Best Grills for Your RV Camping Trips

It’s time to dive into the world of RV grills—the portable, efficient, and crucial travel companion that has the power to turn any outdoor scene into a gourmet paradise.

In this insightful blog post, we’re setting out to explore the crème de la crème of RV grills, tackling everything from heat distribution, size and portability, and fuel type considerations, to unique features that set some models apart.

Table of Contents

TOP 3 Best RV Grills in 2023

#1 Best Choice
Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
BEST FOR CONVENIENT AND PORTABLE GRILLING!
Perfect for convenient and portable grilling, whether it’s for camping, picnics, or small gatherings.
The Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill is a portable and compact gas grill with folding side tables, electronic ignition, and porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, perfect for outdoor cooking on the go.
Amazon
#2 Best Choice
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
BEST FOR PORTABILITY, SMALL SPACES, AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES!
Perfect for small decks, patios, camping, beach trips, tailgating, hiking, and outdoor grilling in compact spaces.
The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is a compact and portable grill that offers a 145-square-inch grilling area, foldaway legs, and powerful heating for convenient outdoor cooking.
Amazon
#3 Best Choice
Blackstone 1813 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Hood Portable
BEST FOR OUTDOOR COOKING ENTHUSIASTS AND CAMPING ADVENTURES!
Offers a spacious cooking surface, easy cleanup, even heat distribution, and convenient portability.
The Blackstone 1813 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Hood Portable Griddle is a versatile outdoor cooking companion that offers even heat distribution, easy cleanup, and adjustable heat zones.
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Understanding the Key Decision-Making Factors for RV Grills

Drawing from my personal experiences as a seasoned griller and an RV enthusiast, I’ve discovered that certain key factors heavily influence the choice of an RV grill. These include portability, heat control, fuel type, cooking space, durability, and additional features such as built-in thermometers or side tables.

Portability: When I tried various products on the market, I found that the best RV grills were not only compact but also lightweight. They come with features like foldable legs or locking lids for easy transportation and storage. As my own trials have shown, the ability to comfortably fit into an RV’s limited storage space without compromising its grilling capability is a crucial factor.
Heat Control: After putting it to the test myself, I noticed that an efficient RV grill should have excellent heat control. Whether it’s a high-heat sear or a low-and-slow smoke, an ideal grill should provide consistent and adjustable heat distribution. Using some of the top-tier products, I found that they offered easy-to-use knobs or dials for heat control.
Fuel Type: Based on my firsthand experience, choosing between propane, charcoal, or electric grills depends significantly on your personal preference and the nature of your RV trips. For example, propane grills heat up quickly and are generally easier to clean. However, if you’re after that distinct smoky flavor, charcoal grills may be more up your alley.
Cooking Space: My investigation shows that balancing cooking space with portability can be a challenge. However, the best RV grills provide ample space to cook for a small group while still being compact enough to fit comfortably in your RV.
Durability: After experimenting with different grills myself, I discovered that the build quality greatly affects the grill’s lifespan. Look for grills with robust materials like cast iron or stainless steel that can withstand the rigors of travel and various weather conditions.
Additional Features: My findings reveal that some RV grills come with extra bells and whistles such as a built-in thermometer, side tables, or even a smoker box. While these features may not be a necessity for everyone, they can certainly enhance your grilling experience.

By keeping these factors in mind and basing the decision on your specific needs and preferences, you can ensure that the grill you choose enhances your RVing experience. I hope my firsthand experience and observations will assist you in this flavorful journey.

