grill ensures even cooking through a combination of direct and convection heat.
- Precise temperature control: These grills often have digital thermostats for accurate temperature monitoring.
- Flavor variety: Users can choose from a range of wood pellet flavors (e.g., hickory, apple, mesquite) to create unique dishes.
Benefits:
- Convenient and clean: A wood pellet camping grill requires less manual intervention compared to charcoal, and produces minimal ash and mess.
- Versatility: Users can grill, smoke, roast, and even bake using these grills, making them a versatile choice for campsite culinary endeavors.
- Energy efficient: The fuel (wood pellets) is made from compressed sawdust, meaning they are eco-friendly and have a low carbon footprint.
3. Propane Camping Grills
Propane grills are the quintessential choice for campers who desire convenience and quick meal preparation. These grills provide a fast, steady heat source for grilling all types of food, and are easy to set up and clean.
Features:
- Instant ignition: Propane grills are ready to use within minutes, with no need for preheating or constant fuel monitoring.
- Even heat distribution: These grills ensure consistent cooking temperatures across the grilling surface.
- Adjustable flame control: Users can easily alter the heat for different cooking methods, such as searing, barbecuing, or slow-roasting.
Benefits:
- Quick and convenient: Propane grills offer hassle-free cooking, with minimal maintenance or cleanup required.
- Portable: Campers can easily transport propane grills, usually folding down for compact storage.
- Fuel efficiency: Propane burns efficiently with little waste, and fuel tanks can often be refilled or exchanged at a variety of locations, providing campers with an accessible, reliable fuel source.
4. Griddle Camping Grills
Griddle grills are portable, flat-surfaced grills perfect for cooking an array of foods, such as pancakes, eggs, and burgers. These versatile grills often feature multiple heat zones and are compatible with propane or charcoal as fuel sources.
Features:
- Non-stick surface: Griddle grills often have a non-stick cooking surface, making it easy to cook without worrying about food sticking.
- Large cooking area: These grills provide ample cooking space, for cooking multiple items simultaneously, ensuring everyone gets their meal hot and fresh.
- Multi-functional: Some griddle grills come with interchangeable plates, allowing campers to switch between grilling and griddle cooking.
Benefits:
- Versatility: Griddle grills are perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, expanding the campsite culinary experience.
- Easy to clean: Campers can quickly clean up after their meals by simply wiping down the griddle surface with a cloth or paper towel.
- Even cooking: The flat cooking surface ensures consistent heat distribution for perfectly cooked food.
Portable camping grills provide convenience, versatility, and mouth-watering flavor to any camping experience. By considering the features and benefits of
How We Pick'em
Trying to cook on a campfire can be super fun and often challenging. Sometimes you just want the predictability of a grill when it's time to get the feeding done.
It can be tough to know which best portable grill that is right for you, with all of the different options available on the market.
We have put together a list of a variety of the best portable grills you can buy for camping trips, trips to the beach, or even car camping. Our list includes the best grills for camping, from top brands like Weber, Cuisinart, and Monument Grills, so you can rest assured that you're getting a quality product.
Keep in mind, we consider the use of the product with features and benefits and THEN price when recommending the best value. We do NOT simply find the least-expensive item out there and suggest it is a good value. The purpose being accomplished reasonably well is always first and foremost.
What we like
Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill is a great option for any camper or outdoor enthusiast as our top-rated grill/griddle. Its compact grill size and portability make it the ideal grill for camping, tailgating, road trips, and even backyard use. These griddles have gained in popularity exponentially over the last 5 years for good reason.
The electric igniter simplifies the ignition process and eliminates the hassle of trying to light a fire, as well as its convenient 1-pound propane bottle for fuel. The built-in grease catcher also allows easy cleanup—simply wipe it off with a paper towel and you're good to go! After you're done cooking up scrumptious meals, Blackstone makes storage easy by allowing you to store the griddle top upside down on top of the griddle body.
The Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill has become an appreciated kitchen accessory among hungry campers due to its convenience – not only does it make an excellent meal in a short amount of time but also requires less effort in terms of prepping, cooking, and cleanup as well as less cooking space. Be ready to serve your friends and family delicious meals whether it's during those summertime trips or around a ski trip cabin! Get ready for cookouts under starry skies made conveniently luxurious with Blackstone 1650 Tabletop camping grill.
