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Grilling and RV-ing almost go hand-in-hand on every occasion. When it comes to camping or being on the road, it’s essential that your gear and equipment are reliable. The last thing anyone wants is to pull out their grill and have something break, either delaying their meal or changing plans all together.
To ensure this never happens to you, we’re going to be taking a look at a handful of the best RV grills and help narrow down which is best for you. To make a wise decision, it’s always recommended to do your homework and learn about the model you have your sights on. Luckily, we did our homework so you don’t have to.
For each model on our list, we’re going to be reviewing the main features and what makes them stand out. We know that when it comes down to it, it’s not how it looks, its how it performs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for RV Grills
Quick Comparison of the Best RV Grills
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Things to Consider When Buying a New Grill
"Keep in mind your lifestyle when shopping for a new grill - camping with a model that doesn't match your needs is never enjoyable."
When shopping for a new grill, there are a few things to always keep in mind. If you’re not an avid chef, it can be easy to overlook minor details. To help combat any confusion, let’s discuss some key things to keep in mind while reading.
Fuel Source
Purchasing a new grill is only useful if you know how to operate it and keep it fueled. Before making any executive decisions, review the type of fuel that's required and decide if this fits your lifestyle. Some of the common fuel sources for grills are charcoal, propane, and electric.
Size
This may seem like a no-brainer for some, but if you jump-the-gun and buy a grill that’s too small (or too big) for your RV, you may feel some buyer’s remorse.
To help avoid this, it’s always best to consider where you’ll be storing your grill and the dimensions of that particular space. More common that not, this tiny detail can be overlooked and end up being a major burden in the long-run.
Material
When the subject of material comes into play, we don’t mean how it looks. Yes, it may be shiny, but the durability of your new grill is what matters most.
Popular materials are aluminum, enameled steel, and cast iron. They each carry their own advantage, and as you’ll see, the grills on our list are a mixture.
When thinking about the quality of material, a good rule of thumb is if it looks cheap, it probably is. Be sure to read the review and stick to our pros and cons.
Grate Style
The last consideration is the style of grates that come with the grill. When evaluating grates, you should also think about what you'll be cooking and the weight of that item.
If all you’re cooking are hot dogs and hamburgers, chances are you’re fine with nearly anything. But when the time comes to throw some thick steaks on the grill, will your grates hold up to the job?
Asking yourself these questions ahead of time and considering how you might use the grill in the future can save you time and money.
Willy's Top Picks - Best RV Grills
Here's the top 3 best RV grills:
Review of the Best RV Grills
Now we’re going to transition into the review segment of our article and take a look at some of the models that made our list for the best RV grills.
As previously mentioned, we’re going to be covering the main features of each, then diving into the pros and cons shared by recent buyers.
Best RV Propane Grill:
Coleman Road Trip Propane Portable Grill LXE
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The recent buyers of this product seem to be happy with the overall portability of this grill. Its collapsible design allows you to fit it in your vehicle for easy transport. Other than that, buyers are glad that they don't need a match or lighter to ignite this grill because it has an Insta-start button. The durable make was also appreciated.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the features we like about this grill is the collapsible design. You don't have a lot of room in your RV. So, a grill that won't take up too much space is an excellent option for you, and you don't have to trouble yourself about having matches or a lighter near, either. The Insta-start button makes it easier for you to ignite it when needed.
The first grill on the list and our top pick for the best RV propane grill is the Coleman Road Trip Propane Portable Grill LXE.
This easy to use model is perfect for all experience levels and ideal when it comes to camping, tailgating - whatever you have in mind.
Backed by the trusted, family known, Coleman brand, this dual burner grill allows users to adjust each burner independently for that ‘perfect touch’.
Coleman ensures that anyone can use this model and describes the quick setup in four steps: ‘life, lock, slide, and light’.
This grill is perfect for parties of 3 to 4 people, but can certainly accommodate larger groups; just be sure to allocate cook time properly. Additionally, one of the great features to this model is the built-in collapsible stand with wheels.
The grate is cast-iron and built to last, but also has the ability to be changed out for a griddle.
Now is the time to invest in a model that you know will last you for a number of years. Below are a few other key features worth mentioning though moving forward.
