Good food can turn any RV trip into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re parked by a lake, nestled in the woods, or tailgating at your favorite event, having a reliable portable grill adds a whole new dimension to RV living. After testing out several models over time, I can say with confidence that the best portable grills for RV travelers combine size, power, convenience, and durability.
What makes a grill “RV-friendly” isn’t just compact design it’s also about how easily it sets up, how steady it performs under different conditions, and how simple it is to clean. I’ve tried everything from propane-fueled tabletop units to collapsible charcoal grills and found that a few select models rise above the rest. These options are perfect whether you’re cooking for two or hosting a campground BBQ for your neighbors.
Below are my top picks for the best portable grills for RV travelers who want to make the most of their outdoor cooking without hauling a full-size unit around.
1. Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
The Weber Q1200 is a rock-solid choice for RV grilling. It’s compact enough to sit on a picnic table, yet big enough to cook six burgers or a full dinner for a small group. The cast aluminum body and porcelain-enameled grates help retain heat and make cleaning a breeze. I like that it feels just like a full-size grill in a compact shell.
It features a built-in thermometer and fold-out side tables that come in handy when prepping meats or organizing seasonings. The electronic ignition system fires up quickly, and the heat is evenly distributed across the 189 square inches of cooking space. I’ve grilled steaks, veggies, and even fish on it with fantastic results.
Among the best portable grills for RV travelers, the Q1200 is a favorite thanks to its blend of convenience, portability, and grilling performance.
Key Features:
- 189 sq. in. cooking area
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates
- Built-in thermometer and side tables
Pros:
- Compact yet spacious cooking area
- High-quality materials and finish
- Quick and reliable ignition
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some models
- More expensive than basic grills
2. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is ideal for RVers who want a grill with a bit more versatility. It comes with swappable cooktops, so you can switch between grilling and griddle surfaces. I’ve found this feature super helpful when camping with kids pancakes in the morning, burgers by lunch, all with one unit.
With 20,000 BTUs of cooking power and three adjustable burners, this grill offers excellent control over heat zones. The collapsible stand folds up easily, and the wheels make it convenient to roll around the campsite. I often use it as a secondary grill when friends join me, and it holds up to heavy use.
If you’re serious about camp cooking, this model ranks high among the best portable grills for RV travelers because of its flexibility and power.
Key Features:
- 285 sq. in. grilling surface
- Interchangeable cooktops
- Foldable design with wheels
Pros:
- Multiple cooking options
- Easy to transport and store
- Precise temperature control
Cons:
- Bulkier than tabletop units
- Replacement cooktops sold separately
3. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet is one of the most compact gas grills I’ve used, making it perfect for smaller RV setups or van life. Weighing just 13.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry and sets up in seconds. Despite its size, it still offers 145 square inches of grilling space and heats up quickly.
The legs fold underneath for compact storage, and the lid locks securely, so I can toss it into the back of the RV without worrying about parts rattling around. It runs on small 1-lb propane canisters, which are perfect for short trips or limited storage space. This grill is a solid performer when I’m just cooking for one or two people.
When it comes to ease of use and true portability, this is one of the best portable grills for RV travelers who are tight on space or travel light.
Key Features:
- 145 sq. in. grilling area
- Lightweight at 13.5 pounds
- Folding legs and locking lid
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and compact
- Heats evenly despite small size
- Easy to clean and transport
Cons:
- Not ideal for larger groups
- No built-in thermometer
4. Blackstone 22-Inch Tabletop Griddle
The Blackstone 22-inch Tabletop Griddle is a game-changer if you enjoy cooking a variety of foods outdoors. Unlike traditional grills, it has a flat top that makes it ideal for breakfast foods, stir-fry, tacos, or smash burgers. I use mine constantly because it’s so easy to cook multiple items at once.
The griddle surface offers 330 square inches of cooking space with dual burners that allow for different temperature zones. Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the rear grease management system. It connects to a 1-lb propane tank or adapts to a 20-lb tank with an accessory hose.
For those who like to cook beyond burgers and hot dogs, this is one of the best portable grills for RV travelers seeking versatility and capacity.
Key Features:
- 330 sq. in. flat top cooking area
- Two independently controlled burners
- Built-in grease management system
Pros:
- Great for diverse meal options
- Large surface for a tabletop unit
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Bulkier than traditional grills
- Not ideal for grilling over flame
5. Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill
If smoky flavor matters to you, the Traeger Ranger is a high-end portable pellet grill designed for life on the road. I use this when I want the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking with the flavor of real hardwood smoke. It’s surprisingly compact and fits nicely in my RV storage compartment.
