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Top 10 Best Camping Grills: Comparison Chart
Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
Weber 8500 BTU Liquid Propane Grill
Weber 14-Inch Portable Grill
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill
Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
Weber 8500 BTU Liquid Propane Grill
Weber 14-Inch Portable Grill
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Beau Jardin 18 inch Portable Charcoal Grill
Char-Broil Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Weber Liquid Propane Grill
Coleman 2 Burner Grill Stove Combo
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Beau Jardin 18 inch Portable Charcoal Grill
Char-Broil Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Weber Liquid Propane Grill
Coleman 2 Burner Grill Stove Combo
Sale
Best Small Gas Grill: Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Gas Grill Review
The Cuisinart is the perfect solution to grilling on outdoor table tops. Out of all on our list, it’s the most stable and is ideal for picnics or camping grounds. The legs can fold underneath the unit to help prevent the bulkiness when transporting it.
Additionally, the unit also includes a decent BTU rating. However, the 145 square inch surface is pretty small compared to others on the market. If you’re looking to cook a quick meal, you’ll need to crank up the heat.
The dense material used also helps prevent the unit from getting dented or damaged. Would we recommend this for camping? Yes. It provides solid construction that’s both easy to transport and produces enough food for four people.
Overall, if you’re looking for a good item that provides decent capabilities, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, a lightweight and portable camping design makes it perfect for camping.
Why We Like It
- Lightweight
- Best portable grill for camping
- Adjustable legs
- Medium cooking surface
- Easy to use
Sale
Best Portable Propane Camping Grill: Weber 8500 BTU Liquid Propane Grill Review
If you’re looking for a small unit for either one or two people, then the Weber won’t disappoint. It features a 189 sq inch cooking surface that’s portable and easy to use. The unit can easily be transported and doesn’t take up much storage space.
It’s also lightweight and made from decent materials. The heating element does tend to be a bit lower than others on the market, but the overall cooking capacity is good. Plus, the small propane camping grill comes at an affordable price.
Would we recommend this to campers? While we feel like it’s a good pick, we would recommend it due to the one-touch ignition. It’s easy to control the burners, and it makes it easy to use. When camping, you want something that can quickly start without much hassle. A camping flat top grill should do the trick.
Overall, we’d highly recommend this tiny item to anyone wanting a compact camping unit. It features a steady base and is effective at cooking a wide range of foods.
Why We Like It
- High BTU
- Medium cooking space
- Quick-starting
- Hassle-free
- Lightweight
- Compact
Sale
Best Portable Gas Grills For Camping: Coleman Fold N Go Grill Review
The Coleman is an extremely compact camping grill that is perfect for one to two people. It’s suitable for single meals or a main dish. The unit itself is reliable and is one of the smallest yet efficient products on our list.
Transportation is easy due to the mini camping grill fold-up design. The unit can deliver 6,000 BTU and offers 105 sq inches of cooking space. Aside from that, the adjustable burner makes it ideal for camping. The ignition has InstaStart and features a removable dishwasher safe surface.
Overall, we think this is an excellent choice for people limited on space. Plus, the exterior of this small camping gas grill is durable and easy to clean.
Why We Like It
- Durable
- High-quality materials
- Compact design
- Instant startup
- Folding camping grill
Best Small Camping Grill: Weber 14-Inch Portable Grill Review
This unit is one of the top-tier outdoor camping grills that mimics a real BBQ grill. It features a simplistic design that adds that traditional smokey flavor to your foods. The materials are top-notch and durable. Plus, the unit provides up to 204 sq inches of cooking space.
What we like about this is that it also is suitable for pumping out a decent amount of food quickly. The ceramic coating provides an excellent nonstick and prevents the unit from wearing down quickly. We also find that the tripod-like legs are very supportive and stable.
Overall, we believe that this grill is perfect for the traditional outdoor style grill. It also perfectly mimics the smokey flavor you’d get with an ordinary charcoal grill.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Retains high heat
- Medium cooking surface
Cons
Sale
Best Camping Barbecue Grill: Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill Review
If the last item wasn’t big enough for you, then the Weber Jumbo Joe is a better pick. It provides the same excellent charcoal taste but with enough space to make eight burgers. The compact and lightweight design is perfect for on the go tasks and works in most weather.
As for the durability, it’s porcelain-enameled and efficiently retains high temperatures. The coating also prevents it from rusting and keeps the exterior from peeling. Additionally, the lid locks and can be used as a lid holder. Lastly, it features impeccable temperature control using side dampeners.
Overall, this is the perfect compact large unit for camping. It gives that classic BBQ taste and allows you full control over the temperature.
Pros
- Large cooking surface
- Compact design
- Can hold high temperatures
- Classic charcoal taste
- Enhanced temperature control
Cons
Best Camping Charcoal Grill: Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill Review
The Weber is perfect for RV camping grills on the go. It features a unique square shape and can hold up to six burgers at a time. The best camping charcoal grill compact design allows you to transport it easily, and it gives that classic charcoal taste.
Unlike others, this unit has a superior porcelain-enameled lid and helps retain heat. For transportation, the lid locks and includes dampers for enhanced temperature control. Lastly, the durable plated steel cooking grates are easy to clean and prevents sticking.