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This powerful grill features one H-Shaped burner that provides 12,000 BTUs of supreme heat. As you cook, the cold rolled steel cooking surface expands over the whole grill, so your sear area to a grand 260 square inches of cooking space, allowing more of your favorite dishes to be cooked efficiently. For added convenience, the built-in drip pan grease catcher makes clean up easy as grease drips down from the beefy burgers.
Handsome in design, the black powder coated and stainless steel construction makes it look professional while providing durability and good heat retention in all elements. You’ll be able to ignite the flame without problems thanks to its electric ignition with a click of a button. With a portable design and powerful burners, this is one of the very best portable camping grills for any outdoor occasion or camping trip. Try it yourself to see why so many say this is the best portable grill.
Concerns
- Wind can affect the flame since there is a gap between the flame and the bottom of the griddle.
- The removable grease tray is not the best design and may be inconvenient to remove and operate as intended.
What we like
Grillmasters, this portable package is the perfect companion for you! Whether you’re headed to a tailgate party, picnic, or campsite, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill has your back. This portable gas grill packs a two-fold punch with two independently controlled burners and over 207 square inches of cooking space.
Plus, it’s so lightweight that you can take it anywhere without breaking your back. So say goodbye to flavorless burgers at campgrounds and prepare for full-size grill performance on the road. With Monument Grills propane gas grills you won't miss out on any family game nights around the BBQ or peaceful nights of grilling in nature ever again. You can eat—wherever life takes you!
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With 15,000 BTUs of cooking power and two powerful burners, this propane grill produces fast heat to make expert grilling that much more accessible! The lid is designed to reach high enough to keep larger cuts of meat like steak and ribs juicy throughout the cooking process – just like a backyard oven.
Its stainless steel grates and burners, plus the built-in thermometer for temperature monitoring, are all essential in delivering an ideal experience for hungry campers and families alike. Made with both durability and convenience in mind, it comes equipped with a 40-inch hose that connects easily to any 20lb propane tank (not included) so you can enjoy your meal no matter where you are.
That is a very simple feature that sets this grill apart from its more expensive counterparts. And, with its reliable design and exceptional heat performance, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill helps you prepare everything from bacon and eggs at breakfast to a feast in the evening!
Concerns
- Grease drips into the bottom of the grill making it a challenge to clean.
- It has uneven cooking spots across the surface making you have to adjust the placement of what you're cooking.
What we like
Bring the taste of wood-fired flavor with you wherever you go, with Traeger Grills Ranger Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker. Perfect for adventurers, campers, or families on the go, the Ranger portable grill, is designed for durability with its lid latches and baffled lid design.
Take your grilling experience to the next level with the new Digital Arc Controller, giving you precise control over temperature and a Keep Warm Mode perfect for cooking delicious food ready whenever you need it. With Traeger Grills Ranger Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, your outdoor cooking experience will be one to remember.
Its convenient size and portability make it easy to transport though it is deceptively heavy, while its large cooking area ensures that you'll never be left wanting when it comes to meals while at camp.
And with the Traeger Grills Ranger's maximum temperature of 450°, you can cook anything from succulent steaks to delicious pizzas in minutes. The porcelain-coated grates are engineered for easy cleaning and are designed to help enhance the flavor of your food. Additionally, the internal hopper capacity of 8 lbs., makes sure you’ll have enough wood pellets for extended smoke sessions, turning any getaway into an unforgettable one. Experience outdoor adventures like never before with Traeger Grills Ranger Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker!
More details
The Ranger features a cooking chamber with 184 square inches of grilling space, fitting 4-6 burgers comfortably. With its full range temperature control up to 450ᵒ, you can prepare just about anything – from thick-cut steaks to roasted vegetables. Cleaning is also easy thanks to its porcelain-coated grill grates.
It comes in at 60 lbs., making it transportable enough for camping trips or family outings but is not the weight of a charcoal portable grill. With the Traeger Grills Ranger Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker and a little electricity, you can up your camp food game.
Concerns
- Needs electrical power: You will either have to hook to an outlet in a camper, vehicle or campsite hook up or with the use of a power inverter from a vehicle
- Both good and concerning: It is heavy. Well made but maybe not as portable as you would prefer.
What we like
The Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Portable Grill is designed by the grilling experts at Weber to bring everyone together, no matter where they are. This lightweight grill is easy to pack up and carry with you wherever your adventures take you making it our choice for the best portable charcoal grill. Perfect for tailgating, camping trips, family gatherings, or even a quick lunch in between outdoor activities, this company has been providing ways to create delicious food since 1952.