The Ranger features digital temperature control and a meat probe, so I can monitor cooking without constantly lifting the lid. The pellet hopper holds enough fuel for several hours of cooking, which is perfect for longer, low-and-slow meals. It’s heavier than most portable grills but still manageable with a sturdy handle.
This model earns a place among the best portable grills for RV travelers who love barbecue and want a more gourmet outdoor cooking experience.
Key Features:
- Digital Arc controller with meat probe
- 184 sq. in. grilling space
- Hopper capacity: 8 lbs
Pros:
- Infuses food with wood-smoked flavor
- Great for slow cooking and smoking
- Precise temperature control
Cons:
- Heavier and pricier than others
- Requires electricity to operate
6. Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable TRU-Infrared Grill
The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is built like a tank and handles rugged travel like a champ. I’ve used this grill on rough terrain and gravel campgrounds, and it continues to perform without issue. The TRU-Infrared technology ensures even heat and reduces flare-ups, which I really appreciate when grilling fatty meats.
It uses small propane canisters, but you can also hook it up to a larger tank with an adapter. The die-cast aluminum construction and locking lid make it extremely durable, and the compact footprint fits perfectly on a small table or tailgate. Despite its rugged build, it’s surprisingly easy to carry around.
This grill stands out among the best portable grills for RV travelers who camp in diverse locations and need a dependable cooking tool.
Key Features:
- 200 sq. in. infrared grilling area
- Heavy-duty die-cast aluminum
- Flare-up resistant cooking system
Pros:
- Even heat with fewer flare-ups
- Extremely durable and portable
- Great for rugged environments
Cons:
- No thermometer included
- Infrared cooking may take getting used to
7. Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grill with Cart
If you prefer the flavor of charcoal grilling, the Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grill is a foldable, easy-to-use option. It features a built-in fan that regulates airflow and temperature, so I can get consistent results every time. I especially like using this for ribs and skewers when I want that classic BBQ taste.
The folding cart makes it stand at full height, which is a nice touch when you don’t want to crouch over a tabletop. The built-in battery-powered fan helps speed up charcoal ignition and keeps the heat level steady without constant tending. It’s surprisingly efficient and doesn’t burn through briquettes too fast.
This grill is ideal among the best portable grills for RV travelers who are passionate about traditional grilling and want a portable unit with added tech.
Key Features:
- Charcoal-powered with airflow control fan
- Foldable cart for standing use
- 200 sq. in. cooking surface
Pros:
- Real charcoal flavor in a portable unit
- Consistent heat control
- Easy to fold and transport
Cons:
- Requires charcoal and battery for fan
- More cleanup than gas grills
8. Flame King RV Mounted Motorhome Gas Grill
The Flame King RV Mounted Gas Grill is designed to attach directly to your RV’s mounting rail, which saves space and adds convenience. I mounted mine to the exterior rail of my travel trailer, and now grilling feels like an extension of my kitchen. It runs off the RV’s propane system, eliminating the need for extra tanks.
This grill offers 214 square inches of grilling area and includes a bracket for wall mounting. It’s sturdy, wind-resistant, and ideal for semi-permanent outdoor setups. The locking lid and fold-up legs allow it to be used as a standalone table-top grill too.
Among the best portable grills for RV travelers who prefer a fixed outdoor cooking station, the Flame King is a clear winner.
Key Features:
- Wall-mount bracket for RV use
- Connects to onboard propane supply
- 214 sq. in. grilling area
Pros:
- Mounts securely to RV
- Uses existing propane system
- Doubles as a tabletop grill
Cons:
- Mounting bracket may require adjustments
- Not as portable as free-standing grills
Final Thoughts
Grilling on the road doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or convenience. The best portable grills for RV travelers bring the joy of outdoor cooking to campsites, tailgates, and remote locations. Whether you prefer the simplicity of propane, the flavor of charcoal, or the technology of pellet grills, there’s a portable model that fits your RV lifestyle.
I’ve had great experiences with every grill on this list, but the Weber Q1200 and Coleman RoadTrip 285 remain personal favorites for their durability and performance. For compact spaces, the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet or Blackstone Griddle offer outstanding versatility. And if you’re after that perfect smoke flavor, the Traeger Ranger is hard to beat.
Choosing the right grill can turn your campsite into a culinary haven. These models truly represent the best portable grills for RV travelers who want to enjoy fresh-cooked meals wherever the road takes them.