Elevate your outdoor cooking game on the trail, at the campsite, or during your next weekend BBQ with one of the best portable camping grills.
We put a variety of camping grills to the test, ensuring you can enjoy perfectly seared, smoky, and flavor-packed meals wherever adventure takes you. If you’re the kind of camper who prefers gourmet feasts over freeze-dried meals, this guide is for you and for the many hungry friends who will gather around these easily transportable grills.
To identify the best portable camping grills, we fired up dozens of burgers, hot dogs, vegetables, and chickens, evaluating each model’s ease of use, cooking speed, and heat distribution.
With experience as a backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, and rafting guide, I’ve mastered the art of packing and preparing food for multi-day adventures. If you’re searching for a portable grill that delivers excellent performance while keeping safety in mind, read on with National Park Shops.
Contents
- 1. Best Overall: Weber Traveler Compact Portable Gas Grill ($299)
- 2. Best Portable Grill: Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill ($264.37)
- 3. Most Convenient: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Iron Grill Cooking Bundle ($559.99)
- 4. Best Budget: Cuisinart CCG190RB 14-Inch BBQ Portable Charcoal Grill ($24.99)
- 5. Best Value: Cuisinart Grillster ($96)
- 6. Best Tabletop Grill: Weber Q 1200 ($259)
- 7. Best Lightweight: Eureka SPRK Camp Grill ($119)
- 8. Best Compact: Cuisinart Venture Gas Grill ($152.89)
- 9. Best for Experts: Coleman Portable Propane Grill ($229.97)
- How We Tested
- Conclusion
1. Best Overall: Weber Traveler Compact Portable Gas Grill ($299)
Picture this: a crisp evening in Yosemite, our team huddled around the Weber Traveler, jaws dropping as it churned out restaurant-worthy steaks with perfect grill marks. We couldn’t stop raving about how easy it was to use—this thing’s like the luxury SUV of portable grills!
What’s Under the Hood of This Best Portable Camping Grill?
- Total BTU: 13,000
- Fuel Source: Liquid Propane
- Weight: 49 lbs
- Cooking Area: 390 sq in
Why We Love This Durable Portable Camping Grill
It’s all about the details. The piezoelectric ignitor sparked up with one click—no fumbling with matches. The lid thermometer kept us in control, while the porcelain-enameled cast-iron grate made cleanup a snap (no stuck-on burger bits here!). The real game-changer? A mechanized lift assist that let us set it up one-handed—perfect when you’re juggling a beer in the other. At 390 square inches, it’s big enough to feed a hungry crew of 4-6 without breaking a sweat.
Pros and Cons of This Portable Camping Grill for Small Groups
- Pros: Top-notch searing, one-hand setup, easy to clean.
- Cons: At 49 lbs, it’s a bit of a beast to lug around; takes up some trunk space.
- Our Tip: Ideal for car campers who don’t mind lifting 50 lbs—think tailgating or basecamp vibes.
>> Related Posts: The 8 Best Portable Stoves for Camping
2. Best Portable Grill: Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill ($264.37)
- Heat/Power Source: Charcoal / wood chips
- Weight (Per Manufacturer): 32 lbs
- Measured Cooking Surface Area: 243.0 sq in
Why This Is Our Go-To Portable Camping Grill for Outdoor Cooking
Made of sleek stainless steel, this beauty maxed out our infrared thermometer—hot enough to sear anything! We loved tweaking the adjustable grate levels to get the heat just right (no burned hot dogs here). The square design kept food from rolling off, and the removable grate made tossing in more wood a cinch. Bonus: it comes with a hefty canvas carry bag with shoulder straps—our backs thanked us after that hike to camp.
Pros and Cons of This Stylish Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Doubles as a fire pit, tough build, adjustable heat.
- Cons: 32 lbs is no joke to carry; wind can mess with the open flame.
- Our Tip: Save it for calm nights and savor the slow-cook vibes—great for 3-5 people.