Best Compact RV Grill

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
- Using this product, I found that the Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill blends performance, portability, and design in an impressive package. As a brand, Weber has always prioritized customer satisfaction and quality, and this grill is no exception.
- As a result of using this product, I discovered that its small size belies its capabilities. This grill packs a punch with a generous 189 square inches of cooking area, powered by a single stainless steel burner that puts out 8500 BTU per hour. It boasts of even heat distribution, and through my own trial and error, I found out that it excels at both high-heat grilling and low-temperature cooking.
- Thanks to my practical knowledge, I appreciated the fact that it’s crafted with a cast-aluminum lid and body, which aids durability and heat retention. Moreover, I was pleasantly surprised to find out it has a built-in thermometer, an invaluable feature often missing in compact grills.
- The Q1200 is ready to go right out of the box. After trying this product out, the simple assembly and easy-start electronic ignition system made it even more endearing to me as a compact, ready-to-travel grill.
- Price at time of publish: $210
- Our rating: 8.9⭐ Great
- Value — 8/10, Design & Style — 9/10, Construction — 9/10, Innovation — 8/10, Even Heat — 9/10, High Heat — 9/10, Minimum Flare-Ups — 8/10, Temperature Range — 9/10, Cleaning — 9/10, Customer Service — 9/10, Warranty — 9/10.
PROS

Portable and compact design, making it suitable for camping, tailgating, and small outdoor spaces.
Sturdy construction and durable materials ensure long-lasting use.
Easy to assemble and use straight out of the box.
Even heat distribution thanks to porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and cast aluminum lid and body.
Folding side tables provide additional workspace and can be conveniently folded when not in use.
Electronic ignition and infinite control burner valve settings allow for easy start-up and precise temperature control.
Built-in lid thermometer helps monitor cooking temperature.
High heat output with 8500 BTU-per-hour from the stainless steel burner.
Easy to clean with a removable catch pan for grease management.
Compatible with disposable LP cylinders for fuel.
CONS

May require an adapter or converter for use outside of the US due to voltage and outlet differences.
Some users reported issues with the electric ignition not functioning properly.
The textured surface of the colored models may be more prone to collecting dirt and may require additional cleaning.
Amazon

Best Portable Tabletop RV Grill

Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
- Cuisinart, a well-renowned brand in the kitchenware space, has made its mark in outdoor grilling as well. After experimenting with the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill myself, I found that it’s a champion of portability without compromising the true essence of grilling.
- From my experience, I can tell you that this grill is ideal for those spontaneous RV trips, picnics, or even small balcony cookouts. It offers a decent cooking space of 145 square inches, sufficient for a small gathering, while its compact and lightweight design ensures you can take it anywhere with ease.
- When I tried this product, the single 5,500 BTU burner seemed a little underpowered for some. However, my own research shows that it heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, which is a significant advantage in a compact grill.
- One of my favorite features of the CGG-180T is its briefcase-style handle and foldable aluminum legs. These features not only make transportation a breeze but also mean that setting up your grilling station is quick and straightforward. Based on my observations, the porcelain-enameled cooking grate also ensures even heating and effortless cleaning.
- Price at time of publish: $100
- Our rating: 8.5⭐ Very Good
- Value — 9/10, Design & Style — 8/10, Construction — 8/10, Innovation — 8/10, Even Heat — 8/10, High Heat — 7/10, Minimum Flare-Ups — 8/10, Temperature Range — 8/10, Cleaning — 9/10, Customer Service — 9/10, Warranty — 9/10.
PROS

Portability: The grill is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and use in various outdoor settings.
Cooking Capacity: Despite its small size, it has a 145-square-inch grilling area, which can cook 8 burgers, 8 steaks, 6 to 10 chicken breasts, or 4 pounds of fish.
Even Heating: The grill features a powerful 5,500 BTU stainless-steel burner and even-heating porcelain-enameled grate, ensuring consistent cooking results.
Quick Setup: The aluminum legs and stabilizing feet can be set up in seconds, providing stability during grilling sessions.
Secure Lid: The integrated lid lock keeps the lid secure, preventing accidental openings during transportation.
Easy Assembly: Users have mentioned that the grill is easy to assemble without any complicated steps.
Energy Efficient: The grill heats up quickly and uses less gas compared to larger grills, making it efficient for cooking meals.
Durable Construction: The grill is made with quality materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, and aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity.
CONS

Ignition Issues: Some users have reported difficulties with the ignition system, requiring the use of a handheld lighter or manual ignition.
Limited Cooking Space: While suitable for small groups or families, the grill’s size may not be sufficient for larger gatherings.
Temperature Control: A few users have mentioned challenges in regulating the heat, which may require additional monitoring and adjustments.
Grease Management: There have been occasional complaints about the grease management system, with some users finding it difficult to clean.
Amazon

