Introduction
Camping is a popular outdoor activity that allows individuals and families to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. One essential element of a successful camping trip is having the ability to cook delicious meals on-site. This is where portable grills come in handy. They provide the convenience and versatility needed to prepare meals while enjoying the camping experience.
Factors to consider when choosing a portable grill for camping
When selecting a portable grill for camping, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure you choose the best option for your needs:
- Size and Portability: Look for a grill that is compact and lightweight, allowing for easy transportation and storage. Consider the available space in your camping gear and vehicle.
- Fuel Type: Portable grills generally run-on propane, charcoal, or electric power. Each fuel type has its pros and cons, so choose one that suits your preferences and the availability of fuel sources at your camping destinations.
- Cooking Area: Consider the size of the cooking area, especially if you’re camping with a larger group. Ensure the grill offers enough space to cook multiple items simultaneously.
- Heat Control: Look for a grill that provides precise temperature control, allowing you to adjust the heat according to the type of food you’re cooking.
- Durability: Since camping involves outdoor conditions, opt for a grill made from durable materials that can withstand rugged environments.
- Ease of Cleaning: Check if the grill has removable parts and a non-stick surface, making it easy to clean after use.
- Safety Features: Look for grills with features like a secure locking mechanism, heat-resistant handles, and a stable base to ensure safe operation during camping trips.
Considering these factors will help you choose a portable grill that meets your specific needs and enhances your camping experience.
Review of the 10 Best Portable Grills of 2023
In the following sections, we will explore the top 10 portable grills for camping, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and overall performance.
1: Weber Q2200
Key Features and Specifications
- 12,000 BTU stainless steel burner
- 280 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Built-in thermometer
- Side tables
- Warming rack
- Foldable legs
- Dimensions: 26″H x 51.4″W x 25.1″D
- Weight: 35 pounds
Pros
- Powerful burner cooks food quickly and evenly
- Large cooking surface can accommodate a variety of foods
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are easy to clean
- Built-in thermometer makes it easy to cook food to perfection
- Side tables provide a convenient place to set utensils and food
- Warming rack keeps food warm while you’re cooking other items
- Foldable legs make it easy to transport and store
Cons
- Can be difficult to light
- Not as durable as some other grills
- Can be expensive
Overall Review and Rating
The Weber Q2200 is a great portable gas grill for campers and tailgaters. It’s powerful, easy to use, and has a large cooking surface. The only downside is that it can be a bit expensive. Overall, the Weber Q2200 is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality portable gas grill.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
2: Coleman RoadTrip LXE
Key Features and Specifications
- Two 10,000 BTU stainless steel burners
- 285 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- PerfectFlow technology for even heat distribution
- Removable grease tray for easy cleanup
- Collapsible design for easy transport and storage
- Dimensions: 26.3″H x 47.2″W x 24.1″D
- Weight: 48 pounds
Pros
- Powerful burners cook food quickly and evenly
- Large cooking surface can accommodate a variety of foods
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are easy to clean
- PerfectFlow technology ensures even heat distribution
- Removable grease tray makes cleanup a breeze
- Collapsible design makes it easy to transport and store
- Durable construction
- Affordable price
Cons
- Can be difficult to light
- Not as large as some other portable grills
- Can be a bit heavy
Overall Review and Rating
The Coleman RoadTrip LXE is a great portable gas grill for campers, tailgaters, and backyard barbecues. It’s powerful, easy to use, and has a large cooking surface. The only downside is that it can be a bit difficult to light. Overall, the Coleman RoadTrip LXE is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality portable gas grill.
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
3: Blackstone Table Top Grill
The Blackstone Table Top Grill is a great option for those who want a portable and versatile grilling experience. It’s small enough to fit on a table or countertop, yet it has enough cooking space to feed a crowd. The grill also features a variety of cooking surfaces, including a flat top, griddle, and searing zone, so you can cook a variety of foods.