With the unique and classic design of the Smokey Joe Premium 14-inch portable grill, you get even and consistent cooking every time, perfect for preparing your favorite burgers, steaks, veggies, fish, and more.
The tight-fitting lid helps lock in all that savory flavor so each bite is as tasty as the last. And when you're done grilling up dinner or dessert, this grill's easy to clean up and lightweight design means it stores away perfectly while still being ready to hit the road whenever you are.
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Its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat while resisting rust and peeling, making it durable enough to keep up with your adventures. The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock is a great feature, doubling as a lid holder so you won't have to place it on the ground. And, for perfectly controlled grilling, the dampers easily adjust the temperature inside your grill, though we would prefer a vent on the bottom as well.
Plus, with its ability for up to six burgers and hold up to five burgers made with a Weber burger press, this grill is sure to please the cook and hungry campers alike. And if you need help with assembling your Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch Portable Grill – don’t worry. Just go to the free BILT app where you can get interactive assembly instructions. And with this grill, there's no need to keep track of propane canisters.
Concerns
- It does not have air vents on the bottom with this new model which makes it harder to reach higher temps.
- The grill grate does not seat well.
What we like
Weber brings you the Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill – one of the most unique grills around! Enjoy ultimate grilling convenience with a one-handed setup and collapse, no tools are required to start using this as a camp stove. Quick and easy setup can be done alone or with a friend so you don't have to take up your picnic table for cooking space.
The grill is attached to the cart for hassle-free transport and setup, because why spend time struggling when you could already be eating? With compact foldable legs, that take up minimal space in your garage or trunk, this grill is ideal for campers, families, and friends who love to travel and like hot dogs.
Unlock big culinary possibilities with the Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill! Delicious meals can be made on a large grilling surface (15 burger capacity) so that everyone can eat at once. Its cooking capacity is one of the reasons it is our recommendation for the best portable gas grill as it can hold a grill plate, pan, and coffee pot altogether.
It’s purposely designed to optimize gas usage so that you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel. All the energy efficiency will make sure your meal stays hot without wasting too much fuel. This clever design ensures that no matter where you go, you'll always be able to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
More details
Attach a one pound propane tank or use an adapter hose to connect to a larger tank (sold separately) for efficient grilling no matter where you are traveling. Factor in its specially designed one-handed setup and fold-down, and this simple yet robust design will have you up and grilling in no time. This one edges out the Coleman fold grill with its size.
Whether you're cooking at home with friends or out with family camping, the Weber Traveler grill is the perfect companion for all your tasty creations.
Concerns
- The latch is not really tight and may open during transport.
- The grill does get to a high heat super quickly.
What we like
If you're looking for an easy, convenient way to get the grilling party started, look no further than the Cuisinart CGG-750 Portable! This portable gas grill is perfect for camping, tailgating, or just spending quality time with friends and family outside. Plus, it is just cool. It did not really make the list as the best portable grill, but, It's shaped like a picnic basket!
With its 1 lb capacity propane fuel source (not included) and cutting board surface, prepping any kind of meal is simple. The porcelain enameled cast iron grate cooks your food evenly and quickly, so you can sit back and enjoy the outdoors sooner. Thanks to its stack-and-go design, it's incredibly lightweight and incredibly easy to carry to your destination.
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The 154 sq. inches enameled cast iron cooking grate is large enough for even the hungriest of campers or families of four – always making sure everyone goes home well-fed! Its 9,000 BTU stainless steel burner makes some serious heat to ensure that your cooking experiences are extraordinary.
Additionally, the fold-out propane tank rack keeps your full one pound propane tank upright and safely secured while you cook in style. Whether you’re using it on an outdoor trip or a backyard get-together with friends, this portable grill is great for any occasion. Make memories without missing out on home-cooked meals with Cuisinart’s CGG-750 Portable Grill. You really can grill in style while saving storage space while traveling.
Concerns
- 9,000 BTUs. It won’t cook super fast if that’s what you want.
- Clean-up is a challenge due to tight spaces.
FAQs For Portable Camping Grills
Campfire cooking is a lot of fun, but it can be challenging to get just the right level of heat and cooking time.
Not only can campfire cooking be challenging, but it also takes a lot of practice to get good at it. You might not be able to get the perfect meal every time you cook outdoors.
