Camping is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the world. It is be a great way to connect with the outdoors, escape from civilization and enjoy nature in your own way. Camping is also a great opportunity to bond with family and friends.
There’s no doubt that camping is incomplete without a grill. Grilling with friends and family under the stars can be an excellent experience for anyone. If you love camping or want to start doing it more often, you might want to invest in a portable grill for your next adventure. Portable propane barbecue grills are great for camping, caravanning, and tailgating.
With so many options available on the market, choosing the best grill can seem overwhelming. To make things easier for yourself, let’s look at my buying guide on camping grills! Also, In this very article we will focus on 5 small portable propane BBQ grills. So, let’s get started! For you folks that want to jump directly to my 5 suggested products, you can do so by clicking HERE!
Buying Guide for the Best Portable Propane Barbecue Grills
Grilling while camping is an integral part of the outdoor experience. The tantalizing aroma of a sizzling steak in front of your tent, the flavors mingling in your mouth over a crackling fire—nothing quite compares to it. However, not all grills are created equal. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the perfect grill for your camping trips, and we’re here to guide you through them.
1. Fuel Type: Choosing the Right Fit
When it comes to camping grills, you have various options for fuel types. Selecting the most suitable fuel type is a crucial decision in finding the perfect camping grill for you.
Charcoal Grills: Considered a classic choice for outdoor cooking adventures, charcoal grills require less maintenance and are easily portable. However, keep in mind that they take around 20 minutes for the coals to reach cooking temperature, so planning ahead is essential.
Propane Grills: Operating on liquid propane gas, propane grills are simpler to use than charcoal grills. They do require more maintenance, as you’ll need to refill the propane tank regularly. The advantage of propane grills is their quick heat-up time (approximately 5 minutes), allowing you to start cooking promptly.
2. Temperature Control & Ignition: Achieving the Perfect Cook
Temperature control is a vital feature of your grill, as it ensures you can cook your food to perfection—whether it’s meat or veggies, getting the temperature right can make or break your meal.
Ignition: Consider how you plan to light your grill. Do you prefer matches and lighters, or would you rather have an ignition system built into the grill itself? Ensure that your grill has the ignition system that aligns with your preferences.
3. Grate Size and Portability: Convenient Cooking on the Go
When camping and grilling, three critical factors to consider are grate size, portability, and durability.
Grate Size: It’s important to choose a grill with a grate size that accommodates your food, both in terms of size and quantity. There’s nothing more frustrating than struggling to fit your food on the grill, only to have it squished together, making it harder to cook.
Portability: While camping, hauling a large barbecue can be inconvenient. Look for a compact and easily portable grill that won’t weigh you down while you explore the great outdoors.
Durability: Camping grills need to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Look for grills made from durable materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron, that can withstand high temperatures and resist rust and corrosion.
4. Convenient Setup, Drip Tray, and Shelves: Simplify Your Camping Cooking Experience
What good is a camping grill if it takes ages to set up at your campsite? Opt for a grill that fits easily in your car, is lightweight enough to carry, and boasts a straightforward setup process that doesn’t require tools or extensive reading of manuals.
A drip tray is another essential consideration. After cooking up some delicious steaks over the fire, you wouldn’t want to spend excessive time scraping away charred remains. An ideal camping grill should feature a drip tray that collects all the burnt scraps, allowing for easy cleaning after cooking.
Furthermore, a well-designed camping grill should have shelves and partitions, facilitating food preparation and serving areas to be conveniently located together. This efficient use of space is particularly valuable when you’re out in the wilderness.
5. Adjustable Legs, Versatility, and Warranty: Cooking on Uneven Terrain
Adjustable legs are a must-have feature for portable camping grills. They enable you to cook at an angle on uneven terrain, especially if you’re using a gas grill with a U-shaped burner. Uneven ground can result in uneven cooking and a subpar grilling experience. Additionally, adjustable legs make it easier to remove the grill from your car, particularly when you’ve filled the back compartment with camping supplies.
Versatility is another key aspect to look for in a portable grill. It should allow you to switch effortlessly between different fuel sources. A grill that accommodates both propane and charcoal, with removable heat shields and extra-large vents, ensures you can burn charcoal without worrying about smoke blowing back into your face.
Warranty: Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A reliable warranty provides peace of mind and indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality and durability of their product.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect portable propane barbecue grill for your camping adventures. Happy grilling!
My 5 Suggested Best Small Portable Propane BBQ Grills
1. Cuisinart CGG-180T Propane BBQ Grill
Get ready to add some sizzle to your next outdoor getaway with the Cuisinart CGG-180T. This portable, lightweight, and easy to carry grill is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, caravanning, picnics, tailgating and parties. With foldable legs for easy storage, this grill comes with a temperature control system that makes it efficient and easy to use.