- 285 sq. inches of cooking space
- 20,000 BTUs of power
- Has the ability to interchange cook-tops and switch a grill for a Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Griddle (sold separately)
- One-push ignition - no more matches or need for a lighter
- Collapsible legs make grill easy to move from place to place
Who Will Use This Most
This item is great for anyone looking for a reasonably powerful grill for camping or picnicking purposes. With this device, you'll get 20,000 BTUs of heat on a grilling surface that measures 285 square inches. It's great for small gatherings or RV families. Being highly portable, it's a good option for those who travel a lot.
Bottom Line
This particular propane grill does check a lot of the boxes that make for one of the best RV grills you can opt for. It has an appealing design, and the overall construction is durable. It is easy to move around with, as well as keep clean. It's a reliable option if you're looking for a powerful yet small grill.
The bottom line with the Coleman Road Trip Propane Portable Grill LXE is that this model is easy to use, well built, and performs exactly as expected.
Many buyers report that the grill did take some getting used to when it came to heat displacement, but for the price and efficiency, this grill is hard to beat.
From what buyers had to say, there’s no surprise this model made our list for the best RV propane grill.
Best RV Grill Runner-up:
Blackstone Table Top Grill
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent purchasers of our runner-up grill appear to be happy with what it has to offer. Buyers highly appreciate the overall convenience offered by this device. Users liked that the electric igniter is easy to use. It even has a built-in grease catcher. Furthermore, this model doesn't take up a lot of space, and you can even carry it by hand.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are several reasons why this grill from Blackstone stands out to us. Again, when looking for a grill as an RV owner, portability can't be ignored. Moving around with this device is going to be hassle-free for you. Also, cleaning won't be an issue. You just need to wipe off the top with a paper towel to keep it clean. The 260 square inches of cooking space allows you to prepare several burger patties (or more) in one go.
Last, but certainly not least by any means is the Blackstone Table Top Grill, and our pick for the best RV grill.
Also considered one of Amazon’s Choice models, this grill features a dual action style to cooking where users can grill, clean and wipe away any grease, and continue on with the next meal. This grill is without a doubt, one of the most versatile products on our list.
The innovative design of the H-style burner allows users to receive even heat distribution while cooking.
One of the most loved aspects to this model is the fact that it’s made and designed in the USA.
Due to its size, this grill is a top pick when it comes to packing and storing. For those who are constantly on the road and avid RVers, we know it’s essential that everything has a place and a perfect spot.
- 260 sq. inches of cooking space
- 12,000 BTUs
- Lightweight and portable
- UV treated and weather resistant
- Constructed from 600D Polyester and High Impact Resin
Who Will Use This Most
This is recommended for those who don’t have a lot of space and are interested in using an RV grill that’s easy to carry around. It’s recommended for those looking for a cooking surface with 12,000 BTUs of power. And if you don’t want to spend too much time cleaning a grill, this one might be a good option for you to look into.
Bottom Line
With 12,000 BTUs of power across 260 square inches of cooking surface, this model is a reliable item to have during camping and picnics. You can easily use it to prepare meals for a small or medium-sized family gathering. The best part is the hassle-free cleanup after you're finished with the cooking. Just wipe the surface with a paper towel, and you're done.
When it’s all said and done, the Blackstone TableTop Grill is a superb model and unquestionably our top pick for the best RV grill.
Backed by outstanding features such as a durable and lightweight design, non-stick cooking surface, and zero assembly required, this grill speaks for itself. It’s small and compact, making it an ideal piece of equipment to add to your RV.
Best Portable Grill For RV:
Weber Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A reason recent buyers ended up being satisfied with this grill is because of the small size. It has been reported to be a reliable option for small RV families. Of course, due to the smaller dimensions, it is highly portable. The design is appealing. Customers also liked how easy it is to keep clean. The fact it comes fully assembled was another factor appreciated by buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The small size and the associated portability of this unit have really helped make it stand out for us. With this grill, you'll get a 189 square-inch cooking area that can provide you with 8500 BTU-per-hour. Such power is great for making two to three-person meals in a cooking session. It comes fully assembled, so you won't have to go through wasting any time by reading an assembly manual before being able to use it.
When it comes down to the best portable grill for RV-ing, the Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill speaks for itself.
This sleek and ergonomic grill is ideal for camping and other outdoor excursions. Since it's powered by propane, all you need is a tank and an excuse to grill.
One of the great features is the split-grate design, which is perfect for using the grill and griddle at the same time.
With this, the one-button push ignition is user-friendly and allows anyone to turn it on in seconds. The benefit of this simple design ensures that you never have to worry about matches, a lighter, or the weather fighting against you.
