Why Every Camper Needs A Portable Propane Tabletop Grill
I live in my travel trailer and travel the country full-time.
One of the main reasons I started camping full-time was to spend more time outdoors. And you know what my favorite outdoor activity is? Grilling!
My go-to is the Weber Q2200, and I couldn’t be happier with it. It’s a portable, propane-powered tabletop grill—perfect for life on the road since we always keep propane stocked in our camper.
See Also: 16 Tips for Grilling Safely with Tabletop Propane Grills
Compact and lightweight yet incredibly durable, it’s easy to store in the back of the truck. Setting up is a breeze: I just grab my camp table, set the grill on it, and I’m ready to BBQ. I even use a cast iron pan on it occasionally for some added versatility.
If you’re not as much of a grilling enthusiast as I am, you might not need something as robust as the Weber Q2200.
Today, I’ll be reviewing some of the best portable propane tabletop grills on the market, catering to different needs and sizes. Whether you’re an RV traveler like me, a weekend camper, a tailgater, or just someone who wants a portable BBQ for the backyard, there’s a grill on this list for you.
From ultra-compact designs to larger setups, all the options are portable and built to help you enjoy the outdoors with a delicious BBQ in hand. Let’s dive in!
Summary (Links to Amazon)
- Most Portable – Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill
- Royal Gourmet Propane Tabletop Grill
- Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill
- Best Overall – Napoleon TQ285
- Premium Option – Weber Q2200 Propane Gas Grill
- Best Griddle – Blackstone Propane Tabletop Griddle
Best Overall
Premium Option
Best Griddle Option
Last update on 2024-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Portable Propane Tabletop Grills Reviews & Info
1. Coleman Fold N Go Tabletop Grill
First up is the Coleman Fold N Go, one of the smallest and most portable grills in this review. Even if you’re not into camping, you’ve likely heard of Coleman.
With a compact 105-square-inch cooking surface, it’s perfect for grilling meals for two. Despite its size, it packs a punch with a 6,000 BTU horseshoe-style burner and a porcelain-coated grate. Connected to a 1 lb propane tank, it can run for up to 3.5 hours on high.
Portability is its biggest advantage. It’s lightweight, folds down neatly, and features a built-in handle for easy transport. Cleaning is simple too, thanks to a removable grease tray and easy-to-scrub surface.
See Also: Best Outdoor Bluetooth Speakers Compared & Reviewed
Setting it up is effortless—just place it on a table, attach a propane cylinder, ignite with a long lighter, and adjust the temperature as needed.
While a built-in temperature gauge would have been a nice addition, you can easily add one yourself, like the like this from Dozyant (click to view on Amazon). There’s also an optional case for storing the grill and two propane cylinders, keeping everything compact and organized.
The Coleman Fold N Go is ideal for occasional grillers with limited storage, such as couples traveling in small RVs. Its portability, functionality, and ease of use make it a great choice for on-the-go cooking.
PROS
- Easy Cleanup
- Small & lightweight
- Built-In Handle
- Most portable
- Adapter For Larger Propane Tanks Available
- Storage Bag Available
CONS
- No Built-In Temperature Gauge
- No Spark Ignition
- Not Compatible With Coleman Griddle Accessory
2. Royal Gourmet Propane Tabletop Grill
Next, let’s explore slightly larger tabletop grills, perfect for camping, tailgating, or backyard use.
The Royal Gourmet propane tabletop grill combines sleek design with practicality, featuring a stainless steel finish, durable grates, and a chrome-coated warming rack. Measuring 27.4” x 17.3” x 14.4” and weighing about 18 lbs, it offers a spacious 285-square-inch cooking area—enough to grill up to 8 burgers.
See Also: Best Propane Camping Stoves – From Small To Large
Portability is a breeze with foldable legs, a locking lid, and a built-in handle. The 10,000 BTU burner ensures efficient heating, and the push-button ignition is a lifesaver if you forget matches or a lighter. It’s designed to connect to a 1 lb propane tank, though a larger tank can be used with a hose/adapter (click to view on Amazon).
Cleaning is simple, thanks to removable grates, and the durable materials make it ideal for frequent use. While it doesn’t come with a protective bag, the Royal Gourmet grill stands out as a solid choice for both casual and avid grillers.