The grill is compact and extremely powerful thanks to the 145 square inch cooking space and 5,500 BTU burner. The burner is made from stainless steel which means it’s durable enough to last years of heavy use. It operates on propane gas which means you don’t have to worry about heating the grill first before cooking. Just set on the flame and you are ready to go!
Furthermore, this grill is perfect for grilling meat because it offers an even cook all over the surface area without any hot or cold spots. The grill comes with a lid that is made from cast aluminium material which means it can withstand high temperatures without being damaged.
Pros
- Portable, lightweight, and easy to carry
- Comes with foldable legs which makes it convenient for transportation
- Incredibly powerful with a 5,500 BTU rating
- Grills evenly and efficiently
- Best for camping, caravanning, picnics, and tailgating
- Comes with temperature control and is extremely easy to clean.
Cons
- The lid latch can be a bit finicky at times!
FAQ
1. Can you replace the burner element in this grill?
Unfortunately, no! The burner element of this grill is not replaceable, and you cannot find a replacement element anywhere.
2. How can you clean this Cuisinart grill?
You can use hot soapy water and clean with a sponge. Alternatively, you can even put this grill in a dishwasher.
3. Can you cook with the lid down?
Yes! You can cook burgers, steaks, and even other meals with the lid down.
4. Do you get a Warranty with this product?
Yes! You will get a 3 year limited warranty on defected parts.
5. Does the Cuisinart CGG 180T come with an adapter hose?
Yes! It can accommodate a 16oz propane cylinder. However, it can’t accommodate a 20lb propane tank!
Conclusion
The Cuisinart CGG-180T portable propane gas grill is a great tool for campers, tailgaters, picnickers, and BBQ lovers. There are plenty of reason this particular model is one of the most popular choices in its category. First of all, it’s incredibly efficient and powerful which makes it ideal for preparing meals for a group of people.
Second, it comes with foldable legs, which makes transportation easier. Third, it’s very compact in size so you can easily find somewhere to store it. The fact that it can run on a 16.4 oz propane cylinder is also a huge plus – no more hassles with propane tanks! Moreover, all in all this grill is very easy to use and clean up!
2. Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This is the perfect grill for people on-the-go. The Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is a compact, lightweight, and portable grill that can produce extremely powerful heat ratings of up to 9,500 BTUs and searing temperatures of 677 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature gauge is built right on the lid, so you don’t have to spend time digging around for it.
With a total weight of 16 pounds and an easy-to-carry design, this grill is easy to take with you wherever you go. Whether you’re planning a barbecue at the park or just want to enjoy some grilled burgers after your kid’s soccer game, this grill offers plenty of cooking space with its 225 square inch grilling area.
The Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill is not only convenient and powerful, but it’s also incredibly durable. Every part of this grill is replaceable which means it will last for years.
Pros
- Extremely powerful with a 9,500 BTU rating
- Can reach searing hot temperatures of up to 677 degree Fahrenheit
- Comes with in-built temperature gauge
- Weighs only 16 pounds so is extremely convenient to carry
- Has ample space for 3-4 servings of meat with a 225 square inch grill space
- Each and every part of the grill is replaceable
Cons
- The regulator could be slightly improved!
FAQ
1. What is the grill body made of?
The body of the grill is made of heavily durable cast-iron. Also, the grill racks are plated with steel!
2. Why is the regulator of the grill feeling loose?
The regulator of the grill is made in such a way that it rotates and then locks into place.
3. Can you control the temperature on this grill?
Yes! The grill comes with a built in knob/dial which allows you to control the grill temperature.
4. Do you get a Warranty with this product?
The grill does come with a manufacturer warranty. However, you have to request for one when you purchase the grill from Amazon.
5. Can you use pots and pans on this grill?
Yes! You can use this grill as a stove. So, you can conveniently use pots and pans on this grill.
Conclusion
It is the best grill that you can rely on for all your cookout needs. It will be a worthy addition to your backyard accessory line up and make sure that you end up with a char grilled meal each time you fire it up. The grill is designed for small as well as large gatherings and even though it weighs only 16 pounds, it carries enough fuel to keep you grilling for hours without running out of gas.
The grill has an easily accessible leak free propane tank, so you do not have to worry about refuelling in the middle of a party. All these features have made this one, the top portable grills on the market today.
