Picnic grills add flair to your outdoor gear, turning simple get-togethers into unforgettable parties. Their convenience and versatility make weekend picnics and impromptu barbecues a regular treat. **Trust us**, we’ve tested countless models to find the best ones. So, here’s a guide to pick the perfect picnic grill for you.
The ideal picnic grill should be portable, easy to set up, and efficient at grilling all your favorites. It should be compact enough to carry in your car trunk, yet sturdy enough to withstand outdoor conditions and remain functional. Using an unsuitable grill can lead to uneven cooking, safety hazards, or even damage to the equipment itself.
When purchasing a picnic grill, it’s crucial to consider its size, weight, heat source, cooking area, and additional features like portability and ease of cleaning. No matter whether you’re opting for a gas-powered grill, charcoal grill, or electric grill, each type offers different benefits.
After rigorous testing, use, and consideration of these factors, we’ve compiled a list of the best picnic grills. By the end of this article, you can expect to be armed with all the necessary information to choose a picnic grill that suits your needs perfectly, ensuring many delicious outdoor meals in the future.
Best Picnic Grills
Selecting the right picnic grill is crucial for ensuring ease of use, safety, and, of course, an enjoyable outdoor barbecuing experience. The vast range of options available in the market can be quite overwhelming, and hence, we have detailed a list of the best ones based on thorough evaluation and testing processes. We are confident that this comprehensive guide will assist you in making an informed decision.
Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
If you’re looking for a portable charcoal grill that can go anywhere with you, then the Gas One Portable Charcoal Grill is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The 3-point locking system ensures the lid is tightly closed, which is perfect for heat preservation during transportation.
- The top vent design and removable ash pan make cleaning up a breeze.
- The grill is made of durable cast iron with a porcelain coating, making it perfect for long-term use.
Cons
- The grill only has one burner, which may not be enough for larger cooking needs.
- The grill’s cooking area is only 140 square inches, which may not be enough for larger gatherings.
- The grill may not be suitable for those who prefer gas grills over charcoal.
This grill is perfect for those who love the taste of charcoal-grilled food but don’t want to deal with the hassle of lighting and tending to a traditional charcoal grill. The Gas One Portable Charcoal Grill is easy to use and transport, making it perfect for tailgating, camping, and even boat trips.
The 3-point locking system is a standout feature of this grill, as it ensures the lid is tightly closed during transportation, which is perfect for heat preservation. The top vent design and removable ash pan make cleaning up a breeze, which is a huge plus for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning up after cooking.
The grill is made of durable cast iron with a porcelain coating, making it perfect for long-term use. However, the grill only has one burner, which may not be enough for larger cooking needs. Additionally, the grill’s cooking area is only 140 square inches, which may not be enough for larger gatherings.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable charcoal grill that is easy to use and transport, then the Gas One Portable Charcoal Grill is a great choice. However, if you prefer gas grills over charcoal or need a larger cooking area, then this may not be the best option for you.
Uten Charcoal Grill, BBQ Grill Folding Portable Lightweight smoker Grill, Barbecue Grill Small desk Tabletop Outdoor Grill for Camping Picnics Garden Beach Party 17”x11.6”x 2.6”
If you’re looking for a compact and portable charcoal grill, the Uten Charcoal Grill is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The foldable design makes it easy to store and transport, weighing only 14.3 pounds.
- The compact size of 17”x11.6”x 2.6” makes it perfect for small patios or camping trips.
- The removable ash tray makes cleaning up a breeze.
Cons
- The cooking surface is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger gatherings.
- The grill may take a while to heat up to the desired temperature.
- The grill may not be suitable for cooking large cuts of meat.
We’ve used the Uten Charcoal Grill for a few camping trips and backyard gatherings, and we’re impressed with its performance. The foldable design makes it easy to store and transport, and the compact size is perfect for small spaces.
One of the best features of this grill is the removable ash tray. It makes cleaning up a breeze, and you don’t have to worry about disposing of the ashes in an unsafe manner. The grill also comes with a cover, which is great for protecting it from the elements when not in use.
The Uten Charcoal Grill is also easy to use. It comes with a built-in thermometer, so you can easily monitor the temperature of the grill. The adjustable air vent allows you to control the heat, so you can cook your food to your desired level of doneness.
Overall, we highly recommend the Uten Charcoal Grill for anyone looking for a compact and portable charcoal grill. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and perfect for small spaces.
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill, Red 17.6 x 18.6 x 11.8-Inch
If you’re looking for a compact and portable gas grill, the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The 145-square-inch cooking surface can accommodate up to six steaks, burgers, or chicken breasts.