PROS
- High BTU Output
- Large Grill Area
- Stainless Steel Grates
- Locking Lid & Handle
- Push Button Ignition
- Folding Legs
- Adapter For Larger Propane Tanks Available
CONS
- No Storage Bag Available
- No Built-In Temperature Gauge
- No Compatible Griddle Accessory
3. Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill
Cuisinart offers a range of excellent portable tabletop grills, from a picnic grill (click to view on Amazon) to a larger stainless steel tabletop grill (click to view on Amazon) with a higher BTU burner. The Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill, however, is the perfect travel companion thanks to its compact size and thoughtful design.
With 145 square inches of grill space, it fits up to 6 burgers. The thick porcelain-coated grate ensures durability, while the aluminum legs with sturdy feet elevate the grill high enough to protect surfaces without a heat shield.
See Also: Best Pop Up Screen Tents & Camping Shelters
The burner outputs 5,500 BTU, and the front control knob doubles as a Piezo push ignition for easy lighting. For portability, the legs fold, the lid latches, and a built-in handle makes it easy to carry. A removable drip tray simplifies cleanup.
Even set up, it’s only 13” tall, 18” long, and 12” wide, weighing just 13 lbs. Unlike some portable grills, the Cuisinart allows cooking with the lid down for better temperature control. It connects to a 1 lb propane tank, but you can use a adapter hose (click to view on Amazon) for larger tanks.
The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet gas grill is a fantastic option for camping couples or small families who grill frequently but not every day. It’s compact, easy to use, and loaded with practical features like twist ignition and lid-down cooking.
PROS
- Tall Legs (Won’t Burn Table Underneath)
- Very Compact & Portable
- Locking Lid
- Piezo Ignition
- Removable Drip Tray
- Locking Lid & Handle
- Folding Legs
- Adapter For Larger Propane Tanks Available
CONS
- Fairly Low BTU Output For Grill Area
- Porcelain Coated Grate (Stainless Steel Would Be Better)
4. Napoleon TQ285 Gas Grill
The Napoleon TQ285-BL showcases why Napoleon is a standout in the grill industry. This tabletop grill is loaded with features, making it one of the best choices in this review.
With a spacious 285-square-inch cooking area and two 12,000 BTU burners, it ensures even cooking for all your grilling needs. The Jetfire ignition system lights up quickly, and the Accu-Probe temperature gauge lets you monitor the heat for smoking, baking, roasting, or searing.
The porcelain-coated grates come with a griddle option, perfect for frying bacon or caramelizing onions alongside your burgers. Grease management is easy with a stainless steel drip tray.
See Also: Best Unbreakable RV & Camping Dishes Reviewed
Designed for portability, the legs fold for compact storage, and the locking lid secures the grill during transport. It connects to 1 lb propane tanks but can also work with 20 lb tanks using a hose adapter like this (click to view on Amazon).
For extra convenience, Napoleon offers a storage/carry bag purchased separately (click to view on Amazon).
The Napoleon TQ285-BL is ideal for families or grilling enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance in a portable design. It’s equally at home in the backyard, at a tailgate, or on a camping trip. With the largest cooking area in this review, dual burners, and a weight lighter than the Weber Q2200, it’s a versatile and travel-friendly powerhouse for any BBQ occasion.
PROS
- 2 Burners
- 285 Sq. In. Cooking Area
- 12,000 BTU
- Accu-Probe Temperature Gauge
- Twist-Start Ignition
- Easy Cleanup
- Folding Legs & Locking Lid
- Adapter For Larger Propane Tanks Available
- Griddle Included
- Carry Bag Optional
CONS
- Heavy
5. Weber Q2200 Propane Gas Grill
The last grill in today’s review comes from the iconic brand Weber. Featured in my Ultimate RV Kitchen Accessories List, the Weber Q2200 is the tabletop grill I personally use and love.
With a 280-square-inch cooking area and a single 12,000 BTU burner, it delivers even heating. The easy-start electronic ignition (battery-powered) eliminates the need for lighters, and in my experience, it’s reliable every time.
Designed for 1 lb propane tanks, it can also connect to larger tanks with an adapter. Grease management is simple with optional drip pans by Weber or a DIY solution like aluminum foil.
See Also: Best Folding Oversized Moon Chairs For Camping Reviewed
The grill includes folding side tables for added convenience, providing space for tools or food during cooking. A built-in temperature gauge helps monitor heat levels, and the lid retains heat well enough for baking. I also use my cast iron pan on it, which works great as a stove alternative.