Outdoor Verified offers the many solutions for your campfire cooking needs above. We have also compiled a list of frequently asked questions and helpful tips so you'll be able to make the best decision possible for what fits your needs.
Are portable grills worth it?
Portable grills are an incredibly versatile and convenient solution for anyone looking to cook delicious meals while camping instead of camping stoves. These cookers come in a variety of styles — from gas to charcoal and electric — making them perfect for beginners and more experienced grillers alike who may want to explore different fuel options. Plus, they're often quite affordable, so you can get your small grill on without breaking the bank. So, pull up your best camping chair and start cooking with one of these whether one of the propane models or electric.
Is charcoal or propane better for camping?
Choosing between propane and charcoal grilling is largely a personal preference that comes down to flavor preferences, the convenience of setup and cleaning, budget, and other factors. Both types of grills are great options for camping trips and outdoor barbecues, but it's important to consider the pros and cons of each to make the best decision for your needs.
Is a griddle or grill better for camping?
If you have limited space and find yourself frequently cooking in the great outdoors, a griddle is an excellent choice for you. Not only will it allow you to prepare delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners simultaneously, but also it requires very little maintenance in between trips. On the other hand, if you are not much of a griddle fan and only want to cook dinner on your camp trips–then you should consider investing in a camp grill instead. This way, there is no need to worry about seasoning or dealing with any other maintenance that may be required by a griddle when you opt for charcoal grilling. Or, you could grab a grill like the Weber q 1200, a good camping grill, and a griddle to do more camp cooking with two of them. Another interesting grill is the snow peak takibi fire pit grill along with the petit gourmet or a camp chef model. Ok, there are even options for a portable pizza oven as well. So many options! But, they did not quite make the grade.
Can I use a 20lb propane tank on a portable grill?
Absolutely! With a Propane Adapter Hose with Regulator, you can easily and quickly connect your tabletop griddle to a larger bulk 20-lb propane tank for longer cook times and bigger griddle meals. This innovative solution is both convenient and cost-effective, allowing you to save money while having access to an unlimited supply of delicious food.
How do I keep my portable grill clean?
Before you begin your grill cleaning ritual, it's important to hose down your grill and lid, inside and out, to get rid of any built-up ash. Now it's time to start scrubbing. You'll need hot water, a plastic scouring pad (or steel wool for tougher messes), and either dish soap or a degreaser for tougher spots. If you opt for dish soap, just start scrubbing the entire grill, firebox and grates with hot, soapy water until they're sparkling clean, and then rinse them off thoroughly before drying them with a cloth.
Does charcoal grill taste better than propane?
When it comes to the taste and flavor profiles of gas vs charcoal grills, it is ultimately a matter of personal preference. While some may love the smokier flavor you get from charcoal grills since they can add that extra punch of flavor to your food, others may prefer the more subtle taste you get from gas grills. Ultimately, different types of charcoal used on the grill will make a difference in the overall flavor profile, so no two grilled meals are ever quite alike!
Which is healthier charcoal grill or propane grill?
If you're trying to make the most health-conscious and environmentally friendly decisions when it comes to cooking, then you should definitely opt for a gas-powered appliance. Studies show that food cooked on gas grills contains fewer carcinogenic compounds than that which is charred on a charcoal surface, making it potentially healthier for consumption. Additionally, gas grills have about 1/3 of the carbon footprint of charcoal grills, making them much more eco-friendly and sustainable.
Can you use a portable grill as a fire pit?
All you have to do to get your barbecue festivities started is simply unfold your grill, pop on the grates, and you're good to go! Not only does it feature a sturdy base for safe grilling in all conditions, but its sides also act as windbreaks so you can still enjoy your delicious grill treats even when the winds pick up. It's also great for leaving no trace camping as it can easily be used as a firepit too!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, campfire grilling techniques are fun and sometimes challenging, but sometimes you need the predictability of a gas grill. It is important to do your research and find the best value for your money without sacrificing quality.
When it comes to portable grills for camping trips, trips to the beach, or even car camping, you will be feeling good about heading out with some of the options that were presented in this article. However, it is important to remember that any camp kitchen purchase is an investment and must be done with care.
We wish you all of the best on your quest for finding your ideal portable grill and we hope you experience some amazing outdoor meals as well. Don't forget to click the buttons under each product's picture to check current pricing and availablity!
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~ Ron
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