Picking Your Perfect Portable Grill

Choosing a portable grill is a bit like choosing a travel buddy. You want someone reliable, easy to get along with, and who can handle an adventure. Here are some things to consider:

Camping Grill Fuel

Just like us, portable grills need fuel to function. The type of fuel you choose can have a significant impact on your Cooking experience. Here are some common types:

• Propane: A propane tank is a popular choice for portable grills due to its convenience and ease of use. It burns clean and hot, providing consistent heat that’s easy to control. This makes it ideal for a variety of foods, from delicate fish to hearty steaks. Propane is also readily available and comes in portable cylinders, making it a great option for camping.
• Charcoal: Charcoal grills are the traditionalists of the portable grill world. They take a bit more effort to set up and control, but the smoky flavor they impart to food is hard to beat. Charcoal is perfect for slow, low-heat cooking and for foods that benefit from a smoky flavor, like ribs and brisket.
• White Gas: Also known as liquid camp stove fuel, white gas is a clean-burning fuel that works well in a variety of conditions, including high altitudes and cold temperatures. It’s a good option for campers who need a reliable fuel source in challenging conditions.
• Backpacking Fuel Canisters: These canisters typically contain a blend of propane and butane used on a gas grill. They’re lightweight and compact, making them a good choice for backpackers or campers who need to save space. However, they may not provide as much heat output as other fuel types.

Each fuel type has its pros and cons, and the best one for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your cooking style, the types of food you plan to cook, and the conditions you’ll be camping in when choosing your fuel type.

Size and Portability

Think about your camping style. Are you a backpacker, a car camper, or an RV enthusiast? Your camping style will determine the size and portability of your grill. If you’re always on the move, a compact and lightweight portable grill will be your best friend.

Price

Portable grills come in all shapes and sizes, and their prices vary just as much. Set a budget for your grill, but remember, a good portable grill is an investment. It’s not just about the price tag, it’s about the value it brings to your camping trips.

What to Look for When Buying a Camping Grill

Choosing the perfect portable grill is a bit like finding the right travel companion. You want something reliable, easy to get along with, and ready for an adventure. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Fuel Type: As we’ve discussed, the type of fuel a grill uses can significantly impact your cooking experience. Whether it’s propane, charcoal, white gas, or backpacking fuel canisters, consider what will work best for your camping style and culinary preferences.
• Size and Portability: The size and portability of your portable grills are crucial. If you’re a backpacker or a hiker, you’ll want something lightweight and compact. If you’re car camping or RVing, you might have a bit more room to play with. Consider how much space you have and how much you’re willing to carry.
• Cooking Area: Think about how much food you’ll be cooking at once. If you’re cooking for a large group, you’ll need a grill with a larger cooking space. If it’s just you and a friend, a smaller grill might do the trick.
• Heat Control: Good heat control is key to great grilling. Look for a grill that allows you to easily adjust the heat. This is especially important if you plan to cook a variety of foods that require different temperatures.

2. Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill

Best Portable Charcoal Grill

Overview

The Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Cube is a 17-inch portable charcoal grill designed for convenient outdoor cooking. It features a lightweight design, integrated food-grade storage tray and bamboo preparation board, making it an ideal companion for picnics, beach trips, and camping.

Highlights

• Portable and lightweight design for easy transportation
• Integrated food-grade storage tray and bamboo preparation board
• Durable steel construction with a high-temperature finish
• Cool-to-touch handles for safe handling
• Easy to clean with a removable charcoal tray

Pricing

$199.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

The Everdure Cube is best suited for individuals or families who love outdoor cooking and need a portable, easy-to-use solution. Its design and features make it a great choice for picnics, beach trips, and camping. If you’re looking for a high-quality, portable charcoal grill, the Everdure Cube is worth considering.

4. Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro

Best Pellet Camping Grill

Overview

The Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill is a versatile, all-in-one electric grill that offers the best of grilling, BBQ smoking, and cooking performance. It’s perfect for those who love the authentic flavor of woodfire cooking but live in apartments or have limited outdoor space. This electrically powered grill uses real wood pellets to infuse your food with rich, smoky flavor, making it a top contender for the best pellet camping grill.

Highlights

• Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, & Air Fryer: All in one, delivering 100% authentic woodfire flavors.
• Foolproof BBQ Smoker: Create authentic BBQ bark and flavor fast and easy with just 1/2 cup of pellets.
• Outdoor Air Fryer: Cook all your side dishes outdoors and add woodfire flavor to your air-fried favorites.
• Woodfire Technology: Powered by electricity, flavored by real burning wood pellets. Create rich woodfire flavor you can see and taste with any cook function.
• Built-in Thermometer: Monitors your food’s progress and alerts you when done so you can enjoy the cookout while food cooks to perfection.
• Weather-Resistant & Apartment-Friendly: Cook and store outdoors year-round. Electrically powered–no charcoal, propane, or flareups.