>> Camping related products: Top 10 Best Water Bottles for Camping
3. Most Convenient: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Iron Grill Cooking Bundle ($559.99)
Out in Grand Teton, our team turned a basic campsite into a Wild West cookout with the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0. The smokeless fire and cast-iron grill had us feeling like cowboys—minus the dust and tumbleweeds.
- Dimensions: 20.5″D x 20.5″W x 9.5″H
- Weight: 44.6 lbs
- Fuel Source: wood, charcoal, or pellet
- Cooking area: 17-inch cooking diameter
Why We Call It the Best Portable Camping Grill for Versatility
The grill hub saved our bacon—literally—by lifting the cast-iron surface just high enough to avoid scorching. Solo Stove’s airflow tech kept the fire roaring with barely any smoke, and the rugged cast iron gave us those gorgeous grill lines. It’s perfect for 2-4 folks who want a real fire-cooked meal without the fuss.
Pros and Cons of This Smokeless Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Smokeless flames, tough cast iron, multi-fuel options.
- Cons: Pricey and heavy at 44.6 lbs—bring a buddy to carry it!
- Our Tip: Use hardwood for richer flavor; hub is a must for even heat.
4. Best Budget: Cuisinart CCG190RB 14-Inch BBQ Portable Charcoal Grill ($24.99)
At a Colorado tailgate, our team couldn’t believe the Cuisinart CCG190RB—a $25 grill that delivered juicy burgers and didn’t weigh us down. It’s proof you don’t need deep pockets for great grub!
- Dimensions: 14.6 x 14 x 15 inches
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Fuel Source: Charcoal
- Cooking area: 150 square inches
Why It’s Our Favorite Budget Portable Camping Grill for Beginners
At just 2 lbs, it’s lighter than our water bottles! We tossed it in the car, fired it up with charcoal, and had perfectly grilled hot dogs in no time. It’s small but mighty—great for 1-2 campers or a quick picnic.
Pros and Cons of This Lightweight Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Dirt-cheap, featherlight, cooks evenly.
- Cons: Tiny cooking area; not for big groups.
- Our Tip: Load it with lump charcoal for better flavor.
>> Related Posts: Portable Mini Stove For Camping
5. Best Value: Cuisinart Grillster ($96)
On a rafting trip along the Snake River, our team leaned on the Cuisinart Grillster for fast, hot meals after a long day on the water. At $96, it’s a steal for the power it packs!
- Total BTU: 8000
- Heat/Power Source: Liquid propane
- Weight (Per Manufacturer): 10.0 lbs
- Measured Cooking Surface Area: 148 sq in
When it comes to the best portable camping grills, finding one that matches the power and efficiency of the Cuisinart Grillster at this size and price point is no easy feat. This compact yet powerful grill excels in fuel efficiency and reaches peak cooking temperatures within minutes of igniting its piezo lighter. Its lightweight steel lid and three insulating walls help block wind and retain heat, making it a great choice for grilling in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Plus, it cools down almost as fast as it heats up, allowing for a quick pack-up with a locking lid and storage space for a one-pound gas canister. With an easy-to-carry handle, it’s designed for ultimate portability.
The Grillster is a standout option for searing steaks and other high-heat cooking, but temperature control can be tricky. More often than not, we found ourselves sticking to the lowest gas setting unless blackened chicken or blistered peppers were on the menu. While its grilling space is compact, this petite yet sturdy grill is ideal for a picnic for two, no matter the destination.
Why It’s a Stellar Value Portable Camping Grill for Quick Cooking
It fired up in minutes with a piezo lighter, and the steel lid with three walls blocked pesky river breezes. At 10 lbs, it’s light enough to carry, and the locking lid stashed a 1-lb canister—genius for packing up fast.
Pros and Cons of This Efficient Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Lightweight, quick heat, windproof design.
- Cons: Low-temp cooking takes finesse.
- Our Tip: Keep it on low unless you’re charring—perfect for 2-3 people.