Regardless if you’re a seasoned chef, or some still learning the ropes to grilling, the Weber Q1000 will set you up for success.
- 189 sq. inches of cooking space
- 8500 BTUs of power from one stainless steel burner
- Cast-iron aluminum body
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates
- 5-year warranty for cookbox, lid, burner, cooking grates, and plastic components; 2-year warranty for all other parts
Who Will Use This Most
This particular device is great for those who don't want to build anything. The elderly can easily use it because it comes perfectly assembled out of the box. Other than that, the heating instructions are easy to follow. Due to the small size, storage won't be a problem. It's sure to benefit smaller RV families.
Bottom Line
From grilling bacon to burger patties and vegetables, the 8500 BTUs provided by this item is more than enough for cooking meals for a couple of people. The overall construction features porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates along with a cast-iron aluminum lid and body. It comes fully assembled. Plus, the push-ignition button does away with finding matches or having a lighter nearby.
The bottom line with the Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill is that this model is nearly perfect. Those who’ve experienced this grill firsthand have nothing but good things to say about it's performance.
Not only does it come with an outstanding 5-year warranty (2-year for some parts), but buyers are sure to receive a top-of-the-line grill for an excellent value.
Best Portable Gas Grill for RV:
Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel TableTop Propane Grill
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to recent buyers, this grill has been an excellent investment for them. They liked how easy it has been to use for camping, picnics, and other outdoor needs. The 305 square inches of cooking surface gave buyers a lot of area to prepare their meals on. Also, buyers were appreciative of the durable stainless steel construction. The portability has also been praised.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We do like the appealing design of this grill. On top of that, the impressive stainless steel construction allows it to withstand several weather conditions and gives you the most for the price tag down the line. The design is also quite compact to help with portability and storage. It's a great tabletop grilling unit to consider. The cooking surface is enough for cooking decent-sized meals.
Shopping for a new grill can be stressful and sometimes confusing; luckily, there’s the Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel TableTop Propane Gas Grill to ease your mind. This model is effective and efficient, simple as that.
It features a locking lid to trap heat, as well as folding legs and a carrying handle. Smoke Hollow aims to ensure that their models are straightforward and perfectly tailored to their customers.
The fuel for this unit is propane, which means you can travel with this anywhere and easily grab tanks on-the-go. This grill is intended for those who are avid RVers, love camping, or need a grill that can quickly be setup on a tailgate.
The sleek, stainless steel craftsmanship shines beautifully as it invites users to cook in style. Should anything happen, Smoke Hollow offers a 1-year limited warranty (with the exception of the water bowl). Let’s see what else this unit has to offer then go over the main pros and cons.
- 305 sq. inches of cooking space: 205 sq. inches in the primary compartment; 105 sq. inches in the warming rack
- 10,000 BTUs of power
- Foldable legs make for easy storing and transporting
- Hood locks for secure transitions in-between uses
- Drip tray is also constructed of stainless steel
Who Will Use This Most
Anyone looking for a tabletop grill is going to benefit from this unit. Being such a tabletop model, the portability it offers is impressive. You can easily set it on any flat surface. The foldable legs make for convenient storage. Also, using it is easy. The 10,000 BTUs on the cooking surface is serviceable for some tasty BBQ meals.
Bottom Line
This is one of the highly portable grills you can opt for. The stainless steel construction ensures it can serve you for a very long time. Storing it won’t be an issue because of the size and foldable legs. Cleaning it all up after a cooking session is easy. A stainless steel drip tray keeps the cooking area clean.
The bottom line with the Smoke Hollow 205 Stainless Steel TableTop Propane Gas Grill is that it’s perfect for tailgating, hunting, camping, or any outdoor social you may find yourself hosting.
Propane grills are simple to operate and great for any RV setup. Additionally, all parts on the grill are supported by a 1-year limited warranty.
5. Camco Olympian 5500
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The process of storing this grill away ended up impressing many recent buyers. They liked how it featured a mounting bracket. The said bracket can be used to hang this grill on the RV mounting rail. Also, the folding legs make it perfect for tabletop use. Buyers also liked the safety shut-off valve for preventing any leakage.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You can go ahead and attach this grill to any low-pressure propane supply on your RV. It can also be used on a tabletop because of the folding legs. It gives you 180 square inches of cooking space with 12,000 BTUs of heating power. Storage isn't an issue because of the mounting bracket. There's no assembly required for you to begin using it. Also, the stainless steel construction ensures durability.