Pricing

$399.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

The Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill is perfect for those who love the taste of woodfire cooking but don’t have the space for a traditional grill or smoker. It’s also a great choice for apartment dwellers, as it’s electrically powered and doesn’t produce flare-ups.

This grill is not just a cooking device; it’s an experience. From the moment you add the wood pellets and smell the smoke, to when you take your first bite of perfectly grilled, smoked, or air-fried food, you’ll understand why this is considered one of the best camping grills for camping. So, why wait? Give it a try and experience the magic of wood fire cooking wherever you are.

5. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Standup Grill

Best Standup Camping Grill

Overview

I’ve found the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Standup Propane Gas Grill to be an incredibly powerful and versatile grilling companion for all my camping escapades. With a whopping 20,000 total BTUs and a generous grilling area, it’s equipped to tackle any grilling challenge with ease. The sturdy quick-fold legs and wheels make setup and transport a cinch, making it my go-to for all outdoor adventures.

Highlights

• Cooking Performance: The grill’s impressive 20,000 total BTUs have consistently delivered powerful grilling capabilities on all my trips.
• Adjustable Burners: The improved burner technology has allowed me to control the temperature more precisely than ever before.
• Large Grilling Area: The 285 square inches cooking space has been a game-changer, letting me cook a variety of foods simultaneously.
• Easy Setup: I’ve found the sturdy quick-fold legs and 2 wheels incredibly convenient, making setup and transport a breeze.
• Integrated Thermometer: This feature has been a lifesaver, allowing me to accurately monitor the temperature and ensure perfectly cooked food every time.

Pricing

$319.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

In my experience, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Standup Propane Gas Grill is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a powerful, versatile, and easy-to-use portable gas grill. Whether I’ve been cooking for a crowd or just for myself, this grill has delivered excellent performance every time. It’s truly the best standup portable grill I’ve ever used, and it’s made my camping trips even more enjoyable.

6. Coleman Gas Camping Grill

Best Compact Camping Grill

Overview

In my experience, the Coleman Tabletop Propane Camping Grill has been a compact and versatile cooking companion for all my camping trips. Its 2-in-1 design has allowed me to use the grill and stove simultaneously, making it perfect for preparing a variety of meals. Despite its compact size, this portable gas grill has provided up to 20,000 total BTUs of cooking power. In conclusion, investing in the best compact camping grill is a smart decision for outdoor enthusiasts who value convenience and versatility.

Highlights

• 2-in-1 Design: This feature has enabled me to use the portable gas propane grill and stove at the same time, offering a 130 sq. in. grilling area and a stove that fits a 10-in. pan.
• Cooking Power: With up to 20,000 total BTUs, this grill/stove has consistently offered powerful cooking capabilities.
• Pressure Regulator: The pressure-control technology has ensured consistent performance, even in extreme conditions.
• PerfectHeat Technology: This technology has led to more efficient cooking with less fuel.
• 2 Adjustable Burners: These have allowed for precise temperature control, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time.

Pricing

$134.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

From my perspective, the Coleman Tabletop Propane Camping Grill is the perfect choice for anyone wanting a compact yet powerful portable gas grill for camping. With its 2-in-1 design and advanced features, this grill/stove has been designed to make my outdoor cooking experience enjoyable and hassle-free. It’s truly one of the best compact portable grill I’ve ever used, and it’s made my camping trips even more memorable.

7. Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill

Best Flat Top Griddle Camping Grill

Overview

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me, then the Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill Without Hood Propane Fuelled is a must-have for your adventures. It’s more than just a portable propane gas grill—it’s an outdoor culinary companion that has been by my side during camping trips, tailgating parties, and even picnics. In summary, with its durable construction and versatile cooking capabilities, the best flat top griddle camping grill is the perfect addition to any camping trip.

Highlights

• Convenience and Portability: This grill has become my go-to because of its easy-to-use electric igniter and handy grease catcher. It’s perfect for all sorts of outdoor occasions.
• Easy Storage: After a day of grilling, I simply turn the griddle top upside down to save space—a feature I particularly appreciate when packing for a trip.
• No-hassle Cleanup: Cleanup has never been easier with this Blackstone grill. A quick wipe with a paper towel is all it needs!
• Spacious Cooking Space: With 260 square inches of heavy duty cooking space, I have ample room to cook for my whole crew.
• Fast and Even Heating: The grill’s stainless Steel “H” Burner heats up rapidly and evenly—a feature that has made cooking a joy.

Pricing

$214.87 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves to cook up a storm wherever you go, this product is definitely for you. Whether it’s a camping trip or a tailgating party, the Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill delivers on performance and convenience. It’s become an essential part of my outdoor gear.

This grill isn’t just about functionality—it’s about creating memorable experiences. There’s nothing quite like firing it up and cooking a meal under the open sky. And with the Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill, you get more than just a cooking appliance, you get a trusty companion that’s there to fuel your adventures. Give it a try—I bet you’ll love it as much as I do.