Key features and specifications:
- 360 square inches of cooking surface
- Two burners with 12,000 BTUs each
- Removable grease tray for easy cleanup
- Foldable legs for easy transport and storage
- Dimensions: 22″L x 17″W x 10″H
- Weight: 35 pounds
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Blackstone Table Top Grill:
Pros:
- Portable and versatile
- Large cooking surface
- Variety of cooking surfaces
- Easy to use and clean
- Affordable
Cons:
- Can be difficult to light
- Not as durable as some other grills
- Can be a bit heavy
Overall:
The Blackstone Table Top Grill is a great option for those who want a portable and versatile grilling experience. It’s small enough to fit on a table or countertop, yet it has enough cooking space to feed a crowd. The grill also features a variety of cooking surfaces, so you can cook a variety of foods.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4: Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet
Key Features and Specifications
- 5,500 BTU stainless steel burner
- 150 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Locking lid for safety
- Ergonomic carry handle
- Dimensions: 12″D x 18″W x 13″H
- Weight: 13.5 pounds
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to use and clean
- Affordable price
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other portable grills
Overall Review and Rating
The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It’s perfect for cooking small meals for one or two people, and it’s easy to use and clean. However, the small cooking surface may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic gas grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
5: Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Key Features and Specifications
- 9,500 BTU stainless steel burner
- 240 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Lid-mounted temperature gauge
- Painted porcelain body
- For use with 1Lb propane tanks, (Sold Separately)
- Dimensions: 16.2″D x 24.8″W x 13.3″H
- Weight: 16 pounds
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to use and clean
- Affordable price
- Good heat distribution
- Durable construction
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other portable grills
Overall Review and Rating
The Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It’s perfect for cooking small meals for one or two people, and it’s easy to use and clean. However, the small cooking surface may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic gas grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
6: Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove
Key Features and Specifications
- Two 30,000 BTU burners
- 448 square inches of cooking surface
- Cast aluminum burners
- Removable legs
- Three-sided windscreen
- Dimensions: 14″D x 24″W x 17″H
- Weight: 27 pounds
Pros
- Powerful burners cook food quickly and evenly
- Large cooking surface can accommodate a variety of foods
- Cast aluminum burners are durable and rust-resistant
- Removable legs make it easy to transport and store
- Three-sided windscreen protects your flame from wind
Cons
- Can be difficult to light
- Not as portable as some other portable grills
- Can be a bit heavy
Overall Review and Rating
The Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove is a great option for those who are looking for a powerful and versatile portable grill. It’s perfect for cooking for a small group, and it’s easy to use and clean. However, the stove can be a bit difficult to light, and it’s not as portable as some other portable grills. Overall, the Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality portable grill that can handle a variety of cooking tasks.
Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
7: Coleman Fold N Go+ Propane Grill
The Coleman Fold N Go+ Propane Grill is a small, portable grill that is perfect for camping, tailgating, or picnics. It features a 6,000 BTU burner, 105 square inches of cooking surface, and a folding design that makes it easy to transport and store.
Key Features and Specifications
- 6,000 BTU burner
- 105 square inches of cooking surface
- Adjustable burner
- Foldable design
- Built-in ignition
- Removable grease tray
- Dimensions: 16.5″ x 12.5″ x 12.5″
- Weight: 12 pounds
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable
- Good heat distribution
- Durable construction
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other portable grills
- Can be difficult to clean
Overall Review and Rating
The Coleman Fold N Go+ Propane Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable grill. It’s perfect for cooking for a small group, and it’s easy to set up and use. However, the small cooking surface and lack of power may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Coleman Fold N Go+ Propane Grill is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic portable grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
8: Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill
The Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It features two 10,000 BTU stainless steel burners, 274 square inches of cooking surface, and a folding design that makes it easy to transport and store.
Key Features and Specifications
- Two 10,000 BTU stainless steel burners
- 274 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Push-and-turn ignition
- Dome thermometer
- Stainless steel body and lid
- Folding legs
- Dimensions: 18″ x 24″ x 14″
- Weight: 28 pounds
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable
- Good heat distribution
- Durable construction
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are easy to clean
- Push-and-turn ignition makes it easy to light the grill
- Dome thermometer helps you cook food to perfection
- Stainless steel body and lid are rust-resistant
- Folding legs make it easy to transport and store
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other portable grills
- Can be difficult to clean the grease tray
Overall Review and Rating
The Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It’s perfect for cooking for a small group, and it’s easy to set up and use. However, the small cooking surface and lack of power may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic portable grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
9: Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill
The Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It features two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners, 285 square inches of cooking surface, and a folding design that makes it easy to transport and store.
