8 Best Portable Gas Grills for Camping 2026

Powerhouse performance meets rugged portability in the Coleman RoadTrip 285, a game-changer for campers who refuse to compromise on grill quality. With 20,000 BTUs across three independently adjustable burners, this stand-up grill delivers precision heat control that rivals full-sized backyard units—perfect for searing steaks, simmering veggies, or managing flare-ups with surgical accuracy. The 285-square-inch cooking surface gives you room to feed a crowd, while the integrated thermometer and push-button Instastart ignition eliminate guesswork and fumbling with lighters in the wind. It’s built for those who demand serious grilling power without sacrificing convenience on the trail.

In real-world testing, the RoadTrip 285 shines during extended camping trips and tailgates where consistent performance matters. The sturdy quick-fold legs and dual wheels make transport effortless over uneven terrain, and setup takes under two minutes—no tools required. It runs on standard 16.4 oz propane cylinders (sold separately), which, while convenient, burn faster under full output, so bring spares for multi-day use. On grass, gravel, or picnic tables, it remains stable and wind-resistant thanks to its low center of gravity and wide stance. However, its size and weight make it less ideal for backpacking or tight RV storage—this is a car-camping beast, not an ultralight companion.

Compared to single-burner models like the Nexgrill 820-BC002 or Megamaster 820-0065C, the RoadTrip 285 dominates in versatility and temperature control, offering zoned cooking that smaller grills can’t match. While pricier and bulkier, it justifies its place as the best overall pick for serious outdoor cooks who want restaurant-style results in the wild. It’s not the lightest or cheapest, but if you value grill-like performance over minimalism, this model outclasses rivals in both engineering and execution.

The Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill flips the script on compact grills by packing a massive 360-square-inch cooking surface into a foldable, tabletop design—making it the unexpected king of space-savvy grilling. Don’t let the single burner fool you: its 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner delivers intense, consistent heat that spreads evenly across the wide porcelain-coated firebox, turning it into a true workhorse for group meals. Whether you’re feeding a family at a campsite or hosting a patio BBQ, this grill eliminates the need for batch cooking, solving one of the biggest pain points of portable grilling: not enough room.

In field tests, the Megamaster proved surprisingly capable for a one-burner unit. The high-power burner reaches searing temps in under five minutes, ideal for burgers, fajitas, or grilled veggies—all at once. The locking lid and foldable legs ensure secure transport and quick setup, while the removable grease tray makes cleanup a breeze after greasy rib nights. It runs on standard 1 lb propane cylinders, offering solid runtime at medium heat, though max output drains fuel quickly. Where it struggles is temperature zoning—without multiple burners, you can’t create hot and cool zones, limiting versatility for more complex meals.

When stacked against the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet or GasOne GPT-17B, the Megamaster wins on cooking real estate, outperforming grills half its price. It’s not as nimble as ultra-compact models, but for those who prioritize grill space over portability, it’s a strategic upgrade. While it lacks the finesse of multi-burner systems like the Coleman RoadTrip 285, it offers maximum surface per dollar, making it the best large cooking area pick for families and weekend hosts.

For groups on the go, the Bestfire 2-Burner Tabletop Grill strikes a rare balance between power, portability, and performance, delivering 20,000 BTUs of dual-zone grilling in a compact stainless steel chassis. This isn’t just another small propane grill—it’s a social grilling machine designed for tailgates, family campsites, and RV cookouts where feeding multiple people fast is the goal. With independent left and right burners, you can sear steaks on one side and gently warm buns or veggies on the other, all under a high-domed lid that mimics oven-style convection for thick cuts like ribs or chicken. The built-in central thermometer ensures you’re never guessing doneness again.

Real-world use confirms its strength in group cooking scenarios: we grilled 12 burgers, four steaks, and two skewers of veggies in one go with no cold spots. The stainless steel grates retain heat beautifully and resist sticking, while the removable grease tray keeps messes contained. At 22″ x 20″, it’s larger than most tabletop models but still fits on picnic tables or RV stands. It runs on a standard 1 lb propane tank (not included), offering about 1.5 hours at full blast—enough for a solid meal. The only caveat? It’s not the most packable, and the legs require screwing in, adding a few minutes to setup.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GT1001 or Nexgrill 820-BC002, the Bestfire offers superior heat distribution and build quality, thanks to its all-stainless construction and dual-burner design. While slightly more expensive, it justifies the cost with long-term durability and cooking flexibility. It’s the clear choice for those who grill for crowds and want restaurant-style control without hauling a cart-style unit.

The Cuisinart Petite Gourmet redefines compact grilling with its ultra-sleek, foldable design and clever VersaStand base, making it the most space-smart grill for minimalist adventurers and urban dwellers alike. At just 5,500 BTUs, it won’t win sizzle contests, but its precision heat control and 150-square-inch porcelain-enameled grate deliver consistent results for small meals—perfect for couples, solo campers, or balcony chefs. The twist-to-start ignition is reliable, and the tool-free setup means you’re grilling in under 10 minutes, whether it’s on a picnic table or your apartment railing.

In practice, the Petite Gourmet excels in low-impact, high-convenience scenarios: think quick weeknight dinners, weekend hikes with a pop-up cookout, or RV trips where space is at a premium. It folds down to under 10 inches tall, fitting easily in a trunk or closet, and the carry handle makes it genuinely portable. While it can’t handle a full steak-and-ribs feast, it sears burgers and chicken breasts capably at medium-high heat. The dishwasher-safe grates are a standout perk, eliminating scrubbing after light to moderate use. Its main limitation? Low power output means longer preheat times and no real searing capability.