3. Weber Traveller Portable Gas Grill
Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill is the best portable grill on the market. Why? Because it’s easy to set up and collapse, and because it comes equipped with a cart for easy manoeuvrability. The grill folds up completely, and then you can wheel it around like a suitcase. When you get to your destination, all you have to do is unfold the grill (it opens in one quick motion) and connect the propane tank. Once that’s done, you’re ready to grill!
And there’s plenty of room for grilling, this guy has a capacity of grilling up to 15 burgers at once! It’s also smartly engineered for performance: you can use less gas and get more heat, so you’re not wasting gas and your food cooks faster. It comes with a 16 oz gas canister so you don’t need to buy anything extra, but if you have access to larger gas tanks, the Traveler can be hooked up to those too (with an adapter hose sold separately).
Pros
- Easy setup and collapse
- Grill is attached to cart for easy manoeuvrability
- Folds up completely
- Large grilling area with a capacity of grilling up to 15 burgers at once
- Smartly engineered to reduce gas usage
- Comes with a 16 oz gas canister (you can even connect to large gas canisters with adapter hose which is sold separately)
Cons
- The grill weighs a bit on the heavier side!
FAQ
1. Does this Grill work with Butane Gas?
No! This grill works only with propane gas and propane accessories.
2. What are the Specific measurements of the Grill when folded down?
In folded condition, the grill measures 44 inches in length, 26 inches in width and 15 inches in height.
3. Do you need to assemble the grill?
No! The only portion you need to assemble are the axle and the wheels. Also, you don’t require any separate tools for this.
4. Can we use Pots and Pans on this grill?
Yes! You can use this grill as a stove with pots and pans.
5. Is there any Warranty Available?
No! As far as Amazon is concerned, there is no mention of any warranty on this grill! (So, ask when buying)
Conclusion
The Weber grill is one of the best portable gas grills that you can find on the market. This is a substantial grill that will allow you to prepare your food to perfection. The fact that it folds up completely and can be transported easily makes it even better.
It comes with a 16 oz gas canister as well, which gives you the option to buy a larger one if you need to do so. This is one of the best portable grills if you are looking for something that is simple, compact, but sturdy and powerful enough to cook your food well.
4. Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Portable Grill
If you’re looking for a grill that can do it all and still be portable enough to carry around, then the Pit Boss 75275 Stainless Steel is the perfect fit for you. This grill comes with a massive 10,000 BTU rating and two burners, making it the perfect option for grilling and searing.
The Pit Boss 75275 Stainless Steel comes with folding legs and a latching hood which makes it extremely portable. It weighs only 27 pounds and can be easily carried around. The best part is that this grill also comes with an in-built ignition system which means you won’t have to worry about carrying matches or a lighter with you.
This grill is made from 430 stainless steel body and 304 stainless steel grid which makes it very durable and long lasting. The grill also has a large cooking space of 200 square inches which allows you to cook food for your entire family at once.
Pros
- Extremely durable with a 430 stainless steel body and a 304 stainless steel grid
- Comes with a massive 10,000 BTU rating and two burners (each burner rates 10,000 BTU)
- Delivers perfect amount of heat for grilling and searing
- Comes with folding legs and a latching hood which makes it extremely portable
- Has in-built turn ignition
Cons
- Since it weighs around 27 pounds, it is bit on the heavier side (at least when compared to other grills of the same price range!
FAQ
1. Can you fit 1lb propane canisters to this camping grill?
Actually, this Pit Boss Grill is designed for 20lb capacity propane cylinders. However, you can purchase certain hose adaptors to fit in 1lb propane canisters.
2. Can you get a cover for this grill?
Well, the company does not make any official cover or carry case for this grill. However, you may find some 3rd party covers on Amazon.
3. What is the maximum temperature that this grill can reach?
This grill is capable of reaching up to 700 degree Fahrenheit. However, if the ambient temperature is hot, it can even reach higher temperatures.
4. Do you get a Warranty with this product?
The grill does come with a manufacturer warranty. However, you have to request for one when you purchase the grill from Amazon.
5. What is the total BTU rating of this grill?
This grill has a massive BTU rating of 20,000 (10,000 for each burner).
Conclusion
All in all, Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Portable Grill is definitely a great grill to consider. It has enough space to cook for a large family or gathering, yet it is extremely portable and has no problems with leaving a mess.
With its two burners and 10,000 BTU rating, this grill is guaranteed to provide you with enough grilling and searing power to get the job done without having to worry about food drying up on the grill. It’s hard to go wrong for that price as well.
5. Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
Looking for a high-quality tabletop propane gas grill? Look no further! The Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is an amazing option for easy, convenient cooking. The grill features a deep lid to allow for professional style cooking of larger meat chunks and thick steaks, and it has a large cooking area of 207 square inches.
