Heading off on a camper van adventure opens up a world of culinary possibilities beyond simple sandwiches and cold snacks. With the right cooking kit on board, you can transform laybys, scenic viewpoints, and campsite pitches into open-air dining rooms. Among the most versatile pieces of equipment for any touring enthusiast is a well-chosen portable grill, allowing you to prepare everything from sizzling sausages to grilled vegetables under the open sky. Selecting the ideal model requires balancing size, weight, fuel type, and cooking performance to suit the unique demands of life on the road.
Essential Features to Look for in a Camper Van Grill
When searching for the best portable grills for camper vans, several core characteristics come into play that distinguish a practical option from one that will gather dust in storage. Understanding these features ensures you invest in equipment that genuinely enhances your touring experience rather than complicating it. From dimensions to durability, each aspect matters when space and weight are at a premium.
Compact design and portability considerations
Space inside a motorhome or caravan is precious, so a compact design becomes non-negotiable. Models that fold, collapse, or otherwise reduce their footprint make storage far simpler, whether you are stowing the grill inside the vehicle or securing it in an external compartment. Look for designs that measure between thirty-six and sixty-five centimetres in width, as these dimensions strike a useful balance between cooking capacity and ease of handling. Weight is equally important; lighter models in the five to seven kilogram range are easier to lift and manoeuvre, while heavier options approaching twenty-three kilograms offer greater stability but demand more effort to set up and pack away. Portability extends beyond mere mass; consider grills with locking legs and handles that facilitate safe transport and prevent accidental opening during travel. A grill that is awkward to carry or unstable on uneven ground quickly becomes a frustration rather than a joy.
Fuel options: gas versus charcoal
Choosing between gas and charcoal is one of the most significant decisions you will make when selecting a portable barbecue. Gas grills, typically powered by butane or propane canisters, offer remarkable convenience. They ignite quickly, often within minutes, and provide precise heat control through adjustable burners. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a straightforward cooking process without the wait. Gas models can deliver power outputs ranging from two thousand to five thousand watts, giving you flexibility depending on the complexity of your meals. On the other hand, charcoal grills bring that unmistakable smoky flavour to your food, a quality that many outdoor cooking enthusiasts prize above all else. However, they require more preparation time, as the coals must reach the correct temperature before you can start cooking. Cleaning is also more involved, with ash removal and grate scrubbing necessary after each session. Electric grills present a third option, particularly appealing if you frequent campsites with electrical hook-ups. They eliminate smoke and are easy to operate, though they do tie you to a power source. Some advanced electric models, such as those that can reach two hundred and sixty degrees Celsius, offer impressive performance for those willing to plan their stops around available electricity.
Practical Aspects of Choosing the Right Portable Grill
Beyond the headline features, several practical considerations influence which grill will serve you best over the long term. Cooking space, storage solutions, and the ease with which you can maintain your equipment all play crucial roles in determining whether a purchase proves to be a wise investment or a source of regret.
Cooking space and storage solutions
The cooking area on a portable grill must be sufficient for your typical group size without becoming unwieldy. If you usually cook for two, a smaller surface around thirty-seven centimetres in diameter may suffice, but families or those who enjoy hosting fellow travellers at campsites will benefit from larger cooking surfaces approaching sixty-five centimetres. It is worth noting that some models offer interchangeable cooking surfaces, such as griddle plates or grilling racks, which expand the versatility of a single unit. When the cooking is done, consider how the grill packs away. Designs with removable components, such as drip trays and grease pans, simplify storage and cleaning. Certain models feature clever integrations, including storage trays or bamboo boards that double as prep surfaces, reducing the number of separate items you need to carry. Before committing to a purchase, measure the available storage space in your camper van and compare it against the collapsed dimensions of any grill you are considering. A mismatch here can lead to ongoing inconvenience every time you hit the road.
Maintenance and Durability for Outdoor Adventures
A portable grill for touring must withstand the rigours of travel and outdoor use. Stainless steel construction is a reliable choice, offering heat resistance and resilience against rust and corrosion. Cast aluminium is another durable option, often used in premium models that balance strength with a reduction in overall weight. Pay attention to build quality; flimsy legs or poorly secured lids indicate a product unlikely to last through multiple seasons of use. After each cooking session, cleaning becomes essential to prevent grease build-up and extend the life of your grill. Wire brushes work well on grates while they are still warm, and hot soapy water handles grease trays effectively. For charcoal models, emptying ash before storage prevents moisture from causing rust. If you opt for a gas grill, regular checks of the fuel connections help avoid leaks and ensure safe operation. Always place your grill on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials, and keep a fire extinguisher accessible. Some campsites impose restrictions on charcoal barbecues due to fire risk or smoke concerns, so verify the rules before you arrive. Models that connect directly to your motorhome external gas point offer added convenience, though you must ensure compatibility with the pressure rating, typically thirty or thirty-seven millibar, and the quick release fitting common on UK vans. Storing your grill in a dry location, ideally inside the vehicle or in a sealed compartment with a protective cover, guards against dust and moisture when it is not in use.