Top 6 Best Portable Propane Grills For Camping

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With the best portable propane grill, you do not need to have a spacious outdoor cooking space to have grill master-level results.  These grills are designed to feature the best portability that makes it easy to carry them around for outdoor activities like camping. The grills bring the best outdoor adventure when you are enjoying a day out with family, friends and colleagues. These grills are also extremely convenient and provide for a clean cooking environment. They are instant to light up, unlike charcoal grills that tend to be cumbersome to set up. Our top pick for the best portable grill for camping is the Cuisinart CGG180 CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill. This compact propane grill has a VersaStand that makes it easy and convenient to use the grill in outdoor spaces.

Quick Summary

Best overall
Cuisinart CGG180 CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill with VersaStand Red
Best for camping and tailgating
NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill, Small, Mini, Lightweight Tabletop BBQ
Best for heavy-duty grilling
Coleman Gas Camping Stove, Classic Propane Stove-2 Burner
Best electric portable grill
Weber 55020001 Q 2400 Electric Grill
Best budget grill
Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill
Best for heavy-duty outdoor grilling
Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill
Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand, Red
NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill | Small, Lightweight BBQ | Perfect for Camping, Tailgating, Outdoor Cooking, RV, Boats, Travel | Tabletop (Grill)
Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner, 4.1 x 21.9 x 13.7 Inches
Weber Q2400 Electric Grill , Grey
Coleman Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill, Lightweight & Portable Grill with Instastart Push-Button Ignition, Adjustable Horseshoe Burner, Built-In Handle, & 6,000 BTUs of Power
Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill , Gray
$175.00
$199.99
$58.97
$349.99
Price not available
$374.99
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Amazon Prime
-
-
Best overall
Cuisinart CGG180 CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill with VersaStand Red
Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand, Red
$175.00
Amazon Prime
Best for camping and tailgating
NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill, Small, Mini, Lightweight Tabletop BBQ
NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill | Small, Lightweight BBQ | Perfect for Camping, Tailgating, Outdoor Cooking, RV, Boats, Travel | Tabletop (Grill)
$199.99
Amazon Prime
Best for heavy-duty grilling
Coleman Gas Camping Stove, Classic Propane Stove-2 Burner
Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner, 4.1 x 21.9 x 13.7 Inches
$58.97
-
Best electric portable grill
Weber 55020001 Q 2400 Electric Grill
Weber Q2400 Electric Grill , Grey
$349.99
Amazon Prime
Best budget grill
Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill
Coleman Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill, Lightweight & Portable Grill with Instastart Push-Button Ignition, Adjustable Horseshoe Burner, Built-In Handle, & 6,000 BTUs of Power
Price not available
-
Best for heavy-duty outdoor grilling
Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill
Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill , Gray
$374.99
-

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top 6 Best Portable Propane Grills For Camping

#1, Cuisinart CGG180 CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill with VersaStand Red- Best overall

Sale
Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand, Red
  • 150 SQ. IN. PORCELAIN ENAMELED COOKING GRATE: Cooking surface measures 15.5" x 9.75" for 150-square-inches of grilling space that is large enough to accommodate up to 8 hamburgers at a time..Frequency : 60 Hz
  • GRILL DIMENSIONS: Grill measures 30" W x 19.5" D x 30.25" H when full deployed. When folded, the grill measures 22.5" W x 19.5" D x 10.25" H. Lid locks shut for easy portability.
  • 5,500 BTU BURNER: Features a 5,500 BTU burner, a twist to start electric ignition for easy start-up. NOTE: Does not include Propane Tank.
  • USE AS A FREESTANDING OR TABLETOP GRILL: Unique design allows you to use the grill as a freestanding or tabletop grill
  • FAST AND EASY SETUP AND BREAKDOWN: The grill requires no assembly and can be set up and ready for grilling in under 10 minutes without the need for tools or matches.

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Unlike other portable grills that tend to fall apart after a few months, this Cuisinart CGG180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill is durable and solid. As such, it is idea for moving around with even on hilly and uneven terrains. The stand of the grill is equally sturdy and has a flat base that makes it easy to set it up in the jungle. The stand is fold-able for easy storage and portability. Since it is a propane grill, you never have to worry about cleaning any mess after grilling your favorite meal. The grill provides for a clean and environment-friendly grilling experience.

