5 Best Folding Grills – A Compact and Portable Solution for BBQ Fans

By
Jeremy Bivens
Jeremy Bivens
Research Writer
Jeremy Bivens is a passionate writer and grilling enthusiast. He's been working as a freelance journalist for over 15 years now and has a particular interest in food writing read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Bruce Williams
Bruce Williams
Expert Consultant
Claims that grilling is the art that he has been learning all his life long and is not planning to stop. Has been grilling for as long as he can remember. Author of numerous read more
Last updated: September 02, 2023
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Are you tired of searching for a portable grill that will cater to all your wishes? A folding frill is a perfect answer. These grills are compact enough to take with you anywhere, don’t take up much space while you use them, and offer mouth-watering results for a small group of people when you just don’t need a bigger grill. However, are the features to look for in the best folding grills the same as in their bigger counterparts? Let’s find out!

Each folding grill that we have included in this list has been analyzed by us on the basis of several important factors. You should decide on the type of grill and its required fuel beforehand so that you can narrow down your choices. The cooking area will determine how much you can cook at a time and for how many people. The material of the grate will dictate how easy it is to clean the grill once you are done cooking. And finally, the portability of a grill depends on its weight and foldability features.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Coleman RoadTrip 285
    "A folding grill that is not too small and comes with advanced features to make grilling easier. 285 sq. in cooking area. 3 adjustable burners. Up to 20,000 BTU."
  • Best Folding Camping Grill: Cuisinart CGG-240
    "A grill large enough to cook for five people and more, with handy fold-out side shelves. 240 sq. in cooking area. Single 12,000 BTU burner. Twist-to-start ignition."
  • Biggest Folding Grill: Camp Chef Big Gas Grill
    "The biggest grill on our list that, nonetheless, helps you save space thanks to its folding design. 608 sq. in cooking area. Pre-seasoned cast iron grates. 3 burners with 90,000 total BTU."
  • Best Folding Tailgate Grill: Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
    "A mid-size grill with two folding work tables and porcelain-coated cast iron grates. 189 in cooking area. Infinite control burner valve. 8,500 BTU."
  • "The only charcoal grill on our list, with a notebook design that folds flat to just 1 inch. 228 sq. in cooking space. Lightweight 8-pound design. High-heat-resistant painted steel."

Top 5 Folding Grills Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2051 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.9
1
Editor’s Choice

Coleman RoadTrip 285

Features
  • Fuel: liquid propane
  • Cooking area: 285 sq. in
  • Grate material: porcelain-coated cast iron
  • Dimensions: 30.25 x 19.19 x 16.13 in
  • Weight: 46.7 lbs

More features: up to 20,000 BTU; 3 adjustable burners; quick-fold legs and wheels; integrated thermometer; swappable cooktops; 3-year warranty

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is the best folding BBQ grill on our list, and it has earned its top position through merit. Offering up to 20,000 total BTUs of grilling power, this folding grill will allow you to cook almost any dish. It comes with three adjustable burners, which means that you will be able to cook multiple dishes at a time. With the improved burner technology, you can get your cooking done faster and more efficiently. You will be able to change the temperature accurately, since the grill offers precise adjustments.

The grill has an enormous grilling area of 285 square inches that will allow you to cook for many people simultaneously. However, storing it will not be an issue at all because of its easily folding design. The quick-fold legs are sturdy, and the wheels enhance the portability of the grill. There are convenient side shelves accompanied by stainless-steel inserts that will help you store all your cooking equipment.

The grill has an integrated thermometer that will allow for accurate temperature monitoring. If you prefer matchless lighting, you will appreciate the push-button ignition. The swappable cooktops will give you a lot of flexibility. The cast iron grill grates can be replaced with griddles or stove grates if you want more meal options.

    What stands out?
  • Advanced burner technology
  • Easy to transport
  • Three adjustable temperature zones allow for precise grilling temperatures
  • Matchless lighting with the Instastart ignition button
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Taking out the water tray can be tricky
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4578 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
2
Best Folding Camping Grill

Cuisinart CGG-240

Features
  • Fuel: liquid propane
  • Cooking area: 240 sq. in
  • Grate material: enamel cast iron
  • Dimensions: 23.5 x 38 x 27.3 in
  • Weight: 45 lbs

More features: single 12,000 BTU stainless-steel burner; built-in thermometer; foldable cart with wheels

The Cuisinart CGG-240 is easily one of the best folding camping grills because it is large enough to cook for more than five people. It comes with a 13.5-by-18-inch enamel cast iron grate that is easy to clean. The grill features a single 12,000 BTU burner that can withstand up to 600 degrees F. It’s also portable with a foldable cart with wheels, and you can set up this grill in 25 minutes.