The next model on our list is the Camco Olympian 5500 Stainless Steel Portable Grill. This model made our list for the best RV bumper grill and we can’t wait to explain why.
One of the greatest advantages to this grill is that it comes with folding tabletop legs and a mounting bracket for your RV.
With this, you can attach it to your RV’s low pressure propane supply and not have to worry about disposable canisters. The Camco Olympian 5500 is also very easy to setup and straightforward to use.
The stainless steel design makes cleaning a near walk in the park and recent buyers love the safety that comes with this grill.
The unit has a quick connect hose and value that features a safety shut-off valve to inhibit the grill from igniting upon accidental fuel leakage.
Let’s see what else this grill has to offer then review some of the ups and downs according to recent shoppers.
- 180 sq. inches of cooking space
- Output of 12,000 BTUs/hr
- Mounting bracket included
- Safety valve shut-off
- 20,000 starts guaranteed from Piezo electric spark starter
Who Will Use This Most
This grill will be useful for those who want a small yet powerful cooking surface. The 12,000 BTUs of heating power can help lower cooking times. So, this unit is great for anyone who wants to prepare a meal for a small family quickly. With no assembly required, the elderly can conveniently use it as well.
Bottom Line
With secure storage and multiple ways to use, this grill has a lot to offer RV owners. The stainless steel construction helps make it a great investment for those who are on the road. It can withstand numerous harsh weather conditions. The cooking space, while limited compared to most other grills, is still powerful enough to get a meal prepared in less time.
From grilling bacon to burger patties and vegetables, the 8500 BTUs provided by this item is more than enough for cooking meals for a couple of people. The overall construction features porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates along with a cast-iron aluminum lid and body. It comes fully assembled. Plus, the push-ignition button does away with finding matches or having a lighter nearby.
After reviewing the Camco Olympian 5500 Stainless Steel Portable Grill, the bottom line is that this thing is a beast.
Being that it comes ready to install, those who have used it report that it’s user-friendly, heats up with ease, and is very versatile. Additionally, should you run into any problems, rest assured because you're backed by a 1-year warranty.
Our Top Pick for Best RV Bumper Grill Mount: Fleming Sales 52321 Bumper Grill Arm Assembly
If you've decided that the Camco Olympian 5500 Stainless Steel Portable Grill isn’t for you, but you’re still on the hunt for the best RV bumper grill mount, be sure to check out our top pick: the Fleming Sales 52321 Bumper Grill Arm Assembly kit.
Best RV Bumper Grill Mount:
Fleming Sales 52321 Bumper Grill Arm Assembly
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers of this grill mount have shared their opinions about how convenient it made outdoor cooking for them. Attaching this accessory to the bumper of the RV was easy for users. Buyers also liked the overall portability it offered as well as how easy it was to store because of the dimensions. They appreciated it being compatible with a variety of grills.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This grill accessory caught our attention for several reasons. We think it’s a great product to have for those who wish to cook outside their RV. It features 14-gauge steel that is black powder-coated, so you get reliable durability. You can easily mount it on any 4”-measuring box beam RV bumper. The brackets (that are U-shaped) ensure a secure fit. Meanwhile, the two pivot points in the arm will help you keep it safely away from your vehicle.
Who Will Use This Most
This particular grill is a great choice for anyone who likes cooking outdoors. With such an assembly piece, you won't have to worry about finding a flat surface for your grill. It's also an effective option for those who don't wish to prepare a grilling station near the entrance of the RV.
Bottom Line
Having this grill accessory on your RV will allow you to easily create a grilling station for yourself at the back of your vehicle. This will help keep the smoke away from the RV's entrance. Also, you'll be investing in a product that's durable and compatible with a variety of grills. Storing it is easy, and you won't have to worry about cleaning it either.
What Should I Look For When Buying a Grill For My RV?
Before you go ahead and decide to pick up the first RV grill you see online, you should take a breather. For you to make an informed buying decision, you should consider certain factors. Allow us to share them with you.
The Portability and Size
RVs don’t necessarily have a lot of free space. And no one is going to be a fan of a grill that takes up more than you can afford. So, always go over the specifications of the grill and check the measurements. Generally, the smaller it is, the more portable it will be. While checking for portability, see whether or not it is easy to carry around and store when not in use. Depending on the space you have, see if you will benefit from a tabletop grill or one with long legs.