Compact design

This Cuisinart Propane grill has a compact design that makes it easy to move the grill around when camping or when you are having a party in your backyard. Measuring 19 inches by 11.5 inches by 10 inches, the grill is easy to pack and pack it alongside other camping gear. Weighing an impressive 17 lbs, this pan is lightweight and thus convenient to carry from one point to the other. The light weight of the grill coupled by its compactness make it ideal for use on patios, balconies, and decks, and for tailgating, and camping among other outdoor activities.

Another amazing aspect about this grill is that it is easy and fast to assemble and dissemble. The stand is easy to set up instantly and packs away in split seconds. What is more amazing to note about the grill is that it comes with an integrated lid lock that is handy when grilling your food. Additionally, the grill has a pronounced briefcase-style handle that provides for easy transport.

Freestanding grill

The design of this Cuisinart propane grill makes it possible to use the cooker as a unique freestanding grill. In line with this, the grill accommodates up to 6 people at a time thereby allowing you to bond with friends and family as you collectively prepare your food. The stand in the grill holds the cooker at an ideal cooking height thus ensuring that you do not strain or tire your muscles when grilling your food.

The grill has a drip tray that allows you to collect drippings and grease for effortless and quick clean up. Additionally, there is a gas regulator in the grill that allows you to monitor gas flow into the grill from the propane gas. This provides you with freedom to regulate how fast or slow you want to grill your food. The 160 square-inches of premium quality porcelain enameled grates that give you a large cooking surface that can accommodate a lot of food at once.

Pros
  • Fast and easy to setup
  • Features a gas regulator for controlling the flow of gas into the grill
  • Easy to clean up as it has a drip tray
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Spacious cooking surface
Cons
  • Requires you to carry a propane gas tank wherever you want to use the grill

#2, NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill, Small, Mini, Lightweight Tabletop BBQ- Best for camping and tailgating

NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill | Small, Lightweight BBQ | Perfect for Camping, Tailgating, Outdoor Cooking, RV, Boats, Travel | Tabletop (Grill)
  • 💥Check out our bundles below for additional savings💰
  • ✅ TRULY COMPACT AND PORTABLE GAS GRILL TO TAKE ON-THE-GO - Weighing ONLY 12 pounds, the nomadiQ grills are easy to transport and can go anywhere: camp, tailgate, RV, boat, parks, hikes, boating, decks & patios, travel, apartments & tiny homes, beach, roadtrip and more. Can be used as a table top grill inside & outside. INCLUDES 2 Drip Trays, Gas Hose/Regulator, Carrying Strap (for easy transport) & Manual
  • ✅ Ultra portable - With a folded size of only 16 inches (40cm) wide, 14 inches (36cm) high and 6 inches (15cm) thick, the nomadiQ Grill is ultra portable for adventurers who want to grill where they’ve never grilled before.
  • ✅ Lightweight - Featuring aluminum die casted parts, the nomadiQ Grill has a total weight of only 12.3 pounds (5.6 kg), making it easy for anyone to carry.
  • ✅ Dual Temperature Control - Unlike most portable grills, the nomadiQ is unique with two independent grilling surfaces. Each grilling side can be controlled individually by the knobs positioned on the front. This feature is ideal for foods that require different cooking temperatures, or for simply keeping food warm.

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are in the market for a truly portable and compact gas grill, then you should look no further than at the NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill. Weighing only a mere 12 pounds, this grill is one of the lightest portable propane grills in the market. Consequently, its light weight makes it easy to carry and transport the grill to different outdoor spaces including hilly terrains. The compact grill is ideal for use in tiny balconies, small apartments and even in an RV.

Spacious cooking surface

With a 226 square inch cooking surface, this best portable propane grill provides its users with a massive cooking area that allows you to prepare a large volume of food at once. The ceramic coated non-stick grates provide plenty of room for grilling all your favorite food. What is more amazing about the spacious cooking surface in the grill is that it distributes heat efficiently and evenly thereby allowing the food to cook uniformly. The grates are also easily removable, rust resistant and are dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning.

This NomadiQ grill is made using superior quality steel. This heavy-duty steel construction features a powder coated finish that enhances the durability of the grill. In addition to this, the grill also comes with cast-iron plates and stainless-steel burners that enhance the overall durability of the grill. As such, you can comfortably use the grill in the harshest outdoor conditions and still get to enjoy the best grilling experience and adventure.

Dual burners

Featuring two separate grilling sides, this NomadiQ grill has almost 5,000 BTU on each grilling side making a total of about 10,000 BTU. Due to this unique design of the grill, it allows you to prepare your food in either one side of the grill or both sides. What is more amazing and intriguing about this grill is that the burners in either side are controlled independently. This allows you to prepare your food differently while using the same grill.