The All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill will accommodate all your grilling when you are hosting a small party. You just have to turn the control in order to ignite the grill. The enamel-coated grate in the Cuisinart Everyday grill is able to handle a lot of food without occupying a lot of patio space. The folding design of the grill makes it perfect for traveling.

The grill comes with a precision temperature gauge so that you can how hot it gets at all times. There are two side shelves made with stainless steel, where you can store your cooking tools and condiments. Storing the grill in your house will not be an issue because you can simply fold it up once it has cooled down. You can cook fresh vegetables, pizza, meats, seafood, and more delicious dishes with the help of this grill. The 240-square-inch surface of the grill will never leave you lacking.

    What makes it special?
  • Double-wall stainless steel cover allows for even distribution of heat
  • Portable but large grilling space
  • Twist Start electric ignition
  • Easy temperature controls
    What cons did we find?
  • Not very durable
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8105 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.6
3
Biggest Folding Grill

Camp Chef Big Gas Grill

Features
  • Fuel: liquid propane
  • Cooking area: 608 sq. in
  • Grate material: pre-seasoned cast iron
  • Dimensions: 15.8 x 24 x 7 in
  • Weight: 85 lbs (total)

More features: 90,000 total BTU; 3 burners; removable leveling legs; folding side shelf; heat diffusion system

The Camp Chef Big Gas Grill offers a complete outdoor cooking system. It is one of the best folding grills for a large gathering because the massive cooking surface area of 608 square inches will allow you to cook for many people at the same time.

The matchless ignition is convenient and safe. The grill has three cast aluminum burners totaling 90,000 total BTU, so that grilling multiple dishes is an available option. Since the grill is foldable, it comes with detachable legs. You will have no problem storing this even if you have limited space.

If you are a beginner, you should take it slow with this grill. The powerful 30,000 BTU burners will give you a lot of room to experiment so that you can expand your cooking skills. You will also receive a variety of accessories that will allow you to become a master. Keep all your tools and condiments in the folding shelf when you are cooking.

The grill comes with a specially designed heat diffusion system as well as a pre-seasoned cast iron grill grate so that you can start cooking as soon you take the grill out of the box. Whether you want to sear, grill or barbeque, this product will do the job.

    Why is it special?
  • Matchless ignition is easy and convenient
  • Easy to store because of removable/adjustable legs
  • Fully adjustable heat-control knobs
  • Huge cooking surface and comes with accessories
    What are the flaws?
  • Difficult to clean
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4993 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.5
4
Best Folding Tailgate Grill

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill

Features
  • Fuel: liquid propane
  • Cooking area: 189 sq. in
  • Grate material: porcelain-coated cast iron
  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 40.9 x 15.5 in
  • Weight: 31 lbs

More features: 8,500 BTU; two folding work tables; cast aluminum body; 5-year warranty

Weber Q1200 combines great performance with a sophisticated appearance. This grill comes with a bigger grip handle and easy to use control knobs. The side handles are ergonomic, so that you face no problem in gripping. The front and rear cradles are sturdy, and there are big fold-out side tables where you can store all your tools and condiments.

The grill comes with split grates so that you can have a grate/griddle cooking combination if you want. You can substitute any of the grates with a compatible griddle, and you will be good to go. You will also appreciate the large built-in thermometer that will allow you to keep an eye on the cooking temperature. Try to be as precise as possible so that your food is not overcooked or undercooked.

The design of this grill is durable but lightweight enough to be portable. The cast-aluminum construction makes it one of the best folding tailgate grills. The electronic ignition guarantees easy start every time.

With this grill, you will be able to cook a variety of steaks, chops, hotdogs, burgers, and more. If you can master the temperature control, you will open up your grilling world to even more recipes. The stainless-steel burner will give you 8500 BTU-per-hour, and that is sufficient to heat up the 189 square-inch cooking area.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Infinite control burner valve and easy-start electronic ignition settings
  • Lightweight cast aluminum construction
  • Big cooking area
  • Accurate temperature controls
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Wears down quickly if not maintained
Also Product Ranking:
Read full review: weber q1200
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5004 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.3
Features
  • Fuel: charcoal
  • Cooking area: 228 sq. in
  • Grate material: steel
  • Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 13 in
  • Weight: 8 lbs

More features: folds flat to 1 in; 1-year warranty

If you are on the hunt for the best folding charcoal grill, then this Fire Sense model is definitely a product that you should consider.

This mini grill uses charcoal as fuel and hence comes with a charcoal rack and a grill rack. You can fold this charcoal BBQ grill to ensure easy storage and portability. Made with high-heat-resistant painted steel, this grill can withstand really high temperatures.

It is also ideal for your backyard grilling parties and tailgating. The sleek and lightweight design makes this grill appear sophisticated, and it can turn into its own carrying case.

