We’ve selected the 10 best portable grills for your reference.
With the weather gradually warming up, it’s time to plan a wonderful outdoor camping trip. And for summer camping, a barbecue party is a must. That’s why our outdoor camping experts have specifically selected 10 portable and reliable camping grills.
These portable grills are not only convenient to carry on the go but also have excellent performance. One thing to note is that most of the camp grills that made it to the list are portable gas grills. This is because we understand that most people do not want to prepare charcoal or coal during the summer.
Of course, we have also prepared several very affordable and user-friendly camp charcoal grills for those budget-conscious travel groups.
If you need a stove, you can refer to our article on the Best Camping Stoves of 2023, which lists 10 very useful stoves. And for those who are planning to purchase cookware, you can check out our article on the Best Pots and Pans of 2023. We believe you will be able to find the most suitable products in the article.
As a seasoned traveler, we believe you may need other camping equipment, and we have prepared more useful and necessary tools for you to follow to be prepared for any situation.
Recommendation List
- Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill ($289.99)
- Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill ($166.30)
- Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove | Tabletop Propane 2 in 1 ($94.49)
- SKOTTI Grill – Portable Gas Grill ($189.00)
- Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill ($95.95)
- Eureka! SPRK Portable Butane Camping Grill ($139.95)
- Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable ($127.99)
- Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill ($71.00)
- Adventure Seeka Heavy Duty 24″ Folding Campfire Grill ($59.95)
- CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills ($ 45.80)
1. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill ($289.99)
- Fuel: Propane
- Burners:3@Total 20,000 BTU
- BBQ area: 285 sq. in.
- What we like about it: Precise three-zone temperature control, huge grill area, and powerful burners.
- What we don’t like about it: The price is more expensive than any grill on the list.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is hands down the best portable gas grill on the market, whether it’s for its precise zone temperature control or its portable rolling design, it’s worth the praise.
With a massive 285 sq. in. cooking area, more fresh food can be grilled at once, making it ideal for larger BBQ parties with quicker serving times. The improved burner technology with 8 adjustable burners not only increases the grilling power by 20% but also allows for more precise control over the temperature in each of the three zones. With a range of grilling power from 3,250 to 20,000 BTUs, it can handle vegetables, seafood, and meat with ease.
To make it more convenient for chefs, Coleman thoughtfully equipped the grill with sliding side tables on either side, making it easy to access utensils and sauces. Additionally, thanks to quick-fold legs and 2 rugged wheels, this grill can be easily assembled, disassembled, and transported. Travelers can bring it to the campsite like pulling a rolling suitcase.
However, as a feature-packed high-quality grill, the price is not cheap compared to other items on the list. Additionally, the large size and weight do affect its portability to some extent.
2. Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill ($166.30)
- Fuel: Propane
- Burners:2@10,000 BTU
- Weight: 11 Pounds
- BBQ area: 274 sq. in.
- What we like about it: Light and compact camping grill, huge barbecue area.
- What we don’t like about it: Beware of burns during grilling.
The seemingly compact Pit Boss 200P is perfect for camping trips or tailgate parties as it comes equipped with all the essentials for grilling. With a huge 274 sq. in. cooking area, people can enjoy more grilled meats or seafood at the same time with less waiting time as the flames rise. The two independent push-and-turn ignition points can customize the flame size to meet the needs of different ingredients.
In addition, the folding legs and latching hood design make the Pit Boss 200P very portable, with a folded size of only 22.9 x 18.5 x 14.7 inches, it’s perfect for fitting in the trunk.
Both the main body and lid of the grill are made of 304 stainless steel, giving them excellent thermal conductivity. Therefore, if the chef wants to cover the grill to keep it warm during grilling or move the grill right after cooking, they must use a wet cloth or gloves for protection. Luckily, the stainless steel grill not only has reliable quality assurance but is also very lightweight. This means that users can easily lift the grill, which weighs only 11 pounds, by just putting on the lid and hosting a party.
3. Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove | Tabletop Propane 2 in 1 ($94.49)
- Fuel: Propane
- Burners:2@Total 20,000 BTU
- Weight: 7.5Pounds
- BBQ area: 130 sq. in.
- What we like about it: The two-in-one design is very practical and has more user-friendly details.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s not suitable for multi-person groups to get a quick meal out.
The Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove | Tabletop Propane 2 in 1 provides backpackers who want to simplify their gear with a great problem-solving solution. The design of the 2-in-1 grill and stove allows backpackers to meet both grilling and cooking needs with just one cooking device, making it very practical. People can heat soup with a 10-inch skillet and grill their favorite meats in the 130 sq. in. cooking area.