This grill is easy to setup as it only requires you less than a minute to set it up. This is because the grill sets up in three simple ways that are unlock, open, connect and then you can start grilling. The grill has unique heat conductivity that allows it to heat up faster so that you can start grilling right away. The electric PUSH-TO-START IGNITION SWITCH in the grill is designed to ignite the grill quickly and instantly.

Pros
  • Compact and portable design
  • Spacious cooking surface
  • Comes with 2 separate grilling sides
  • Rust-resistant and dishwasher safe grates
  • Easy and effortless to setup
Cons
  • Potentially dangerous if not connected well or if mishandled

#3, Coleman Gas Camping Stove, Classic Propane Stove-2 Burner- Best for heavy-duty grilling

Sale
Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner, 4.1 x 21.9 x 13.7 Inches
  • Cooking power: Up to 20,000 total BTUs. Fits a 12-inch and 10-inch pan at the same time
  • 2 adjustable burners: For precise temperature control
  • Wind-blocking panels: Shield burners from wind
  • Pressure regulator: Pressure-control technology for consistent performance, even in extreme conditions
  • Runtime: Up to 1 hour on high on one 16.4 oz. Propane cylinder (sold separately)

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Coleman Gas Camping Stove is a dependable stove that is specially designed and built for use in outdoor spaces for camping and other related adventures. The stove features two burners that give close to 20,000 BTUs thus providing the best grilling power. There are adjustable wind blocking panels that shield the burners from wind thereby maintaining a consistent flame. In addition to this, there is a pressure regulator in the stove that guarantees that the stove performs consistently even in harsh and extreme conditions.

Dual burners

Like other high-end best portable grills for camping, this Coleman gas camping stove comes with two burners. These burners provide you with the flexibility of grilling two types of foods consistently. These burners are placed consistently far apart from each other so that you can grill the foods independently. Additionally, both burners come with independent temperature regulators which allow you to control the intake of gas into the burners. This in turn allows you to regulate your grilling so that your food does not burn.

The PerfectFlow pressure technology in the burner is designed to keep the heat steady thereby allowing for consistent performance in all weather conditions including cold weather. This feature comes in handy as it allows you to use the grill conveniently in high attitudes or when the propane gas is low. It is worth noting that the gas stove has consistent performance at all times.

Perfect Heat

There is a Perfect Heat feature in this camping gas stove that facilitates a complete fuel combustion process. Consequently, this delivers efficient cooking heat to the food while ensuring that the burner consumes less fuel. This is quite reliable as it ensures that you are able to save on gas thereby providing you with great value for your money and economy.

The camping gas stove features side panels that shield the burners from blowing wind to ensure that the burners are able to maintain a stable and consistent flame. The most fascinating aspect about these wind blockers is that they are adjustable to fit larger cooking pans and grills. What is more exciting about these blockers is that they fold down and can thus be used as side tables.

Pros
  • Gas efficient hence economical
  • Comes with side panels that double as side tables
  • Adjustable burners that provide precise temperature control
  • High cooking power of up to 20,000 BTUs
  • Comes with two burners
Cons
  • Does not come with a stand

#4, Weber 55020001 Q 2400 Electric Grill- Best electric portable grill

Sale
Weber Q2400 Electric Grill , Grey
  • 1560-watt electric heating element to heat 280 square-inch total cooking area
  • Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and cast aluminum lid and body
  • .Dimensions (Inches) Lid Open : ( H x W x D) - 26 x 31.5 x 25.1(Inches); :Dimensions - Lid Closed (inches) 14.5 H x 31.5 W x 19.5 D
  • Fully assembled out of box, Infinite control burner valve settings. Fuel type-Electric. Power-1,560 W/120 V
  • 6-foot grounded cord. The appliance should be supplied through a residual current device (RCD) having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are in the market for the best portable grill that will not disappoint you, then you should consider investing in the Weber 55020001 Q 2400 Electric grill.  This easy to use grill comes with a large cooking grate coupled with unbeatable heat output, the grill ensures that it cooks your food to perfection.  With 280 square inches of cooking area, this electric grill is a great choice for people looking to grill a wide variety of foods when camping.

Electric heating element

The electric heating element in this Weber portable grill comes with a rating of 1560 watts. This rating ensures that the grill produces sufficient heat while ensuring that it does not consume too much power. The element boasts of great performance when it comes to heating the cooking area. What is more amazing about this grill for outdoor use is that heat is evenly distributed throughout the cooking area. This, in turn, ensures even and uniform grilling.

