7 Best RV Grills For Every Outdoor Cooking Setup
Find the perfect RV grill for your travels. We review 7 top models, comparing portability, fuel types, and cooking power to suit every outdoor kitchen setup.
Nothing defines the rhythm of life on the road quite like the smell of a hot grill wafting through the campground at sunset. While your RV kitchen is functional, the ability to cook outdoors transforms a cramped living space into an expansive open-air dining room. Choosing the right grill is the difference between a seamless meal and a frustrating, smoke-filled afternoon.
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Weber Q1200: The Best Portable Gas Grill
The Weber Q1200 is the gold standard for a reason: it is remarkably reliable, easy to clean, and built to survive the vibrations of the road. Its porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates provide excellent heat retention, which is essential for getting a proper sear on a steak or burger.
This grill is ideal for the RVer who wants a "set it and forget it" experience without complex assembly. If you prioritize consistency and long-term durability over fancy bells and whistles, this is the unit for you. It’s a workhorse that fits perfectly on most picnic tables or dedicated grill stands.
Blackstone 17-Inch Tabletop Griddle
If your idea of a perfect breakfast involves pancakes, bacon, and eggs all on one surface, the Blackstone 17-inch griddle is your best friend. Unlike a traditional grill, this flat-top surface offers incredible versatility for stir-fries, smash burgers, and fajitas.
Because it’s a griddle, you don’t have to worry about flare-ups from dripping fat, which makes it much easier to manage in tight campsites. It is compact enough to stow in a basement storage compartment, making it a top-tier choice for those who want restaurant-quality versatility without the bulk.
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Grill
Grill up to 20,000 BTUs with three independently adjustable burners for precise temperature control on a 285 sq. in. cooking surface. Features Instastart ignition for easy lighting and quick-fold legs with wheels for effortless setup and portability.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is the ultimate "all-in-one" solution for families who need a grill that can handle a crowd. Its standout feature is the integrated stand with wheels, which allows you to roll it out and set it up in seconds without straining your back.
The three independently adjustable burners give you precise control, allowing you to cook different items at different temperatures simultaneously. If you have the storage space to accommodate its footprint, the convenience of the built-in stand makes this the most user-friendly option on the list.
Napoleon TravelQ PRO285X Performance
Grill anywhere with the Napoleon TravelQ PRO285X portable propane grill. Its integrated foldable scissor cart offers easy transport and setup, perfect for tailgating or camping, while two burners provide ample space to cook up to 17 burgers.
For the gourmet RVer who refuses to compromise on quality, the Napoleon TravelQ PRO285X is a revelation. It features a high-top lid that allows for roasting whole chickens or larger cuts of meat, which is a rare capability in a portable unit.
The scissor-cart design makes it incredibly stable while cooking and surprisingly compact when folded down. If you are serious about outdoor culinary techniques and want a grill that performs as well as your high-end home unit, this is the investment you should make.
Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Grill
Grill delicious meals anywhere with the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill. Its VersaStand base easily converts from tabletop to freestanding, while the 5,500 BTU burner and porcelain-enameled grate provide even cooking for up to 8 burgers.
Space is the ultimate currency in small-living, and the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet is designed specifically for those who are truly short on storage. It is ultra-lightweight and features folding legs, allowing it to tuck into the smallest corner of your RV’s exterior bay.
Despite its diminutive size, it provides enough surface area to feed two people comfortably. If you are a solo traveler or a couple living in a van or small teardrop trailer, this grill offers the best balance of utility and space-saving design.
Pit Boss Sportsman Portable Pellet Grill
For those who crave the authentic flavor of wood-fired smoke, the Pit Boss Sportsman brings the backyard pellet smoker experience to the campsite. It is a heavier unit, but the trade-off is the ability to smoke, bake, and grill with real wood pellets.
This grill is perfect for the RVer who enjoys slow-cooking ribs or brisket while spending the day at the campsite. It requires an electrical hookup, so it is best suited for those who frequent established campgrounds with power pedestals rather than off-grid boondockers.
Camco Olympian 5500 RV Gas Grill
The Camco Olympian 5500 is unique because it is designed to mount directly to your RV’s exterior rail, saving you from having to carry a separate table. It taps directly into your RV’s low-pressure propane supply, meaning you never have to worry about running out of small green canisters.
This is the perfect choice for the minimalist who wants to eliminate extra gear and simplify their setup. It’s not the largest grill, but the convenience of a permanent, rail-mounted solution is unmatched for long-term travelers.
Key Factors for Choosing Your RV Grill
When selecting your grill, you must balance your cooking style against your available storage space. Consider these three critical factors:
- Weight and Portability: Can you move it easily without help? If a grill is too heavy, it will stay in your storage bay and never get used.
- Fuel Source: Do you want the convenience of a quick-connect hose to your RV’s propane tank, or do you prefer the flexibility of portable 1-pound bottles?
- Cooking Surface: Are you mostly grilling meats, or do you need a flat top for breakfast and vegetable dishes?
Essential Propane and Fuel Safety Tips
Safety is non-negotiable when working with fire in a mobile environment. Always ensure your grill is positioned on a level, non-combustible surface and kept at least 10 feet away from your RV’s siding and slide-outs.
Never store extra propane canisters inside your living area; they should always be kept in an exterior, well-ventilated storage compartment. Regularly check your hoses for cracks or leaks using a soapy water solution, especially after long periods of travel where vibrations can loosen connections.
Cleaning and Storing Your RV Grill
A clean grill is a long-lasting grill. After every use, brush your grates while they are still warm to prevent carbon buildup, and wipe down the exterior to keep grease from attracting pests.
Before hitting the road, ensure the grill is completely cool and the propane supply is disconnected. If you are using a tabletop grill, invest in a heavy-duty storage bag to protect both the grill and your RV’s interior from residual grease and soot.
The perfect RV grill isn’t just about the food; it’s about reclaiming the outdoors as your primary kitchen. Choose a model that aligns with your storage capacity and cooking habits, and you’ll find that every meal becomes a highlight of your journey. Happy grilling, and enjoy the view from your new favorite patio.
