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10 Best Portable Charcoal Grills For Camping 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#3

Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Premium Wood Shelf and Damper Control, 250 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E1515

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material

Most important from
4651 reviews

Size
Its size perfectly suits small families or one to two people, offering enough space to grill multiple steaks or even a small turkey with ease.
Weight
Assembly is straightforward and manageable by anyone willing to take their time, despite the grill’s heavier weight.
Material
Sturdy construction and easy maintenance make this grill an excellent choice for small groups seeking quality and reliability.
Ease of Assembly
Assembly is straightforward and manageable by anyone willing to take their time, despite the grill’s heavier weight.
Portability Features
Wheels and a wood handle aid portability, though the wheel placement can feel awkward when moving the grill.

The Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is a solid choice for those looking for a portable yet sturdy grill for small outdoor spaces like patios or camping trips. It offers a decent cooking area of 250 square inches, enough to grill food for a small group. The grill is made from heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish, which helps with durability and weather resistance. Its cast iron grates are a big plus since they hold heat well, giving your food good grill marks and flavor.

Weighing 50 pounds, it isn't the lightest grill out there, so while it has wheels and a wood handle that make moving it easier, it’s best suited for short-distance portability rather than backpack camping. The barrel shape and side air vent allow you to control airflow for better heat management, which is important for consistent cooking. Assembly is straightforward and cleanup is simple thanks to the easy dump ash pan. A convenient wood shelf and storage rack provide extra workspace and places to keep your grilling tools handy.

The grill’s size and weight might be cumbersome if you need something ultra-compact. It also doesn’t come with a cover included, which could be a downside if you want to protect it from the elements without buying extra accessories. This grill suits campers or outdoor cooks who want a reliable, medium-sized charcoal grill that balances portability with solid build quality and good cooking performance.

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material

Most important from
4651 reviews

Size
Its size perfectly suits small families or one to two people, offering enough space to grill multiple steaks or even a small turkey with ease.
Weight
Assembly is straightforward and manageable by anyone willing to take their time, despite the grill’s heavier weight.
Material
Sturdy construction and easy maintenance make this grill an excellent choice for small groups seeking quality and reliability.
Ease of Assembly
Assembly is straightforward and manageable by anyone willing to take their time, despite the grill’s heavier weight.
Portability Features
Wheels and a wood handle aid portability, though the wheel placement can feel awkward when moving the grill.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Charcoal Grills For Camping

Choosing the right portable charcoal grill for camping can greatly enhance your outdoor cooking experience. When selecting a grill, consider factors such as size, weight, ease of use, and cooking performance. The right grill should be easy to transport, simple to set up, and capable of cooking your favorite meals efficiently. Here are some key specifications to consider when making your choice.
SizeThe size of the grill is crucial because it determines how much food you can cook at once and how easy it is to transport. Smaller grills are more portable and easier to carry, making them ideal for solo campers or small groups. Larger grills offer more cooking space, which is great for bigger groups but can be more cumbersome to transport. Consider the number of people you will be cooking for and how much space you have in your vehicle or backpack.
WeightWeight is an important factor, especially if you plan to hike to your camping spot. Lightweight grills are easier to carry and handle, but they may sacrifice some durability and cooking space. Heavier grills are often more robust and offer more cooking area but can be challenging to transport. Think about how far you need to carry the grill and balance portability with durability.
MaterialThe material of the grill affects its durability, heat retention, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum. Stainless steel is durable and resistant to rust, making it a good choice for outdoor use. Cast iron retains heat well and provides even cooking but is heavier and requires more maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust but may not be as durable as other materials. Choose a material that fits your needs for durability, weight, and maintenance.
Cooking SurfaceThe cooking surface determines how much food you can cook at once and the type of cooking you can do. Grills with larger cooking surfaces allow you to cook more food simultaneously, which is useful for feeding larger groups. Smaller cooking surfaces are more compact and easier to transport but limit the amount of food you can cook at one time. Consider the size of your group and the types of meals you plan to prepare when choosing the cooking surface size.
VentilationProper ventilation is essential for controlling the temperature and ensuring efficient burning of charcoal. Grills with adjustable vents allow you to regulate airflow, which helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures and prevents flare-ups. Look for grills with well-designed ventilation systems that are easy to adjust and provide good control over the cooking process. If you plan to cook a variety of foods, having adjustable vents can be very beneficial.
Ease of AssemblyEase of assembly is important for convenience and quick setup, especially when camping. Some grills come fully assembled, while others require some setup. Grills that are easy to assemble and disassemble can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus more on cooking and enjoying your camping experience. Look for grills with clear instructions and minimal parts to make assembly straightforward.
Portability FeaturesPortability features such as foldable legs, carrying handles, and compact design can make transporting the grill easier. Grills with foldable legs can be packed more compactly, while carrying handles make it easier to move the grill from one place to another. Consider how you will transport the grill and look for features that enhance portability and convenience.

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