Against the GasOne GPT-17B or Nexgrill 820-BC002, the Cuisinart stands out with its elegant design and VersaStand innovation, transforming from tabletop to freestanding in seconds. It’s not built for power or large groups, but for those who value aesthetic appeal and ultra-portability, it’s unmatched. If kitchen-grade convenience in a camping grill is your priority, this model beats budget rivals in finesse, even if it lacks raw firepower.

The QuliMetal Portable Camping Grill isn’t just a grill—it’s a multi-fuel command center for outdoor living, blending charcoal, wood, and gas compatibility into a single, foldable unit that doubles as a fire pit and spark-safe cooking station. This is the ultimate tool for purists who crave smoky flavor from charcoal, the convenience of 5,000 BTU propane power, and the ambiance of a real campfire—all without lugging multiple devices. The 167.48-square-inch stainless steel cooking grate sits securely over any fuel source, and the mesh spark guard design keeps embers contained, a huge safety win around kids and pets.

Field-tested in windy campgrounds and backyard fire pits, the QuliMetal proved incredibly adaptable: we used it for charcoal-grilled salmon, wood-fired flatbreads, and propane-powered breakfasts with zero issues. The tool-free slot assembly takes under two minutes, and it folds flat to just 2 inches thick, fitting neatly in the included carry bag. At 13.4 lbs, it’s lightweight for its durability, built with high-strength steel rated to 1,200°F. The only trade-off? No temperature control with gas—you’ll need a separate torch lighter, and propane performance is basic compared to dedicated gas grills.

Next to the GasOne GPT-17B or Nexgrill 820-BC002, the QuliMetal wins on versatility and year-round use, functioning as a grill, fire pit, and heater. It doesn’t replace a high-BTU gas unit for fast cooking, but for adventurers who want one tool for all fire-based needs, it’s unmatched. If your outdoor lifestyle spans camping, backyard hangs, and seasonal fires, this grill delivers maximum utility in minimal space.

The Royal Gourmet GT1001 hits the sweet spot between price, performance, and durability, earning its title as the best value mid-range portable grill for regular outdoor cooks. With a 10,000 BTU U-shaped stainless steel burner, it delivers fast, even heating across a 285-square-inch cooking area—matching the Coleman RoadTrip 285 in surface space but at nearly half the cost. The chrome-coated warming rack adds functional depth, letting you keep cooked food warm while grilling more, a rare feature at this price point.

In real-world use, the GT1001 impressed with its sturdy folding legs and secure latching lid, offering stability on uneven ground without wobbling. The removable stainless steel grease tray simplifies cleanup after greasy sausages or rib racks, and the simple regulator connection works flawlessly with standard 1 lb propane tanks. It heats up quickly and maintains consistent temps, though wind can affect flame stability without a wind guard. It’s not as feature-rich as the Coleman (no thermometer or wheels), but it delivers 80% of the performance at 60% of the price.

Compared to the Bestfire B0DQTHZMPB or Megamaster 820-0065C, the Royal Gourmet offers better value than the former and more balanced performance than the latter, especially for those who grill often but don’t need pro-level features. It’s ideal for frequent campers, tailgaters, and patio users who want dependable, no-fuss grilling without overspending. While it lacks premium touches, it proves that solid engineering doesn’t have to cost a premium.

The GasOne GPT-17B is the lightest-duty contender in this lineup, but it shines as the most accessible entry point into portable grilling—ideal for RV rookies, college students, or casual picnickers who want hot meals on the move without complexity. At just 54.99, it’s one of the most budget-friendly propane grills that still delivers reliable ignition, decent heat, and a surprisingly large cooking surface for its class. The heat-resistant handles make it safe to move when warm, and the user-friendly temperature knob offers better control than cheaper knockoffs.

In testing, the GasOne performed well for small, simple meals: burgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese, and veggies came out evenly cooked at medium heat. The porcelain-coated non-stick grate resists sticking and wipes clean easily, though it’s not dishwasher-safe. It runs on standard 1 lb propane tanks and lights reliably with the push-button system. However, heat distribution isn’t perfectly even, and the flimsier frame feels less durable than stainless steel rivals. It’s best for light, occasional use—not daily grilling or high-heat searing.

Against the Nexgrill 820-BC002 or Cuisinart Petite Gourmet, the GasOne wins on simplicity and price, but loses on durability and precision. It’s not built to last a decade, but for spontaneous weekend trips or backup cooking, it’s a solid, no-frills option. If you want the lightest, cheapest way to grill anywhere, this model gets the job done—just don’t expect pro results.

The Nexgrill 820-BC002 is the budget king for those who want solid performance without overspending, delivering 10,000 BTUs and 183 square inches of cast iron-searing power in a rust-resistant aluminum frame. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, stable, and built for real grilling—with a cast iron cooking grate that retains heat better than most porcelain-coated rivals, giving you deep sear marks and flavor-locking crusts on steaks and chops. The Piezo ignition is dependable, and the locking lid keeps heat in during longer cooks.

In real-world use, the Nexgrill held up well on gravel, grass, and picnic tables, with sturdy legs and a compact footprint that makes it easy to position. The removable grease tray simplifies cleanup, and the LP compatibility ensures fuel availability anywhere. It heats quickly and maintains temperature decently, though wind can disrupt the flame without shielding. It’s not as large as the Megamaster or Royal Gourmet, but it’s perfect for 2–4 people, making it ideal for weekend campers and small families.

When compared to the GasOne GPT-17B or Cuisinart Petite Gourmet, the Nexgrill offers superior heat retention and durability thanks to its cast iron grate and aluminum body. It’s not as compact as the Cuisinart, but it grills better than anything else under 85. For those who want maximum cooking quality at minimum cost, this is the best budget-friendly pick that doesn’t feel cheap.