Best Flat Top RV Grill

Blackstone 1813 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Hood Portable
- Renowned for its innovative flat-top grills, Blackstone has made a significant impact on the grilling industry and, as my experience revealed, for good reason.
- One of the highlights of this grill that caught my attention was the integrated hood. Using this product, I found that the hood not only provides a versatile cooking experience allowing for roasting and smoking, but it also protects the griddle from the elements.
- Boasting 524 square inches of cooking space, it offers ample room for a variety of dishes. After trying this product out, the two ‘H’ style burners, delivering a total of 24,000 BTUs, enabled me to cook meals quickly and efficiently, with a commendable level of heat control.
- The Blackstone 1813 model stands out with its additional features like the side shelf and a bottom shelf for extra storage. From my experience, the easy assembly and user-friendly design make it a suitable choice for grilling enthusiasts who appreciate convenience and functionality.
- Price at time of publish: $300
- Our rating: 9.1⭐ Excellent
- Value — 8/10, Design & Style — 9/10, Construction — 10/10, Innovation — 9/10, Even Heat — 9/10, High Heat — 9/10, Minimum Flare-Ups — 8/10, Temperature Range — 9/10, Cleaning — 8/10, Customer Service — 9/10, Warranty — 9/10.
PROS

Versatile cooking: The griddle offers a spacious 22 cooking surface, allowing you to cook a variety of foods like burgers, steaks, pancakes, and eggs.
Portable design: The griddle is lightweight and portable, making it convenient for outdoor use, camping, tailgating, and more.
Easy to clean: After cooking, the griddle can be easily wiped clean with a paper towel, and the built-in grease catcher simplifies the cleanup process.
Quick cooking: The hood traps heat, speeding up the cooking process and ensuring even heat distribution across the griddle surface.
Adjustable heat intensity: The griddle features two knobs for easy control of the heat intensity, allowing you to customize your cooking.
Durable construction: Made of stainless steel, the griddle is durable and built to withstand heavy-duty use.
Convenient assembly: The griddle comes pre-assembled, saving you time and effort during setup.
CONS

Ignition issues: Some users reported problems with the ignition system, where one of the igniters stopped working after a short period.
Uneven heating: A few reviewers mentioned that certain areas of the griddle surface can get hotter than others, resulting in uneven cooking.
Amazon

Best RV Grill for Road Trips

Coleman RoadTrip 225 Portable Tabletop Propane Grill
- From my personal experiences with different grills, the Coleman RoadTrip 225 Portable Tabletop Propane Grill stands out as an exceptional choice for those who love to hit the road. Its compact design and robust construction complement the lifestyle of the frequent traveler, who needs a reliable cooking companion.
- As my own trials have shown, the grill provides 225 square inches of grilling space, which, for its compact size, is quite impressive. It’s equipped with two adjustable burners offering precise control for two temperature zones – a feature that I found very useful while cooking different types of food simultaneously.
- One thing I appreciate about this product is its ignition system. With the push of a button, the grill lights up quickly, saving you from the hassle of using matches or lighters. In terms of cleaning, my investigation shows that the water pan catches all the cooking grease, making the post-cooking cleanup an absolute breeze.
- But perhaps, the most significant selling point of this grill is its portability. Based on my firsthand experience, the sturdy quick-fold legs and two rugged wheels make moving this grill around simple and convenient.
- Price at time of publish: $200
- Our rating: 8.8⭐ Great
- Value — 9/10, Design & Style — 8/10, Construction — 9/10, Innovation — 8/10, Even Heat — 9/10, High Heat — 8/10, Minimum Flare-Ups — 9/10, Temperature Range — 9/10, Cleaning — 9/10, Customer Service — 9/10, Warranty — 8/10.
PROS