6. Best Tabletop Grill: Weber Q 1200 ($259)
During a picnic in Shenandoah, our team was hooked on the Weber Q 1200. It turned our camp table into a sizzling steak station with zero hassle.
- Total BTU: 8.500
- Heat/Power Source: Liquid propane
- Weight (Per Manufacturer): 31 lbs
- Measured Cooking Surface Area: 189 sq in
Weber has long been known for crafting high-performance, reliable grills, and that legacy extends seamlessly into one of the best portable camping grills, the Weber Q 1200. While it may not lead the pack in raw output power, its efficient design allows it to reach ideal searing temperatures within just minutes of preheating. The standout feature of this premium-quality build is the porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grate, which expertly retains and evenly distributes heat from the U-shaped stainless steel burner below. This thoughtful engineering provides exceptional precision, predictability, and control, outperforming many other models we tested.
However, while this portable camping grill powerhouse makes it easy to hit high temperatures, mastering low-and-slow cooking can be more of a challenge. It thrives in tabletop and tailgate settings, but its relatively heavy weight and bulky packed size, combined with the lack of a latching lid, make it less convenient for grilling far from the car or campsite.
Why It’s the Best Tabletop Portable Camping Grill for Precision
The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grate and U-shaped burner gave us even heat every time—steaks were a dream. It preheated fast, and Weber’s quality shone through in every bite.
Pros and Cons of This Reliable Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Consistent heat, durable, quick to start.
- Cons: 31 lbs and no latch make it less trek-friendly.
- Our Tip: Set it up near the car or table—great for 3-4 campers.
>> Related Posts: The 7 Best Camping Utensils, Tested: Ready for Any Weather
7. Best Lightweight: Eureka SPRK Camp Grill ($119)
On a backpacking trek in the Smokies, our team cheered the Eureka SPRK—at 8.8 lbs, it didn’t weigh us down, and it still grilled up a storm.
- Total BTU: 7,250
- Heat/Power Source: Butane
- Weight (Per Manufacturer): 8 lbs 8 oz
- Measured Cooking Surface Area: 148.5.0 sq in
The Eureka SPRK Camp Grill stands out as one of the best portable camping grills due to its compact design and lightweight construction. Weighing just 8.8 pounds, this 148-square-inch grill runs on butane fuel canisters, which are both lighter and more efficient than traditional propane. For added convenience, the portable camping grill comes with a briefcase-style plastic carrying case featuring two sliding locks to protect the components during transport. Setting it up is hassle-free, simply attach the butane canister, lock it into place, and ignite the flame using the auto-ignition temperature control dial. With 7,250 BTUs of power, the SPRK quickly reaches peak heat, offering enough intensity to sear meats while also providing precise temperature control for slow-cooking vegetables and poultry.
Despite its portability and convenience, this portable camping grill lacks wind resistance due to its open design and absence of a lid, making it less suitable for blustery conditions. Additionally, the ceramic-coated aluminum cooking grate may not appeal to those who prefer cast iron or stainless steel surfaces. Another minor drawback is that butane canisters are harder to find than the standard green propane canisters commonly sold at grocery stores. However, for campers prioritizing lightweight efficiency and ease of use, the Eureka SPRK Camp Grill is a top contender for outdoor cooking adventures.
Why It’s a Top Portable Camping Grill for Backpacking
The auto-ignition dial lit up fast, and 7,250 BTUs seared chicken perfectly. The briefcase case kept it secure on the trail—setup was a breeze even after a long hike.
Pros and Cons of This Compact Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Super light, efficient, easy to carry.
- Cons: Windy days are tough; butane’s harder to find.
- Our Tip: Stock up on butane—feeds 2-3 easily.
8. Best Compact: Cuisinart Venture Gas Grill ($152.89)
Hiking in Zion, our team unpacked the Cuisinart Venture—a grill that looks like a cooler but cooks like a champ. The wooden lid-turned-cutting-board had us grinning.