With the powerful Perfect Flow pressure control, backpackers can keep the heat at 20,000 BTUs in cold weather or at high altitudes, ensuring food freedom. This device comes with an adjustable temperature control knob that supports custom temperature settings. In addition, it is impeccable in its detailed design. The wind block side panels not only block wind and sand but also support the placement of larger skillets. Of course, they can also be folded down and used as a table to hold food. We love its removable drip tray design, which can collect grease that falls during cooking, making it more convenient to clean.
We have no complaints about the Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove because it’s just too perfect. However, due to its size, it’s not suitable for large group BBQ parties.
4. SKOTTI Grill – Portable Gas Grill ($189.00)
- Fuel: Gas, wood, or charcoal
- Burners: 8,500 BTUs, auto ignition
- BBQ area: 116 sq. in
- Weight: 7.7 lbs
- What we like about it: The most convenient camp grill, designed to support multiple fuels.
- What we don’t like about it: The need for long waiting times.
The SKOTTI Grill – Portable Gas Grill is a portable grill designed to meet outdoor camping and grilling needs. Despite its compact design, its detachable and foldable design makes it very practical. The 7.7-pound stainless steel grill can be broken down into “pieces” in just one minute and easily carried in the provided carrying bag, without taking up any space in luggage or the trunk.
With a fire-resistant stainless steel shell, this grill is very durable. Even after enduring more than 20 outdoor parties, it can be restored to its original condition if properly cleaned. Its reliable wind guard design can withstand strong wind and snow, ensuring stable flame burning. Additionally, the SKOTTI Grill not only supports standard isobutane gas camping stove canisters but also natural fuels such as wood and charcoal, making it equally friendly for short and long trips.
Although the SKOTTI Grill – Portable Gas Grill performs very well in practical experience, it also has some drawbacks. First, if using fuel combustion, its fuel capacity is small and can be quickly consumed during grilling activities, requiring regular replacement. In addition, its temperature control is not precise enough, which can lead to overcooked or undercooked food. Most importantly, the 116 sq. in. cooking area means longer wait times for food to be ready.
5. Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill ($95.95)
- Fuel: Propane
- Burners:1 @9,500 BTUs, auto ignition
- BBQ area: 240 sq. in.
- Weight: 28.2 lbs
- What we like about it: Huge grill area, thoughtful detailing
- What we don’t like about it: No support for partitioned grills.
The Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill has always been the best grill for those large groups and camping trips. With a huge 240 sq. in. cooking area, it can easily fit 6-8 burgers, meeting the dining needs of more people. The simple push-button ignition system allows for quick startup, making it very convenient to use.
The four sturdy legs supports provide more stability, so the grill can stand firmly even on the beach. Although there is no wind guard on the side, the lid can be placed vertically, effectively blocking the wind and sand from damaging items. To facilitate temperature control by the chef, Char-Broil has equipped the lid with a built-in temperature gauge, which is very reliable. In addition, the painted porcelain body has carry handles, which not only provide insulation but also make it easy to carry.
It is a little regrettable that although it has a large cooking area, this grill does not support separate burners. Therefore, it cannot support the simultaneous preparation of more refined foods, and chefs can only grill foods of the same type at once. Of course, you will forgive this shortcoming when you see its price tag of only $95.95.
6. Eureka! SPRK Portable Butane Camping Grill ($139.95)
- Fuel: Butane
- Burners:1 @7,250 BTUs, auto ignition
- BBQ area: 120 sq. in.
- Weight: 8.5 lbs
- What we like about it: Reliable portable camp grill, longer burn time.
- What we don’t like about it: The need for long waiting times.
If you are planning a romantic trip with your significant other or a family outing with your partner and children, be sure to bring the Eureka! SPRK Portable Butane Camping Grill. It uses portable butane fuel SPRK and has an extremely compact and fully functional all-in-one design.
Unlike other propane fuels, butane fuel is not only lighter but also has higher combustion efficiency. Therefore, at maximum power, this Eureka! SPRK can extend the burning time to 90 minutes. With automatic ignition and a quick-start burner that supports precise flame control, the maximum 7,250 BTUs can achieve the perfect sear. As a tabletop camping grill, Eureka also comes with rubber non-slip feet that can adjust the height to achieve a stable placement.
In addition, the refreshing exterior design also indicates that it is very easy to clean and maintain a neat appearance. Because both the non-stick ceramic grates and removable dishwasher-safe drip tray make cleaning easier and simpler.
However, because it does not come with a wind guard, it is not very suitable for outdoor use in strong winds. Therefore, users should set up a wind guard in advance or try to complete the grilling inside a tent.
7. Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable ($ 127.99)
- Fuel: Propane
- Burners: 5,500 BTUs
- BBQ area: 145 sq. in
- Weight: 13.5 lbs
- What we like about it: The most convenient camp grill, designed to support multiple fuels.
- What we don’t like about it: The need for long waiting times.
If you are looking for the perfect camping grill that is convenient to carry with you for your beach, tailgate, hiking, fishing, or camping party needs, consider the Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable. Its compact size also allows for easy storage in small spaces. The Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable, which looks like a briefcase, has a pair of reliable aluminum legs and stabilizing feet that allow it to stand firmly on a tabletop.
The seemingly small stainless steel grill has a 145 sq. in. grilling area, which can accommodate 8 steaks, 8 hamburgers, 6-10 chicken breasts, or over 4 pounds of fish, meeting the dining needs of all family members. Although the grill uses stainless steel as its main material, the outer wrapping material can effectively insulate heat. Even if the skin accidentally touches it, it will not cause burns. Therefore, this grill also supports moving positions during grilling.
The shortcomings of the Cuisinart CGG-180T are also very obvious. It can only support a maximum of 5,500 BTUs, which means users need more waiting time. Fortunately, in terms of design, it is equipped with a reliable lid that can not only block wind and dust but also achieve better insulation.
8. Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill ($71.00)
- Fuel: Charcoal
- Material: Durable plated steel
- BBQ area: 160 sq. in.
- What we like about it: Rugged cooking grate, reliable box design.
- What we don’t like about it: The inconvenience of adding charcoal to the fire when cooking.
The Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is a very interesting barbecue grill. Its appearance looks a bit like a suitcase, and the workmanship and appearance are very similar to a portable gas grill, but it is a charcoal grill. The durable and sturdy plated steel cooking grate is not only good for heat retention but also easy to clean. It provides a 160 sq. in. cooking area, which can accommodate 6 burgers or 4 medium-sized steaks for heating at the same time.
The wrap-around flame design not only effectively prevents strong winds from threatening the flames, but also makes cleaning more convenient. The porcelain-enameled lid and base retain heat, which not only has reliable quality, but also has good insulation performance, so it will not easily burn the chef’s exposed skin.
However, the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill also has its shortcomings. Although people can control the heat by increasing the charcoal, if they want to change the heat during cooking, they must first remove the steel grill. The steel grill is embedded in the stove and is burnt to become extremely hot, making it inconvenient to take. If the Weber Go-Anywhere were equipped with a handle on both sides, or if users were provided with a pair of tongs, this barbecue grill would be more attractive.
9. Adventure Seeka Heavy Duty 24″ Folding Campfire Grill ($59.95)
- Fuel: Firewood, charcoal, coal
- Material: alloy steel
- Size: 13.5 x 15.9 x 3 inches
- What we like about it: More economical grill, griddle, and grill at the same time.
- What we don’t like about it: The need for a more patient cook.
For teams on a tight budget, the Adventure Seeka Heavy Duty 24″ Folding Campfire Grill is an economical choice. Made of alloy steel, this grill is very sturdy and durable and can be used with charcoal, wood, and coal as fuel. Additionally, the grill can be easily folded into a “small box” for storage in the trunk without taking up too much space.
To give club members the freedom to choose, this grill has a divided design, with both a griddle and a grill, allowing for the creation of bacon, eggs, toast, steaks, pancakes, sausages, and even pineapple slices.
Although Adventure Seeka supports cheaper and more easily available fuels such as charcoal or wood, chefs need to prepare a suitable fire pit for the grill before cooking. In addition, chefs need to be more patient with the grilling process since the heat cannot be controlled. Finally, this grill is not suitable for use on windy days because it is not convenient for flames to burn and it is not dustproof.
10. CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills ($ 45.80)
- Fuel: Firewood, charcoal, coal
- Material: stainless steel
- Size: unfolded 13.8 “x13.4 “x10.2” (height), folded: 13.8 “x7.9 “x3.5”
- Weight: 7.7lb / 3.5kg
- What we like about it: Charcoal grill equipped with a fire pit, very cheap and practical.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s a little complicated to assemble and disassemble.
Considering the above Adventure Seeka Heavy Duty 24″ Folding Campfire Grill requires users to build their fire pit is relatively troublesome, we also chose this CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills with fire pit recommended to We also recommend the CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills with fire pit. With the fire pit, people do not need to find a special piece of yellow ground to put it, people can start the party on the lawn. Although not equipped with a griddle, the sturdy stainless steel grill, which is very strong, supports 3-4 members to have a delicious barbecue at the same time. However, this practical camping grill is also more advantageous in price, only $ 45.80, very good value.