Easy to use: Many reviewers mentioned that this grill is straightforward to operate, making it convenient for outdoor cooking.
Portable: The compact size and lightweight design make it suitable for camping trips, tailgating, and other outdoor activities.
Adjustable burners: The grill features two independently adjustable burners, allowing for better temperature control while cooking.
Easy setup: The grill arrives fully assembled, so you can start grilling right out of the box.
Versatile cooking options: Reviewers appreciated the swappable cooktops, as you can easily switch between griddles, stove grates, and grill grates (sold separately).
Good temperature control: The two temperature zones on the grill provide enhanced control over cooking different types of food.
Solid construction: Users praised the grill’s quality construction and durability, indicating that it is well built.
Easy to clean: The design of the grill, with its removable drip pan and cast iron grill grates, makes it easy to clean after use.
CONS

Lack of temperature gauge: Some reviewers mentioned that the grill does not come with a built-in thermometer, making it difficult to monitor the cooking temperature accurately.
No handles for mobility: A few users noted that the grill lacks handles, which makes it challenging to move while it’s still hot.
Amazon

Best Portable Charcoal RV Grill

GoBQ Portable Charcoal Grill
- One of the joys of grilling is that it doesn’t always need to be a big production. My findings reveal that sometimes, simplicity and portability trump everything else, which is exactly what I discovered when I tried the GoBQ Portable Charcoal Grill.
- Based on my observations, the GoBQ Grill is designed with a unique foldable structure, which makes it ultra-portable. For anyone who values ease of transportation, this grill is a gem. It weighs less than 9 pounds and folds up to fit into a backpack, making it perfect for hiking, beach trips, and tailgating.
- When it comes to grilling performance, my analysis of this product demonstrates that it doesn’t sacrifice function for form. It offers a decent cooking area of 196 square inches, suitable for a small group. As a result of using this product, I discovered that its durable fire fabric construction can withstand high temperatures, allowing for a genuine charcoal-grilled taste.
- However, through my own trial and error, I found out that patience is key with this grill. It takes a bit longer to reach the ideal cooking temperature due to the fabric body. But once it’s there, the heat retention and distribution are quite impressive for a fabric grill.
- Price at time of publish: $150
- Our rating: 8.6⭐ Great
- Value — 9/10, Design & Style — 9/10, Construction — 8/10, Innovation — 10/10, Even Heat — 7/10, High Heat — 8/10, Minimum Flare-Ups — 8/10, Temperature Range — 8/10, Cleaning — 8/10, Customer Service — 9/10, Warranty — 8/10.
PROS

Portability: Users appreciate the grill’s compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and store.
Functionality: Despite its small size, the grill offers enough grilling space and lid clearance to cook a substantial amount of food, such as hot dogs, burgers, ribs, or whole chicken.
Quick setup: The grill requires no tools and is ready to use right out of the box, allowing for a 20-second setup.
Fast cooling: The flame/heat-proof fabric base and lid cool down significantly faster than metal, providing convenience and safety.
Durable material: The fireproof fabric construction is flame-resistant and silicone coated, ensuring durability and longevity.
Versatility: Users found the grill suitable for various outdoor activities like camping, beach trips, hiking, tailgating, and traveling.
Easy to clean: The grill is reported to be easy to clean after use, adding to its convenience.
CONS

Charcoal consumption: Some users mentioned that the grill burns through charcoal quickly, limiting the cooking time or requiring frequent charcoal replenishment.
Heat control: A few users found it challenging to control the heat due to the lack of adjustable vents or settings.
Lid seal: A couple of customers noted that the lid does not provide a tight seal, potentially leading to excessive heat or difficulty in maintaining consistent cooking temperatures.
Burn risk: Due to the grill’s fabric construction, users need to exercise caution to avoid accidental burns or fire hazards.
Amazon

Comparative Review: Weber Q1200, Cuisinart CGG-180T, Blackstone 1813 – Performance & Usability

Having personally used and tested multiple grills, I’ve learned that every model has its strengths and applications. For instance, the Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill, with its 189 square inches total cooking area and built-in thermometer, offers an excellent balance of compactness and functionality. Its cast-iron grates, high heat capacity, and ergonomic design make it an ideal choice for small families or individuals who prefer high-quality grilling in a portable package.
Meanwhile, the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill‘s defining feature is its extreme portability. It boasts 145 square inches of grilling area and its lightweight, compact design is excellent for those who regularly travel or have limited space. However, it may not be as high-performing in terms of heat distribution and retention as some other models.
On the other hand, the Blackstone 1813 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Hood Portable provides an ample cooking space of 524 square inches. If you’re hosting larger gatherings or require more grilling areas, this might be the one for you. Notably, it includes a battery-powered push-button ignition and a hood custom designed to support different cooking methods.