Key Features and Specifications
- Two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners
- 285 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- JETFIRE™ electronic ignition
- WAVE™ cooking grids
- High-top cast aluminum lid
- Removable grease tray
- Foldable legs
- Dimensions: 18″ x 24″ x 14″
- Weight: 30 pounds
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable
- Good heat distribution
- Durable construction
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are easy to clean
- JETFIRE™ electronic ignition makes it easy to light the grill
- WAVE™ cooking grids sear food for better flavor
- High-top cast aluminum lid prevents flare-ups
- Removable grease tray makes it easy to clean up
- Foldable legs make it easy to transport and store
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other portable grills
- Can be difficult to clean the grease tray
Overall Review and Rating
The Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable gas grill. It’s perfect for cooking for a small group, and it’s easy to set up and use. However, the small cooking surface and lack of power may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic portable grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
10: Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill
Key Features and Specifications
- 240 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
- Plated steel cooking grates
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock
- Dampers for temperature control
- Ash catcher
- Dimensions: 19.7″H x 19.7″W x 20.5″D
- Weight: 29 pounds
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to set up and use
- Affordable
- Good heat distribution
- Durable construction
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are easy to clean
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock makes it easy to transport
- Dampers allow for precise temperature control
- Ash catcher makes cleanup easy
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Not as powerful as some other charcoal grills
- Can be difficult to light
Overall Review and Rating
The Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is a great option for those who are looking for a small, portable, and affordable charcoal grill. It’s perfect for cooking for a small group, and it’s easy to set up and use. However, the small cooking surface and lack of power may be a drawback for some people. Overall, the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is a great choice for those who are looking for a basic charcoal grill that’s easy to use and affordable.
Overall Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table for the 10 best portable grills:
| Grill | Cooking Surface | Fuel Type | BTU | Weight | Dimensions | Price |
| Weber Q2200 | 260 square inches | Propane | 10,000 | 27 pounds | 18.5 x 21 x 15 inches | $299.99 |
| Coleman RoadTrip LXE | 320 square inches | Propane | 14,000 | 35 pounds | 22 x 24 x 16 inches | $299.99 |
| Blackstone Table Top Grill | 220 square inches | Propane | 10,000 | 30 pounds | 22 x 22 x 12 inches | $299.99 |
| Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet | 180 square inches | Propane | 9,500 | 16 pounds | 16.5 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches | $149.99 |
| Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill | 240 square inches | Propane | 9,500 | 16 pounds | 16.2 x 24.8 x 13.3 inches | $149.99 |
| Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove | 448 square inches | Propane | 30,000 | 27 pounds | 14 x 24 x 17 inches | $249.99 |
| Coleman Fold N Go+ Propane Grill | 105 square inches | Propane | 6,000 | 12 pounds | 16.5 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches | $99.99 |
| Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill | 274 square inches | Propane | 10,000 | 28 pounds | 18 x 24 x 14 inches | $299.99 |
| Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill | 285 square inches | Propane | 12,000 | 30 pounds | 18 x 24 x 14 inches | $349.99 |
| Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill | 240 square inches | Charcoal | 12,000 | 29 pounds | 19.7 x 19.7 x 20.5 inches | $229.99 |
The best grill for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you are looking for a small, lightweight grill that is easy to transport, then a tabletop grill may be a good option. If you are looking for a grill that can cook for a larger group, then a larger grill with multiple burners may be a better choice. And if you are looking for a grill that produces smoky, flavorful food, then a charcoal grill may be the best option for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top portable grills for camping offer a range of features and advantages to enhance your outdoor cooking experience. The Weber Q2200 stands out for its exceptional build quality, even heating, and convenient folding side tables. The Coleman RoadTrip LXE impresses with its collapsible design and generous cooking area, providing versatility and easy transport.
The Blackstone Table Top Grill offers versatility and a large cooking area, catering to outdoor cooking enthusiasts who enjoy grilling a variety of foods. The Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner Stove is perfect for those who seek a versatile cooking setup, with the ability to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. The Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner grill boasts durability and efficient cooking, with ample cooking space.
These top portable grills provide campers with reliable options, ensuring convenience, durability, and quality performance. Choose the grill that best suits your needs and preferences, and elevate your camping experience with delicious meals prepared in the great outdoors.
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