Like the Adventure Seeka above, the CAMPINGMOON requires more careful care from the chef as there is no direct control over the heat. Fortunately, this grill has two stages of adjustable height to control the cooking heat. It also has a windshield at the fire pit, so people don’t have to worry about high winds extinguishing the fire. However, unlike Adventure Seeka’s simple folding performance, more elaborate components mean more complex assembly and disassembly. Fortunately, the CAMPINGMOON, which is completely disassembled and folded, can easily fit into the complimentary storage bag.
About Portable Grills
- Burning area size
- Burner and partition design
- Fuel Type
- Portability
- The importance of windshields
Burning Area Size
I believe most users can’t help but pay attention to the size of their grill when choosing the best grill for their party. Generally speaking, users should choose according to the number of people in the group.
For single or couple trips, stoves such as the Eureka! SPRK Portable Butane Camping Grill, SKOTTI Grill – Portable Gas Grill, and Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove are sufficient to support a la carte dining.
And for a family of three or four, it’s good to choose the medium-sized Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable, Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill, and CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills.
As the population increases, grills such as the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill or the Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill will be more appropriate.
Of course, if there are more of you, it is recommended that you let your companion also bring a barbecue grill to share the pressure will be better.
Burner and Partition Design
If you and your friends are looking forward to more sophisticated food or more fancy cuisine, we recommend choosing portable gas grills that have more burners, or temperature-regulated control switches, whenever possible.
Because the traditional camp charcoal grill can’t adjust the flame at any time, the control of the fire is also crucial for grilled food.
Especially for summer camping, because even the most diligent cook can’t stand in front of the stove all the time, keeping an eye on the size of the fire and the state of the food. So choosing a portable gas grill will save you and your friends a lot of worries.
Fuel Type
Propane and Butane
The vast majority of camping grills we commonly see on the market today use propane, which can be purchased everywhere in gas bottles, as a fuel because it is more convenient. On a hot summer day, all it takes is one tank to provide a steady stream of heat. Therefore, most of the portable gas grills we have chosen, such as Coleman RoadTrip, Pit Boss Grills, Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove, etc., use this fuel.
Of course, butane fuel is also a good choice. This is because it has greater advantages in terms of weight and terms of combustion adequacy and heat release. They are just more expensive and not as easily available, so we chose only one Eureka! SPRK.
Most of these best grills that use gas fuel have one thing in common, and that is that they support custom heat, allowing for finer heat control. And with simple ignition control, it is very convenient for summer party preparation.
Charcoal and Other Fuels
Of course, in addition to gas and liquid fuels, there are also charcoal and firewood, the most primitive materials gifted by nature, which can also provide heat for the barbecue grill. For tour groups who want to travel light, even if they don’t carry charcoal, they can still make the barbecue stand fire successfully by collecting firewood.
With no elaborate control configurations, etc., these grills also have a cheaper price tag, making them perfect for traveling on a shoestring.
Portability
Whether you’re backpacking or driving to your destination in a group, you don’t expect bulky equipment. Because the equipment will eventually need to be carried on the user’s back or carried to the lawn or beach, so portability is something we have to consider.
Although many of the camping grills on our list seem to have a large body, they are either easy to carry, support folding, or are themselves very lightweight.
Take the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill, which supports multiple parties, and is equipped with pulleys to make it easy to carry. Just drag it like a suitcase and you can get to your destination quickly.
Another example is the seemingly huge CAMPINGMOON Stainless Steel Foldable Camping Grills, which supports disassembly and folding design, allowing it to eventually become a “handbag”, weighing only 7.7lb and taking up no volume.
The importance of windshields
Although it is less likely to be windy during the hot summer months, the weather is always unpredictable and, secondly, the dust in the air can be a threat to the food. Therefore, choosing a camping grill with a windbreak design will not only ensure faster food delivery but will also keep the food healthier. Therefore grills such as Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove, Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable, Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, etc. should be given higher attention.
Of course, if the forecast tells you that the weather will be exceptionally sunny, or you can find other wind-blocking equipment or wind-free outdoor areas, then you can ignore this problem as well.
Conclusion
Many times when we choose grills we also go for their versatility. For example, choosing the Coleman Gas Camping Grill/Stove with Grill and Stove 2 in 1 design not only reduces the weight of the backpacker’s bag but also saves money (no need to buy additional stoves). Or, choose the Adventure Seeka with both a griddle and grill design, which allows users to enjoy fried eggs or other delicacies while eating grilled meat. All these functional designs will be more attractive.
Although each of our handpicked best grills can’t be perfect, they are the best camp portable grills for barbecue parties this summer. Hope every reader can find the best camp grill in this article.
Finally, if you like our content, please share it with your friends! If you find our content helpful, we appreciate your click to subscribe!