The 6-foot grounded cord in the grill provides for the flexibility of using the grill in outdoor spaces. You should supply power to this appliance using an RCD (residual current device) with a residual operating current of not more than 30mA. This appliance is assembled right out of the box thereby allowing you to enjoy instant use.

Superior construction

Weber designs and constructs this portable electric grill uniquely with a Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates that are complemented by a cast aluminum body and lid. This superior construction guarantees the durability and reliability of the appliance. Additionally, this handy construction ensures that the grill holds up well against damaging effects such as water and extreme sunlight.

The grill features infinite control burner-valve settings that allow you to vary the heat however you like. This grill a ‘clean’ mode of operation that helps in conserving the environment. What is more amazing about this grill is that it can be used indoors as it does not emit any smoke or gas.

Pros
  • Efficient and powerful grill
  • Sturdy and compact design
  • Superior construction hence durable
  • Long grounded cord for convenient use
  • Large cooking area
Cons
  • Its use is limited to only areas with an electric power source

#5, Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill- Best budget grill

Coleman Fold N Go 1-Burner Propane Grill, Lightweight & Portable Grill with Instastart Push-Button Ignition, Adjustable Horseshoe Burner, Built-In Handle, & 6,000 BTUs of Power
  • Portable folding grill with built-in handle for easy transport and storage
  • Delivers 6,000 BTUs of heat across 105 sq. in. of grilling surface
  • Adjustable horseshoe burner for precise temperature control and even heating
  • PerfectFlow technology ensures consistent performance even in extreme conditions
  • Removable dishwasher-safe cooking surface and grease tray for easy cleaning

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you have a limited budget but you are keen on investing in the best quality grill that is affordable but promises to deliver beyond your expectations, the Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill is the ultimate choice for you.  This folding grill is compact and has an inbuilt handle that allows for convenient storage and easy transport.  This inexpensive best portable grill for camping is a great choice for people who are constantly on the move and wish to grill delicious foods when on the road.

Compact design

When it comes to compactness, there is no grill that comes close to this Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill. Ideally, this is a small grill that is specially designed for the best portability. The durable handle in the grill is strong and provides for convenient handling when camping or out there in the jungle. In addition to this, the handle allows you to hang the grill whenever it is not in use, thereby offering you convenient storage.

This grill delivers up to 6,000 heat BTUs across the 105 square-inches grilling surface. This provides you with evenly distributed heat for grilling a wide variety of foods including meat. You can grill up to three types of foods on the grill at the same time. This in turn makes the grill to become a versatile and flexible for use in outdoor spaces.

Perfect Flow technology

Despite being quite affordable, it is worth noting that the appliance does not lack in its features. True to this, the grill comes with a PerfectFlow technology that provides for the consistent performance and reliability of the appliance even in the harshest and most extreme conditions. This technology plays a crucial role in providing for the all-round use of the appliance for all your grilling needs.

The removable grease tray and cooking surface in the grill are dishwasher-safe for easy and effortless cleaning. What is more to note about this grill is that it comes with an adjustable horseshoe burner that provides for precise and accurate temperature control as well as even heating.  This ensures that you are able to enjoy the best grilling results when using this affordable and dependable grill.

Pros
  • Compact and portable grill
  • Adjustable horseshoe burner with precise temperature control
  • Consistent performance in all conditions
  • Comes with an inbuilt handle for easy handling and storage
  • Dishwasher safe grease tray and cooking surface
Cons
  • The cooking surface area is limited

#6, Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill- Best for heavy-duty outdoor grilling

Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill , Gray
  • Total cooking area = 280 Square Inches
  • Stainless steel burner puts out 12,000 BTU-per-hour
  • Porcelain-enameled, cast iron cooking grates
  • Electronic ignition with built in thermometer
  • Two folding work tables

Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gas grills are a perfect choice for most people as they are extremely convenient, simple to start, heat up quickly and are able to maintain a steady temperature. True to this, the Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is one of the best options for people shopping for the best portable propane gas grill.  This high-end appliance comes with several features that include an unmatched heat output and large cooking grate.

Large cooking surface

The 280 square-inch porcelain enameled and cast-iron cooking grate in this propane grill is one of the largest cooking grates in portable gas grills for camping.  You can therefore use this appliance to grill more than one food type at a time. As such, with this appliance, you can save on fuel and time through simultaneous grilling.  Additionally, the grill comes with two working tables that fold to enhance the compactness of the grill.

The cast-iron grate with a porcelain enamel in the appliance is not only durable but heats up quite fast while still ensuring that it retains heat for long.  The grates are resistant to rusting and corrosion and hence you can use the appliance in all conditions including wet weather.