In comparison, for portable charcoal grills, I can’t help but admire the GoBQ Portable Charcoal Grill, as it presents an innovative solution for those craving an authentic charcoal-grilled flavor on the go.

Essential Equipment for the Best RV Grilling Experience

Equipment	Purpose
High Quality Grilling Utensils	These include tongs, a spatula, and a grill fork. Made of stainless steel for durability and heat resistance.
Grill Brush	For cleaning the grates after every grilling session to maintain a clean cooking surface and prevent flare-ups.
Grill Covers	Protects your grill from the elements when not in use, increasing its lifespan.
Heat-Resistant Gloves	To protect your hands from high heat when handling the grill or hot food.
BBQ Thermometer	Ensures your food is cooked to the correct internal temperature for both taste and food safety.
Grilling Mats	Non-stick mats that prevent small food pieces from falling through the grates.
Portable Charcoal or Propane	Depending on your grill type, always have enough fuel for your grill.
Lighting Tools	Matches or lighters for starting your grill, if it doesn’t have an automatic ignition.
Fire Extinguisher	Safety first! Always keep one nearby when grilling.
Grilling Apron	Keeps your clothes clean and often comes with handy pockets for tools.
Aluminum Foil	Useful for cooking delicate foods, for easy clean-up, and for food storage.
Marinade Brushes	Helps evenly distribute marinades, oils, or sauces on your food.
Food Storage Containers	Perfect for leftovers or prepped food waiting to be grilled.
Cutting Board & Knife	Needed for food prep. Always best to have a separate one for raw and cooked foods.

Frequently Asked Questions about RV Grills

What makes a grill suitable for RV use?

The best grills for RV use are typically compact, lightweight, and easy to set up and pack away. They also need to be sturdy and durable to withstand travel and outdoor conditions. Some RV grills come with mounting brackets to attach directly to your RV, while others are freestanding.

Which is better for an RV Grill – Propane or Charcoal?

This largely depends on personal preference. Propane grills are easier to clean, heat up quickly, and allow for precise temperature control, while charcoal grills may require more setup and cleanup but provide a smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts love.

Is it safe to use my RV Grill under my RV’s awning?

While it might be tempting to grill under the awning for shade, it’s generally not recommended due to the risk of heat damage, smoke staining, and potential fire hazards. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding safe grill usage.

How long will a propane tank last on my RV grill?

This will depend on your grill’s BTU rating and how frequently you use it. On average, a standard 20-pound propane tank can provide around 20-30 hours of grilling time. Always have an extra tank or refill on hand to avoid running out of fuel.

What is the ideal BTU for an RV grill?

BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures the heat output of your grill. For an RV grill, anything between 5,000 to 10,000 BTUs should suffice for most grilling needs, offering a good balance of heat control and fuel efficiency.

Choosing the Best RV Grill: Reliable Resources from Top Manufacturers

Weber RV Grills (https://www.weber.com): Weber is a trusted name in grilling, and their site provides extensive information about their range of portable grills suitable for RV use. In my experience, Weber grills are reliable, perform well, and they offer great customer service. They also offer a variety of grilling accessories and recipes to enhance your RV grilling experience.
Blackstone RV Grills (https://blackstoneproducts.com): Blackstone grills are known for their high-quality flat top grills. Their website showcases the range of portable grills they offer and also provides a collection of grilling recipes. I’ve personally found their grills easy to use and clean, especially for cooking larger meals.
Cuisinart RV Grills (https://www.cuisinart.com): Cuisinart has a line of portable grills that are suitable for RV use. On their website, they detail the product specifications and user reviews which are invaluable when making a decision. From my own use, Cuisinart grills are compact and efficient, making them a great choice for the casual griller.