Overall, we enjoy this model, and it’s good for its durability and price. However, the handles do get hot and are only recommended if you don’t need to transport it while using it.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Good temperature control
Cons
Best Camping BBQ Grill: Beau Jardin 18 inch Portable Charcoal Grill Review
If you’re looking for a large unit that can also BBQ and smokes your food, then you’re going to love this model. It includes an upgraded portable design with safe to touch handles and wheels. The outside is perfectly durable and features a rust-resistant aluminum coating.
Aside from that, it’s easy to clean and includes a one-touch cleaning system. All you’ll need to do is rotate the catcher and dispose of the burned charcoal. The unit is also easy to assemble and perfect for making your favorite meals.
Overall, this unit is perfect for those needing a larger grill. Plus, the additional features enable you to BBQ and smoke your food.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Quick assembly
- Easy to clean
- Durable
Cons
- May miss screws when shipped
Sale
Best Electric Camping Grill: Char-Broil Portable TRU-Infrared Liquid Propane Gas Grill Review
We always try and provide one highly-durable model on our list. The Char-Broil is built to last and can withstand constant use. This stainless steel camping grill includes a cast-aluminum firebox and comes with a lid. The exterior is stainless steel camping grill and allows you to move it quickly.
Aside from that, it includes a high-impact frame that prevents dents and other forms of damage. The legs and handles are also reinforced, ensuring that they won’t fall off. Additionally, cooking is simplistic and includes a non-flare design with unique TRU-infrared cooking experience.
If you’re worried about the cooking space, this unit comes with plenty of cooking surface. In total, you can use up to 200 sq inches of space. The unit also includes stainless steel grates, which are easy to clean and maximizes heating.
Overall, this unit is perfect for those looking for high durability. However, it’s only mediocre in terms of cooking and consistent heat.
Pros
- Easy to transport
- High-impact design
- Nonstick feature
- Easy to clean
- Large cooking area
Cons
Best Table top Camping Grill: Weber Liquid Propane Grill Review
Sometimes you just need a little extra space when you’re cooking a fancy meal. This item comes equipped with two additional trays to help hold your food. The unit includes stainless steel grates and can produce up to 8,500 BTU per hour. Aside from that, the unit contains 189 sq inches of cooking area.
If you’re worried about durability, this unit comes porcelain-enameled with cast iron camping grill. This helps prevent overheating and regulates temperature. The thermometer also allows you to keep an eye on the temperature. Lastly, the unit runs on liquid propane, which is beginner-friendly and easy to use.
Overall, the Weber provides plenty of extra cooking space. However, it’s only recommended for light use.
Pros
- Medium cooking surface
- High heat
- Enhanced durability
- Easy to clean
- Easy to assemble
Cons
Best Camping Grill Stove Combo: Coleman 2 Burner Grill Stove Combo Review
The last on our list is the Coleman 2-Burner. It features a unique two in one design that can be used as a stove and as a grill. It includes a wind block, which makes it perfect to use outdoors - rain or shine.
With enhanced technology, the unit provides consistent performance and excellent temperature control. The PerfectHeat system also works to preserve fuel, which can save in the long run.
As for cooking capacity, it includes a small part of 120 sq inches. Plus, a total of 20,000 BTU capacity. The small stovetop area can fit a 10-inch pan and is excellent for making more than just your general BBQ.
If you’re looking to make more than just your generic BBQ, we highly recommend this item.
Pros
- Works in all weather conditions
- High cooking power
- Dual stovetop design
- Even cooking
Cons
Buyer’s Guide: All You Need to Know About the Best Camping Grill
There are so many options when it comes to the best products that it can be frustrating to sort through them. With so many options, that also means that there are so many different features to look out for.
Buying considerations for the small charcoal grills for camping need to be thought of heavily before you purchase a model. Here are the top features you should always consider when buying the best product.
Benefits
Each unit will have different advantages and uses. It’s imperative that you understand the various features that they offer. Some units include features that make it easier to use. These may include:
- Extra side tables
- Wind guards
- Cool to touch lids
- Wheels for portability
How Big of a Grill Do I Need?
For most buyers, they will only need a unit that’s suitable for four people. However, the size will depend on how many people you’ll be feeding and how fast you want the food to be produced. Generally, anything with 200 square inches of cooking space should suffice. Although the best grill for RV camping is around 100 sq inches.
Is There a Difference Between Camping Grill and Camping Stove?
Yes, it is used to ‘grill’ food rather than cook it on a frying pan. You’ll get the smokey flavor that camping barbeque grills usually give. A camping stove is similar to a burner or one that your home may have. However, you may still find pellet grills as well.
Is it Legal to Grill on a Balcony?
Many apartments have strict guidelines on whether or not you can grill on your balcony. For the most part, most apartments ban the use on the balcony due to the risk of fires and smoke. Although the apartments mainly don’t want to be liable if the grill causes any issues with your apartment or others.
Camping grills can be dangerous, primarily, if used and not supervised. They can end up sparking and catching fire to other people’s possessions. Many people also store their belongings on their balcony or have clothing. These can easily catch fire if there is wind. While it’s not illegal, most places won’t allow you to.