The entire unit is made out of extremely durable and rugged stainless steel, and it contains 2 main burners with a total heat rating of 15,000 BTU. It also contains a built-in centre mounted thermometer to make sure you’re always monitoring your temperatures accurately so as not to ruin your food.
Finally, the grill comes pre-installed with a 40-inch hose to accommodate 20lb propane cylinders. Are you ready to take your cooking game to the next level and start grilling like a pro? You can with the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill!
Pros
- Deep lid helps in professional cooking of larger meat chunks and thick steaks
- Large cooking area of 207 square inches
- Entire made of extremely durable and rugged stainless steel
- Contains 2 main burners with a total heat rating of 15,000 BTU
- Built-in centre mounted thermometer for accurate temperature monitoring
- Comes pre-installed with a 40-inch hose to accommodate 20lb propane cylinders
Cons
- Despite of the massive size of the grill, the cooking area is a bit small.
FAQ
1. What is the total rating of the Grill?
The total rating of the grill is 15,000 BTU. This means that you will get a heat rating of 7,500 BTU per burner.
2. Can we use this Grill as an Oven?
Yes! You can use this grill as an over. But make sure to pre-heat it to get the best results.
3. Can you grill on this Monument Grill with the lid closed?
Yes! You can cook with the lid closed, however, make sure that you set the temperature to a minimum (ideally 250-300 degrees).
4. Do you get a Warranty with this product?
The grill does come with a manufacturer warranty. However, you have to request for one when you purchase the grill from Amazon.
5. How much does the Grill Weigh?
The grill weighs approximately 20lb (without the propane cylinder).
Conclusion
This grill is the perfect choice for people who don’t have much of a space to set up their grilling equipment. This tabletop grill, as the name suggests, can be placed on smooth surfaces, and doesn’t take up too much space.
The grill is also perfect for people who find it hard to transfer food from grills, charcoal, or open flames and into the kitchen. All in all, this tabletop grill does its job perfectly without taking away any of that all-important flavour.
BBQ Safety Tips:
Barbecues are a great way to enjoy outdoor cooking and gather with friends and family. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant experience. Here are a few essential BBQ safety tips to keep in mind:
1. Location and Setup:
- Choose a well-ventilated outdoor area for your barbecue, away from any structures, trees, or flammable materials.
- Ensure the grill is on a stable, flat surface to prevent tipping or accidental fires.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the barbecue to avoid burns or injuries.
2. Propane and Charcoal Grills:
- For propane grills, always check the gas cylinder for leaks before using. Apply a soapy water solution to the connections, and if you see bubbles, there is a leak. In such cases, tighten the connections or have a professional inspect the grill.
- When using charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluid specifically designed for barbecues. Avoid using gasoline or other flammable liquids, as they can cause dangerous flare-ups.
- Allow the coals to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container designated for ash disposal.
3. Fire Safety:
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure it is in good working condition.
- Never leave the grill unattended while it’s in use, as this increases the risk of accidents.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing that may accidentally catch fire. Opt for tighter-fitting garments or aprons to reduce this risk.
4. Food Handling and Preparation:
- Practice proper food safety by washing your hands thoroughly before handling food and using separate utensils for raw and cooked meats.
- Ensure that meat is cooked thoroughly to eliminate harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check for safe internal temperatures.
- Avoid cross-contamination by using different plates and utensils for cooked and raw food.
5. Electrical Safety (for electric grills):
- Only use electric grills in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines.
- Make sure the grill’s power cord is in good condition, without any frays or damage.
- Keep the grill and its power cord away from water sources to prevent electrical shocks.
6. Clean-up:
- Allow the grill to cool down completely before cleaning it.
- Remove grease and residue from the grill’s surfaces regularly to prevent flare-ups.
- Dispose of coals and ash safely, ensuring they are completely extinguished.
Remember, following these safety tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable BBQ experience for everyone involved. Stay vigilant and prioritize safety to create lasting memories without any accidents.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
The Bottom Line
Camping grills offer a unique way to adapt to life on the road and can be used for multiple purposes depending on your needs. For example, if you are a family or a group of friends and your vehicle is loaded with food, you may need a larger grill that can accommodate multiple pieces of food at once.
If you are backpacking or planning to cook for only one or two persons, you may want a smaller grill that can easily be packed up and carried in your backpack.
The camping grills that we have chosen in this buying guide are the best and most popular ones. So, don’t hesitate in buying any of these as all of them have gotten quality reviews and have passed the test several times! Thanks for reading, if you think I forgot something or if you simply want to share a story or some advice, feel free to leave a comment below, be safe and have fun everyone.!