- Dimensions: 13 x 16.3 x 10.8 inches
- Weight: 20.6 pounds
- Cooking Area: 154 square inches
- Fuel: Propane
- Power: 9,000 BTU/hour
The Cuisinart Venture is a cleverly designed contender among the best portable camping grills, packing all the essentials for outdoor grilling into a compact, easy-to-carry bundle. Resembling a lunchbox or small beer cooler, this portable camping grill features a propane tank compartment integrated into its base, fitting neatly around the grill’s legs. Adding to its versatility, the wooden top doubles as a cutting board or serving tray, making meal prep more convenient. Weighing just 20 pounds, the Venture also boasts a comfortable carrying handle that tucks away beneath the grill when in use.
Although it offers half the cooking space and less than half the power of some other portable camping grills on this list, its 9,000-BTU burner proved capable of reaching searing temperatures in our tests. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grate retains heat well, ensuring that delicate foods like fish and steak don’t stick. However, the biggest drawback is its lack of a lid. Most portable grills rely on a dome-shaped cover to evenly redistribute heat, but without one, we noticed significant temperature variation – nearly 200 degrees from one side to the other. If you plan to cook large cuts of meat, frequent turning and repositioning will be necessary for even doneness.
Why It’s a Clever Portable Camping Grill for Convenience
The 9,000-BTU burner hit searing temps quick, and the porcelain grate kept fish flaky, not stuck. The propane nook in the base was a smart touch for packing.
Pros and Cons of This Portable Camping Grill for Travel
- Pros: Compact design, handy cutting board, solid heat.
- Cons: No lid means uneven heat—flip often!
- Our Tip: Great for 2-3; rotate food for best results.
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9. Best for Experts: Coleman Portable Propane Grill ($229.97)
Deep in the Adirondacks, our team got creative with the Coleman 225, cooking steak on one zone and fish on another—dual burners made us feel like camp chefs!
- Dimensions: 21.1 x 18.3 x 16.8 inches
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Cooking Area: 225 square inches
- Fuel: Propane
- Power: 11,000 BTU/hour
Among the best portable camping grills, the Coleman 225 stands out with one of the largest cooking surfaces available in a tabletop design. Featuring cast-iron grill grates that retain heat exceptionally well, this grill delivers beautifully seared steak and perfectly browned yet moist fish, all without sticking to the surface.
For outdoor chefs looking for versatility, the Coleman 225 offers dual heat zones, allowing you to cook two dishes at once. Unlike most portable camping grills that divide heat from left to right, this model features an inner and outer burner, each independently controlled. A removable grease pan simplifies cleanup, but what sets it apart is the option to fill the pan with water, stock, or aromatics to infuse extra flavor into food as it sears. To further expand its cooking potential, Coleman offers a separate stove grate and griddle specifically designed for this model.
Why It’s the Best Portable Camping Grill for Advanced Cooking
Inner and outer burners let us multitask, and the grease pan doubled as a flavor booster with a splash of stock. Add-on stove grates? Yes, please!
Pros and Cons of This Versatile Portable Camping Grill
- Pros: Big surface, dual zones, flavor hack.
- Cons: 30 lbs and needs skill to master.
- Our Tip: Toss herbs in the pan—feeds 4-5 with flair.
How We Tested
Each of the best portable camping grills on this list has been rigorously tested in our Lab to ensure top performance in real-world conditions. Our testers put these grills to the test by grilling and searing burgers, steaks, bratwursts, and corn, carefully evaluating their heat control, retention, and overall cooking performance.
Beyond just cooking, we assessed assembly and disassembly, mimicking how you’d set up and pack away a grill while camping. To gauge portability, our testers carried each grill around camping sites to test, evaluating weight, handle comfort, and ease of transport. Finally, we rated each portable camping grill model on features, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, ensuring you get the best performance for your outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
Finding the best portable camping grill can transform your outdoor adventures, making it easier to cook delicious meals no matter where you are.
A well-chosen portable camping grill enhances your camping, hiking, or road trip experience, allowing you to enjoy hot meals in the great outdoors. So pack your gear, fire up the grill, and make every adventure a feast to remember!