At 44 lbs, it’s the heaviest grill in this review. While the sturdy handles make it manageable to carry, you’ll need to account for its weight if traveling. A Weber grill cover (click to view on Amazon) is highly recommended for protection during storage or travel, and a portable cart is available for backyard use.
Compared to the Napoleon TQ285, the Weber Q2200 holds its own with outstanding performance and versatility. However, the Napoleon edges it out in portability with a lighter weight and foldable design.
If you’re looking for a robust tabletop grill for camping, tailgating, or home use, the Weber Q2200 is an excellent choice.
PROS
- 280 Sq. In. Cooking Area
- 12,000 BTU
- Temperature Gauge
- Electric Ignition
- Easy Cleanup
- Foldable Side Tables
- Cover Available
- Adapter For Larger Propane Tanks Available
CONS
- Heavy
6. Blackstone Propane Tabletop Griddle
While tabletop grills are great for camping, sometimes a tabletop griddle is the better choice. The Blackstone Propane tabletop griddle offers versatility, allowing you to cook a wider variety of foods than traditional grills, and it packs plenty of power in a compact, portable design.
This griddle features two 12,000 BTU burners, each with independent temperature control, letting you cook at two different heat levels simultaneously—perfect for burgers and steaks. The griddle itself, made of rolled carbon steel, offers a generous 339 square inches of cooking space, the largest in this review.
See Also: Best Rechargeable Headlamps Reviews (Running & Outdoor)
Cleanup is simple with a built-in grease collector at the back. Despite its spacious cooking surface, the unit remains compact, measuring 22.5″ x 19″ x 9″ and weighing 32 lbs, thanks to the durable steel griddle. For storage, the griddle flips over to protect the burners, or you can use an optional lid/cover for cleanliness and heat retention.
Designed for 1 lb propane tanks, it can connect to larger tanks using a hose adapter. Additional accessories, such as a cloth cover, further enhance portability and protection.
The Blackstone tabletop griddle is a standout for campers who love cooking breakfast favorites like eggs, pancakes, and bacon, or for anyone looking to fry and grill a variety of dishes outdoors. While not technically a gas grill, its versatility, ease of cleaning, and powerful burners make it an essential addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
PROS
- High BTU Burners
- Two Heat Zones
- Built In Grease Trap
- Lid & Cover Available
- Can Be Used With Larger Propane Tanks With Adapter
- Can Cook More Kinds Of Food Than Grill
- Electric Ignitor
CONS
- Heavy
- No Grill Grate
Conclusion & My Recommendations For Best The Tabletop Grills
Looks like grilled food is on the menu tonight!
I hope this guide has helped you navigate the world of portable grills and feel confident in choosing the right one for your needs. If your first grilling attempts don’t turn out perfect, don’t give up—it takes practice to master your grill, and with time, you’ll be cooking amazing meals.
For accessories, check out the FAQ below, where I share some of my favorites.
Now, here are my top portable propane tabletop grill recommendations:
Premium Option – Weber Q2200 Propane Gas Grill
The Weber Q2200 is a top-notch gas grill that excels in performance. With its large cooking area, powerful 12,000 BTU burner, and convenient built-in side tables, it’s a powerhouse of a tabletop grill.
While it’s on the heavier side, the sturdy handles make it easy to carry, maintaining its portability. If you’re an everyday griller looking for something compact enough for the backyard yet versatile enough for tailgating or camping trips, the Weber Q2200 is an excellent choice.
It could easily take the top spot if portability weren’t the main focus of this review. While still portable, its weight and size can be a challenge for those with limited storage space.
Best Griddle Option – Blackstone Propane Tabletop Griddle
A griddle is an essential tool for camping, offering a large cooking surface to whip up bacon, eggs, and pancakes all at once. While some tabletop grills have optional griddle accessories, these are often thin and provide less even heating compared to dedicated griddles like the Blackstone.
The Blackstone Tabletop Griddle stands out with its high-quality griddle surface, two powerful independent burners, a built-in grease trap, an ignition switch, and an optional lid for cooking versatility.
If you plan to use a griddle more often for outdoor cooking, the Blackstone is one of the best choices available.
Best Overall – Napoleon TQ285 Gas Grill
The Napoleon TQ285-BL is a top-tier portable tabletop grill, offering features typically found in high-end propane grills. Its 285-square-inch cooking area is evenly heated by two burners, ensuring perfectly grilled food.