8. Blackstone 1860 On The Go Range

Best Camping Grill Griddle Combo

Overview

As an avid camper, I’m always on the hunt for innovative gear that could enhance my outdoor cooking experiences. The Blackstone On The Go 22″ Range Top Portable Griddle is just that – more than a basic portable grill, it’s a versatile and comprehensive outdoor cooking solution. The moment I fired it up, my previous camping gear seemed inadequate. With its compact design yet expansive cooking area, this griddle has revolutionized my camping culinary experiences. In essence, the best camping grill griddle combo is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast looking to prepare delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors.

Highlights

• Compact Yet Powerful: Despite its compact design, the Blackstone On The Go 22″ Range Top Portable Griddle offers a generous 22-inch cooking space that includes two independently controlled cooking zones. This allows me to cook a sumptuous breakfast, fulfilling lunch, or delightful dinner for a family of six famished campers, just like at home – sometimes even better!
• Sturdy Construction: Compared to other portable grills and griddles I’ve tried, the Blackstone On The Go 22″ Range Top Portable Griddle stands out. Its weight and robust build confer assuring reliability that its rivals struggle to match. It’s far from being a toy; this griddle is genuinely designed for outdoor cooking aficionados.
• Versatile Cooking Options: This portable griddle lets me cook eggs, hash browns, French toast, bacon, hamburgers, and all manner of delicious dishes. The griddle surface features dual stainless steel “H” burners that can be independently adjusted, adding to its versatility.
• Stable and Adjustable: When I’m out camping, the ground isn’t always even. Here, the griddle’s four sturdy feet are a game-changer, ensuring stability on uneven terrains.

Pricing

$426.60 

Bottom Line

In my experience, the Blackstone On The Go 22″ Range Top Portable Griddle is an exceptional choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts seeking more than your typical portable grill. It’s an ideal companion for extended camping trips, where its weight and setup time are more than offset by its versatility and sturdy construction. So if you’re planning a long camping trip, this might just be the portable gas grill you’ve been waiting for.

9. Redcamp Swivel Campfire Grill

Best Over Fire Camping Grill

Overview

As someone who thrives in the great outdoors, I find the REDCAMP Heavy-Duty Swivel Campfire Grill to be a remarkable addition to my outdoor culinary gear. This superior over-fire portable grill is constructed with high-grade cold-rolled steel, which not only offers durability but also ensures consistent performance.

Boasting a grilling surface of 16.9 x 12.2 inches and an adaptable height, it provides a dynamic cooking experience, whether I’m pitching a tent in the wilderness or just lighting up a backyard bonfire. So, it’s clear: the best over fire camping grill redefines outdoor cooking standards.

Highlights

• Resilient Material: The composition of this grill is impressive, as it’s crafted from top-notch cold-rolled steel, guaranteeing a robust and performance-oriented outdoor companion.
• Versatile Design: One of the features that I find truly useful is the grill’s adjustable height, which perfectly adapts to the height of the campfire. The innovative spiral design handle also does a great job of keeping itself cool, even when things get heated.
• Innovative Design: The grill’s unique steel diamond-shaped mesh grill top is another feature I appreciate, as it ensures efficient heat flow from the campfire below. Additionally, its curved outline makes sure my food stays put and doesn’t roll off.
• Lightweight and Portable: As an adventurer, I value equipment that is portable. This grill is light and easy to carry, making it an excellent fit for camping, tailgating, and other alfresco activities.

Pricing

$76.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.

Bottom Line

In my view, the REDCAMP Heavy-Duty Swivel Campfire Grill is the premier choice for over-fire portable grills for those, like me, who have a passion for outdoor cooking. Its solid build, adaptable design, cooking space, and portability make it an indispensable part of any camping adventure. Take your outdoor cooking experience to new heights and feel the thrill of preparing meals over an open fire with this top-tier grill. 

10. Coleman Tripod Grill

Best Tripod Grill

Overview

The Coleman Tripod Grill and Lantern Hanger is an exceptional camping tool, blending practicality and comfort in a way that amplifies the joy of the outdoor experience. Its innovative design caters to both cooking and illumination needs during camping trips. Constructed from robust galvanized steel, this grill promises longevity even amidst the demands of the great outdoors. Undoubtedly, the best tripod grill elevates outdoor culinary adventures to new heights.

Highlights

• Robust Material: Constructed from long-lasting galvanized steel, the tripod grill confidently stands up to direct heat cooking.
• Multi-functional: Serving as both a grill and a lantern holder, this item adds a touch of versatility to my camping adventures, making it an indispensable piece in my collection.
• Customizable Grill Grate: The grill grate, with its 17-inch diameter, can be smoothly adjusted to sit at the perfect distance from the fire, optimizing the cooking process to match your needs.
• Easily Transportable: The shock-corded legs of the grill can be collapsed conveniently, simplifying storage and making transportation a breeze.

Pricing

$34.99 However, check back often, sales are run all the time.