When it comes to outdoor cooking, or cooking in smaller spaces, by its nature a portable barbecue offers the flexibility to grill just about anywhere. But what do you need to look for in the perfect portable BBQ?
What is a Portable Barbecue?
Portable barbecues are smaller and designed to be taken, easily, wherever you go. Perhaps that’s the beach or to a friend’s house, or impromptu camping in the wilderness. They come with a range of specialist features to make BBQing on the go easy, and are available in both gas or charcoal varieties.
Charcoal or Gas?
It’s an age-old question, whether portable or not. And people have been arguing over this point since gas grills became available.
Perhaps there’s something authentic about fire and the great outdoors? Perhaps the reality is that it’s just more convenient to set up and turn on your grill when you’re on the go?
Charcoal portable grills are the traditional choice, giving the authentic experience and smoky flavour that traditionalists love. They offer that classic BBQ taste and tend to be more affordable. Charcoal grills also have a simple design, making them reliable and easy to use once you get the hang of it.
Gas grills are the go-to option for quick and convenient grilling.
Charcoal takes longer to heat up and requires cleaning after due to ash. If temperature control is important, it can be a bit tricky with charcoal. Gas heats up faster and offers consistent temperature control. They can be bulkier because of propane tanks.
What about Electric?
Electric portable grills are perfect if you want a no-fuss grilling experience, and are perfect for balconies where gas or charcoal would be a problem.
What to Consider
When choosing the right portable barbecue think about which features are most important for your lifestyle:
- · Think about where you’ll be using it the most. This will best dictate what you need.
- · Think about the size of your typical gatherings. Do you mostly grill for just two people, or do you need to feed a larger group? Small, compact grills are perfect for personal use or small families, while larger models are better suited for bigger groups and longer cooking sessions.
- · Portability is key for any BBQ you plan to take on the go. The lighter, the better—especially if you’ll be carrying it to different locations. Look for grills with handles, foldable legs, or built-in wheels for easy transportation, especially for camping. You might want to be leaving the smoker box behind.
- · Consider the type of fuel that’s easiest for you to access or take with you. Charcoal is widely available but can be messy; propane offers convenience but requires carrying a tank; electric needs an outlet, limiting its use in remote areas.
- · Pay attention to the materials. Portability means you want it to be lightweight. Stainless steel or cast-iron components can last longer and offer better heat distribution. Importantly, look for grills that can withstand tough outdoor conditions like rain and wind, especially if you plan to leave them outside or use them in rugged environments.
- · How easy is it to set up and put away your grill? Choose a model that you can quickly assemble, especially if you’re grilling on the go.
- · Cleanup can make or break your BBQ experience, so look for features like removable grill plates, ash catchers, or drip trays that simplify the cleaning process.
Extra Features?
Beyond the basics, some additional features can make your grilling experience even better.
Gas grills with precise knobs for temperature control can make it easier to cook a variety of foods at the perfect heat. For charcoal grills, look for adjustable air vents. A lid with a good venting system helps control the heat and can make a portable grill more versatile, allowing you to slow-cook meats or smoke foods.
And don’t overlook useful accessories like side shelves, fold-out stands and the right cooking tools. They can make outdoor grilling easier and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right portable barbecue comes down to matching it with your specific circumstances. From the type of fuel to how easy it is to transport and maintain. But whether you’re a charcoal purist or need the convenience of a gas grill, there’s a portable BBQ out there that fits your lifestyle. So, next time you head out your barbecue will be ready to cook up a feast wherever you are.