Weighing less than the Weber Q2200, it enhances portability without compromising performance. This grill is ideal for daily use, whether at home or on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tabletop Grills & BBQs
What are the best outdoor grilling accessories?
There are tons of grilling accessories, and I haven’t tried them all, but here are the ones I use:
- Propane Hose: DOZYANT Propane Adapter – The first accessory I bought for my gas grill was a propane adapter to connect larger tanks instead of the small 1 lb cylinders. Mine is 4 feet long, but longer options are also available.
- Tool Set: Grillaholics 4-Piece Stainless Steel Tool Set – In my experience, you don’t need a case full of fancy grilling tools. All you really need are the essentials: a spatula, tongs, a fork, and a brush. After years of grilling, I’ve never felt like I was missing anything with just these basics. The Grillaholics 4-Piece set has everything you need, built to last and handle any grilling task with ease. Durable and reliable, it’s the perfect companion for both novice and seasoned grillers.
- Food Thermometer: ThermoPro TP-16 – When cooking chicken or pork, it’s essential to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked. I use a handy digital thermometer that not only gives an accurate reading but also displays the recommended safe temperatures for common meats. It’s perfect for ensuring safety with poultry or pork and for knowing when meats like steak are rare, if that’s your preference. Heb.com has a great article on the subject.
- Melting Dome: Cuisinart Stainless Steel Melting Dome – If you want perfectly melted cheese on your burger or need to trap heat around your steak, this dome is the tool for the job. It works great on both griddles and grills, ensuring evenly cooked and flavorful results.
- Grill Press: Lodge Rectangular Cast Iron Grill Press – Another handy tool I use on both grills and griddles is the Lodge Cast Iron Press. It’s perfect for flattening burgers and helps food cook faster by pressing it evenly while retaining heat. Simply let it heat up on the grill before placing it on your food for excellent results.
- Grill Brush: Grillart Grill Brush And Scraper – The only tool I use to clean my grill is the Grillart grill brush and scraper. It’s incredibly effective, letting me clean both the grates and the interior of the grill in just a few minutes. If you’ve struggled with brushes that don’t get the job done, this one is a game-changer.
Where do I get propane gas for my tabletop grill?
Propane refills and tank exchanges are widely available across the country. I recommend using AmeriGas’ website to find specific locations. Most grocery stores and gas stations also sell propane, making it easy to stock up.
How do I keep my tabletop grill clean?
When I clean my tabletop grill, I use the Grillart brush and scraper. After each use, I scrape the grates while they are still warm to remove food residue.
Keeping the burners clean is my priority—I wipe them down with a damp sponge after use.
As for the exterior, I clean it more frequently than the interior using soap and water to keep it looking fresh.
Can I use a propane gas grill indoors?
No, don’t do that. The burned propane gas releases deadly carbon monoxide at a much faster rate than your gas stove in an RV.
Is it bad for your health to grill with propane gas or charcoal?
Grilling with propane is healthier than using charcoal.
When fat drips onto the heat source and burns, it creates PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), which can coat your food. Charcoal produces more smoke than propane, leading to higher levels of these carcinogens.
You can reduce PAH exposure by trimming excess fat from your meats. Marinating your meat in vinegar or lemon juice can also cut HCAs (another carcinogen) by up to 90%.
Can propane grill regulators go bad?
Yes, gas grill regulators can fail and prevent your grill from lighting. A common sign is uneven burner performance, with the one closest to the gas connection burning stronger than the one farthest away.
If this happens, it’s time to replace the regulator. Even if it hasn’t failed, replacing it after 10 years is a good precaution.
Regulators are generally interchangeable, but if you have multiple burners, you may need a high-flow regulator to ensure adequate propane flow to light all burners evenly.
What do I put under my tabletop grill?
Tabletop grills can get very hot underneath, and using one on a plastic table could cause it to melt. Grills with tall legs reduce this risk, but using a heat-resistant mat is a smart precaution.
There are several options available to ensure safe cooking surfaces.
You can place your tabletop grill on a silicone heat pad (click to view on Amazon) or even use a large heat mat (click to view on Amazon) that is meant to put under firepits.
Have any more questions about tabletop grills and BBQs? Leave a comment below.
Great Article
Incredible Post! I loved these propane gas grills. I’m planning to buy Smoke Hollow 205 for camping BBQ grilling.