Electronic ignition

Lighting this appliance is a breeze as it comes with an electric ignition that has an inbuilt thermometer. This ignition saves you the trouble of having to carry a lighter when out in the woods camping. The best thing about this ignition is that it is highly efficient and hence never fails. The cast aluminum body and lid are durable and designed to provide you with the best performance throughout the grill’s life.

Another unique feature about this grill is that it comes with an infinite control burner valve. This valve allows you to regulate gas flow into the grill thereby allowing to enjoy precise temperature control. The catch pan in the grill is removable for easy cleaning. The sturdy base of the grill makes it easy for the grill to rest easily on all surfaces including earth and rocky terrains.

Pros
  • Durable cooking grates
  • Large cooking surface
  • Has an electronic ignition
  • Stainless steel burner that delivers 12,000 BTUs per hour
  • Has two folding tables
Cons
  • Considerably pricey

Buying guide

If you are shopping for the best portable grill for camping, you will soon notice that this is not a simple task. This is because there are tons of models to choose from when it comes to these appliances. Some of the toasters in the market are poor quality while others are quite sturdy and reliable. However, here are a few tips that will help you narrow down your search for the best and most reliable portable grill.

Fuel type

The main way that grills differ from each other is by the type of fuel that they use.  The most common fuels used by these appliances include propane gas, charcoal, electricity, and pellets.  Each of these fuels comes with its fair share of advantages and disadvantages. Charcoal and pellets are the least recommended fuels as they tend to be cumbersome to light and messy to clean after use. Electricity is a good fuel but its use is limited to availability. Propane gas is the best type of fuel due to its portability, ease of lighting, and it is a clean fuel.

Size

After deciding on the best fuel type, the next aspect that you should put to consideration is the size of the grill. If you are planning to be grilling for about 4-6 people, then you should not necessarily invest in a large grill. Two-burner grills are the best size as they come with unique flexibility and versatility as they allow you to grill different foods at once.  Grills with 400-500 square-inch cooking grates are the modest size for people who wish to grill for a large group of people. However, size is a personal consideration that depends on your preferences and tastes.

Aesthetics

You should invest in a grill that can do more than simply cooking. This is because you should buy a grill that looks good too.  The best grill to settle for should be colorful and have an attractive appearance. Avoid buying grills with boring color shades and themes. Stylish grills provide the best value for your money.

Temperature control

When it comes to grills; whether portable or not, temperature control is an important aspect. This is because it determines how well and efficiently you will be able to prepare your meals. Additionally, grills with excellent and precise temperature control allow you to customize the grilling process however you like. In addition to control, temperature consistency is yet another factor to consider. This is because consistency and ability to hold heat (both high and low) enhance even and uniform cooking.

Assembly and sturdiness

The ease of assembly of portable grills is yet another important aspect worth considering when you are shopping for the ideal grill to buy. Ideally, you should settle on grills that come pre-assembled at the factory or those whose assembly is easy and straightforward. Avoid models that are complex to assemble as they end up wasting your precious time as you assemble the grill. Sturdiness comes in handy as far as the durability of the grill is concerned.  Sturdy grills are durable and come with guaranteed performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a portable propane grill indoors?

It is not recommended to use a portable propane grill in indoor spaces. This is because the buildup of carbon monoxide can result in poor ventilation which can lead to suffocation and choking. If left unchecked, this buildup can lead to death. In addition to this, these grills produce more heat than other kitchen appliances thereby creating a potential fire hazard.

How should you clean your portable grill?

Usually, manufacturers provide instructions and guidelines on how to clean the components of these appliances. However, most removable cooking grates and grease pans are dishwasher safe. You can use a moist towel to gently wipe off the surface of the grills.

Are portable grills any good?

Yes, these appliances are a great investment for people who like grilling food in outdoor spaces. Portable grills are fun and exciting to use and provide you with an opportunity to bond with your friends and family.

How long should a portable grill last?

A portable grill is designed to last a lifetime while ensuring that they provide you with the best performance and reliability. With proper care and attention, these appliances should last for not less than ten years. However, substandard models tend to fall apart within a few years. The secret to finding a portable grill that will last.

Conclusion

The best portable grill for camping provides you with a chance to prepare your food as you like and in line with your preferences and interests. When you are shopping for the ideal grill, it is advisable that you undertake extensive research so that you are able to identify the right model and brand. Whichever choice you make, it is necessary that you always get the best value for your hard-earned cash.

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