How to Choose the Best Camping Grill
As buyers, we want to ensure that the money we are investing in goes to a good working product. It’s no different for the best camping grills. They come in many different shapes and sizes, which is why it can be challenging to choose one out of the many available. In this section, we want to give you a detailed overview of how you can pick one;
Weight
Depending on the size, it can vary in weight. What we’ve found after researching a bunch of the best camping grill 2023 has to offer is that many of them float around the 10-15 lbs. However, some of them can clock in at more than 20+ pounds.
BTU
BTU is the ‘British Thermal Unit’ and describes the amount of heat the unit produces. The energy needed to raise one pound of water is one Fahrenheit. When it comes to reading the BTU, it’s not too crucial for you to consider this number. It is mainly just used to gauge how much energy and how hot the unit will get.
Cooking Surface
The cooking surface is going to determine how much area you have to cook. For such products, this is denounced by square inches. The higher the square inches of cooking space, the more food you’ll be able to fit on the unit. As we’ve stated earlier, the ideal size for four people is 200 square inches. However, you can easily get ones lower or higher, depending on your needs.
Temperature Gauge
Temperature gauges work to help you monitor the surface’s temperature. Gas, propane, or electric grills all function at different heats. If it doesn’t have a method to control the temperature, the next best thing is going to be the temperature gauge.
These are going to be hit or miss depending on the brand. The temperature gauge will give you an idea of how hot the grill is and allows you to monitor the food. Although you won’t need to do this for smaller batches of food. The gauge comes in handy when you’re cooking meat that tends to take longer.
Shelves
Shelving units can come in handy when you’re using multiple utensils and foods. They can keep your food in a hands reach without you having to bring an extra table or storage space. Shelves are usually located on the bottom of the camping grill and can be used to store coal, propane tanks, or additional foods.
Portability
Small-sized units are going to be more portable than bigger ones. Any good camper knows that you’re going to need an excellent portable grill. Otherwise, you’re just setting yourself up for failure. Remember, portable camping grills need to be loaded into your car and also stored when not in use. If you’re not paying attention, you could end up getting one that’s too big for the space.
Ignition Button
To make a camping grill more convenient and less of a hassle, modern ones include an ignition button. These quick buttons allow no-flame use and can turn them on in an instant. These are generally sought after, and you’ll find them to make the whole experience more manageable than trying to fiddle around with other lighting methods.
Ease of Cleaning
Nonstick surfaces are always better when it comes to cleanup. No one likes scrubbing a bunch of gunk that’s been left after grilling. Any unit with an additional grill top or plates can help make it easier to clean. You’ll be able to take the top off and wash it in the sink or outdoors. Plus, you’ll be able to soak the grill if there’s some residue leftover.
Versatility
A unit that you can use either on a camping ground or in your backyard is always preferred. You’ll get more out of it if you can use it in multiple areas. Plus, rangetops are always better for best small gas grill. These versions allow you to cook a large amount of food other than just meat and vegetables.
Price
Since camping units are smaller than your traditional backyard ones, they cost less. The average cost of most gas products is anywhere from $50-150. You shouldn’t pay anything more than that unless the gas grill has a specific feature you like.
Best Camping Grill Types
Now that we’ve covered the best camping grill buying features, it’s time to talk about the different types. In general, there are three types. Here’s a brief rundown of the three different types you’ll find on today’s modern market;
Gas
They are powered through propane and function similarly to a gas stovetop. These are generally convenient, but you’ll need to know how to hook up a gas tank. Plus, the propane tanks aren’t as cost-efficient as other models. However, the best natural gas grills are affordable and cost-efficient as well.
Electric
The best electric grill can be better to cook in, but the problem is that many of these need to be plugged in. Unless you’re heading to a camping ground with outdoor outlets or have a portable energy source, you’re not going to be able to use it. We do enjoy the controlled temperature on the electric stoves because they are less likely to burn or overcook your food.
Charcoal
The last type is the best charcoal grills, and it’s the generic type. To power this one, you’ll need to use coal. These are good if you want to enhance the flavor of your food. However, we find that charcoal isn’t beginner-friendly and provides you less of controlled temperature.
Verdict and Our Recommendation for 2023
As you can see, there are numerous products out there. Each one is very different from the next, which can cause shopping for one to seem chaotic. However, as long as you pay attention to what type of cooking style and conditions you’ll need, it shouldn’t be too hard.
We find that paying attention to our buying guide can help you avoid any issues. Our guide highlights the different features you should find in the modern camping grills. Additionally, we give you detailed and researched information that you may not find anywhere else.
Out of all on our mykitchenadvisor list, the best camping grill 2023 has to offer is the Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Gas Grill. It includes a stable element that is easily portable and safe to use. The unit is beginner-friendly and can support a large amount of food.
Additionally, the unit also includes a decent BTU rating. However, the 145 grill surface is pretty small compared to others on the market. If you’re looking to cook a quick meal, you’ll need to crank up the heat.
Let us know if we missed anything or feel free to leave a comment down below.