The Cooking Surface & Power
Ask yourself about how much cooking surface you need. Of course, for those with larger families, it's recommended they opt for grills with larger surfaces. However, take note; a larger cooking surface doesn't always mean more power. So, always check the BTUs being offered by the grill. The higher the BTU, the higher the heat you'll have for cooking.
The Durability and Safety
Due to grills being used for cooking outside, the durability matters a lot. Always opt for a model that can face bumps and bruises as well as weather conditions. The said selection should also be safe to use. For example, it shouldn't increase the risk of gas leakage.
The Assembly
Go over how easy it will be for you to assemble the grill you are interested in. As mentioned in our list, some units for RVs do come fully assembled.
Types of Outdoor Grills
Now that we’ve outlined some key aspects, let’s discuss the various types of outdoor grills. You may be thinking that all grills are the same, but that's not the case. Below are a few popular types of outdoor grills.
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills are among the most known grills and are very user-friendly. This style of grilling is not high-tech by any means, it delivers true, authentic flavors.
The advantage to charcoal grills is their massive availability when it comes to purchasing fuel. Although these are super simple, one of the downsides is their messy clean-up and extended prep/cook time.
Electric Grills
Just because they’re electric, doesn’t mean they can’t be used outdoors. Since their inception, these grills have been used by millions to bring simple grilling to any outdoor adventure. Granted, you do need power, but the benefit of using an electric grill is the even burn rate and ease of use.
Though, as you can imagine, the drawback to electric grills is that they do require power. So, if you’re out in the wilderness without electricity, electric grills may not suit you well.
Pellet Grills
Pellet grills are another well-known style of outdoor grills. Considered by some as a full-package, these grills are known to be accurate and very user friendly.
Since pellet grills can also come in electric models, they grant users excellent control and let anyone rise to the occasion and seem like a master chef.
Pellet smokers are known for their ‘set-and-forget’ capability, meaning that once they’re set up, users can thermostatically set the grill and wait till the end.
Portable (Propane) Grills
Conclusion
We hope this this article has helped outline some of the top models available and answered your question of, “what’s the best RV grill?” Each model brings its own unique advantage to any meal, but it’s your duty to decide which is best for you and your lifestyle.
If this review was helpful, be sure to drop a comment below and let us know what stood out to you. Additionally, if this helped you select a model, please come back and let us know about your overall experience while using that model.
For more RV related review articles, be sure to visit our friends over at RV Expertise for all your RV related questions. They know RVs and are there to lend a helping hand when you’re on the hunt for some new equipment. Happy grilling!
People Also Ask
It's time for us to answer some of the frequently asked questions you might have about using grills as an RV owner. We hope the answers we provide can help you make the most of the model you end up purchasing.
How Do You Monitor the Temperature of a Grill?
Most modern grills do come with a thermometer. However, if you want to monitor the temperature without one, there is a way to do so. You'll need to check with your hand. You have to hold your hand almost five inches above the grill. Now, it all comes down to how long you can keep your hand there comfortably.
Being able to hold for 5-6 seconds means your grill is near 250-degrees (low heat). For 3-4 seconds means about 350-degrees (medium heat), and 1 second is 450-degrees to 500-degrees (high heat).
Are Stainless Steel Grill Grates Better?
Yes, stainless steel grill grates are deemed to be better than some other alternatives. They are resistant to corrosion and rust. They’re also easy to keep clean compared to other types. Also, cooking food on such grates means the said meals won’t stick to the grates as much.
Should You Cover a Stainless Steel Grill?
Yes, it is recommended that you keep grills covered, especially stainless steel ones. We say this because covering them helps with keeping them in good condition for years to come. It prevents corrosive agents from affecting them. Also, always remember only to cover the grills after they have cooled down.
Is it Safe to Cook on a Rusty Grill?
Of course, it isn't safe to cook on a rusty grill. Loose rust on a grill isn't safe for us. It can stick to the food being cooked and cause harm to the intestinal tract. Now, grates with minor rust can be cleaned and used again. However, if there's too much rust, throw it away.
Do You Clean a Grill After Every Use?
Yes, you should clean a grill after every use. It does feel like a lot of work, but you and your family's health is at risk if you don't. Some grills are very easy to clean, while others need more effort. You should remember to brush the grates as well as keep the entire grill as clean as possible until your next cooking session.