Setting up this grill is just a two-step process, which is convenient when you are on the road. You can also keep it in your outdoor living space for easy access.

The grill stands measures 13-inches in height but can be folded to a 1-inch flat within seconds. Charcoal grills do not get more perfect than this. You will have access to 228 square inches of cooking area, and that should be sufficient for cooking an entire meal in one go. The chrome-plated grill rack is durable and can be fit inside the grill alongside the charcoal rack for easy cleaning.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Made with high-heat-resistant painted steel
  • Lightweight and highly portable
  • Easy to set up and clean
  • Perfect for camping and tailgating
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Quality of construction could be better

Things to Consider

If you are confused about which of these folding grills to get, then we hope that this buying guide will help you make the right choice.

Reasons to get a folding grill

5 Best Folding Grills – A Compact and Portable Solution for BBQ FansFolding grills are easy to store, and hence they are perfect if you do not have much living space. Moreover, they tend to be lightweight and can be carried from one place to another easily. You can take them with you on your camping trips, and enjoy grilling with your loved ones. Folding grills can now cook almost everything that you can cook on a regular grill, so you will not be missing out. They are also simpler to clean.

Features to consider while choosing a grill

In order to get the best value for your money, it is important that you take certain features into consideration when choosing your folding grill.

Fuel

The type of fuel that you want to use in your grill is something you should decide early on. You can either go for a charcoal grill like the Fire Sense Folding Notebook Portable Grill, or a gas grill like the Coleman RoadTrip 285.

If you prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal in your cooking, you should go for charcoal grills that offer higher temperatures. You will get crispy sears on your meat. On the other hand, gas grills are less messy and much easier to use. They fire up immediately and offer an even temperature when you are cooking.

Cooking area

5 Best Folding Grills – A Compact and Portable Solution for BBQ FansWhen you are buying a folding grill, make sure that you are satisfied with the cooking area it offers. Unless you have sufficient cooking area, you will not be able to cook enough quantity to suit your purpose. If you know that you will be feeding a lot of people on the regular, it makes sense to opt for a grill with a large cooking area like the Camp Chef Big Gas Grill. On the other hand, if you know that you will be cooking for a limited number of people, go for a smaller grill like the Cuisinart CGG-240.

Remember that the cooking area will be impacted by the number of burners, so that is also something you should check before making your purchase. If you want the flexibility of cooking multiple dishes at the same time, then you should opt for a grill with multiple burners like the Coleman RoadTrip 285.

Size, weight and portability

Folding grills stand out from the rest because of their portability and ease of storage. They usually come with detachable or foldable legs and can be stored in any small corner. Since they are mostly lightweight and small in size, it is not much of a hassle to carry them from one place to another. Some models like the Coleman RoadTrip 285 even have wheels to increase portability. You will find that it is much easier to carry a folding grill with you when you are camping or tailgating.

Grates

The material with which the grates are made has an impact on their resistance and how easy it is to clean the grill. Stainless steel grates are able to resist rust and do not fall prey to hard-weather corrosion. On the other hand, porcelain-enameled grates can protect the steel skeleton from heat damage and rust.

Ease of use

One of the main reasons why everyone loves folding grills is that they are convenient and easy to use. Hence, you should opt for a grill that can set up within minutes and can be operated without any trouble. Matchless ignition and temperature gauges are two important user-friendly features that you should keep an eye out for.

FAQ

Can I use folding grill outside even in bad weather conditions?

Yes, you can cook in bad weather conditions as long as you follow some basic precautions. You can re-position your cooking area to avoid wind gusts. Avoid cooking inside and anything else which could present a fire hazard. Keep some extra fuel at hand. Ceramic cookware is ideal for heat retention.

Can I use a grill on my balcony?

Ideally, you should not use your grill on your balcony, but every area has different grilling restrictions, so you should check them out. Electric grills are the safest to use on a balcony. Both charcoal and propane grills pose significant risks.

Our verdict

All the folding grills on our list deserve your attention, but we have narrowed down our top three picks for you.

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill runs on liquid propane and is extremely flexible. The grill offers a decent cooking area of 285 square inches and three adjustable burners so that you can customize it every time based on your wishes. The lightweight construction and quick-fold legs and wheels make it highly portable.

The Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill offers a cooking area of 240 square inches and uses liquid propane as fuel. The enamel cast iron grate is easy to clean, and the chore will not take up much of your time. The single 12,000 BTU stainless-steel burner will give you even cooking, and you can control the temperature with the built-in thermometer.

The Camp Chef Big Gas Grill comes with a massive cooking area of 608 square inches, which makes it ideal for parties. With three burners offering 90,000 BTU in total and a heat diffusion system, this one does not disappoint.

Which one did you pick from our list of the best folding grills?

9,9
Total Score
Coleman RoadTrip 285 - Editor’s Choice
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