- The fold-down left side table offers extra prep space, while the integrated bottom shelf provides convenient storage.
- The grill is easy to set up and transport, thanks to the built-in handle and 10-inch wheels.
Cons
- The grill’s output is only 5,500 BTU, which may not be enough for larger cuts of meat.
- The lid and firebox are made of stamped steel, which may not be as durable as cast aluminum.
- The grill only has one burner, which may limit your cooking options.
The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet is a great option for those who want a compact and portable gas grill. The 145-square-inch cooking surface is ample for most outdoor cooking needs, and the fold-down left side table offers extra prep space when needed. The grill is also easy to set up and transport, thanks to the built-in handle and 10-inch wheels.
However, the grill’s output of 5,500 BTU may not be enough for larger cuts of meat, and the lid and firebox made of stamped steel may not be as durable as cast aluminum. Additionally, the grill only has one burner, which may limit your cooking options.
Overall, the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet is a solid choice for those looking for a compact and portable gas grill.
Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill
If you’re looking for a portable grill that’s easy to set up and take down, the Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill might be just what you need.
Pros
- The 15-inch x 15-inch cooking surface is perfect for cooking a small amount of food.
- The instant folding legs make it easy to set up and take down.
- The built-in carry handle and compact design make it easy to transport.
Cons
- The 15,000 BTU burner is powerful, but it can be difficult to control the heat.
- The side table is a nice feature, but it’s not very sturdy.
- The grill doesn’t come with a cover, which can be inconvenient for storage and transport.
We’ve used the Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill for a few camping trips and backyard gatherings, and we’ve been generally satisfied with its performance. The setup process is straightforward, and the grill heats up quickly. The cooking surface is small, but it’s perfect for cooking a few burgers or hot dogs.
One thing to keep in mind is that the 15,000 BTU burner can be difficult to control. The heat can fluctuate quite a bit, so it’s important to keep an eye on the food. The side table is a nice feature, but it’s not very sturdy, so it’s best to use it for holding condiments or utensils rather than plates or dishes.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable grill that’s easy to transport and set up, the Fire Sense 60508 Notebook BBQ Grill is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some heat fluctuations and be careful when using the side table.
Barbecue Grill, Charcoal Grill Folding Portable Lightweight Barbecue Grill Tools for Outdoor Grilling Cooking Camping Hiking Picnics Tailgating Backpacking Party (Medium)
If you’re looking for a portable and lightweight charcoal grill that’s perfect for camping and tailgating, then the Barbecue Grill by KINGKANG is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The foldable design of the grill makes it easy to carry around, and it’s lightweight, which makes it perfect for outdoor activities.
- The grill is made of high-quality stainless steel, which ensures its durability and longevity.
- The grill comes with a detachable side table that provides extra space for your grilling tools and other items.
Cons
- The grill’s cooking area is only 189 square inches, which may not be enough for larger gatherings.
- The grill’s height is not adjustable, which may limit your grilling options.
- The grill’s wheels are small and not very sturdy, which may make it difficult to maneuver around rough terrain.
Overall, we found the Barbecue Grill by KINGKANG to be a great option for those who are looking for a portable and lightweight charcoal grill. The grill’s foldable design and high-quality stainless steel construction make it a durable and reliable option for outdoor activities. However, its smaller cooking area and non-adjustable height may limit its usefulness for larger gatherings. If you’re looking for a grill that’s easy to carry around and perfect for camping and tailgating, then the Barbecue Grill by KINGKANG is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best picnic grill, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various models to help you make an informed decision.
Size and Portability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a picnic grill is its size and portability. You want a grill that is easy to transport and can fit in your car or truck. It should also be compact enough to store easily when not in use.
Cooking Surface
The cooking surface is another important factor to consider. You want a grill with a large enough cooking surface to cook enough food for your picnic. However, you also want to make sure that the grill is not too large to be portable.
Fuel Type
Picnic grills can be powered by propane, charcoal, or electricity. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Propane is easy to transport and light, while charcoal provides a unique smoky flavor. Electricity is convenient and easy to use, but may not be available at all picnic sites.
Ease of Use
You want a picnic grill that is easy to use and set up. Look for a grill with simple controls and a quick-starting mechanism. It should also be easy to clean and maintain.
Price
Picnic grills can range in price from under $50 to over $200. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the grill when making your decision. Keep in mind that a higher price does not always mean better quality.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best picnic grill for your needs. Whether you prefer propane, charcoal, or electricity, there is a grill out there that is perfect for you.
