Top Propane Camping Grills That Fit in Your Car Trunk
When I plan a camping trip, one of my top priorities is ensuring that all my gear fits comfortably in my car trunk. A compact propane camping grill is essential for enjoying delicious meals without sacrificing space. After researching and testing various models, I’ve compiled a list of the best propane grills that are both portable and efficient.
Table of Contents
Weber Q1200 Portable Gas Grill
The Weber Q1200 is a compact yet powerful grill, delivering 8,500 BTUs over a 189 square inch cooking surface. Its dimensions are approximately 40.9 x 16.5 x 15.5 inches, and it weighs around 31 pounds, making it easy to fit in most car trunks. The grill features porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates and a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control.
Weber Traveler Portable Propane Gas Grill
The Weber Traveler is designed for those who want a full-size grilling experience in a portable package. It offers 13,000 BTUs and a generous 320 square inch cooking area. Despite its larger size, it folds down compactly to fit in most car trunks, with dimensions of 43.6 x 23 x 17.6 inches and a weight of 49 pounds.
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 offers versatility with three adjustable burners and a collapsible design for easy transport. Its 285 square inch cooking area and 20,000 BTUs of grilling power make it suitable for family camping trips. When folded, it measures approximately 32.1 x 19.1 x 12.6 inches, fitting comfortably in most car trunks.
Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill
The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is a rugged, compact grill perfect for camping. It features 9,500 BTUs and a 200 square inch cooking surface. Its dimensions are 23.7 x 15 x 13.6 inches, and it weighs just 20 pounds, making it highly portable and easy to store in your car trunk.
Camplux Portable Gas Grill
The Camplux Portable Gas Grill offers 10,000 BTUs and a 189 square inch cooking area. Its compact size of 16.56 x 9.5 x 6.88 inches and lightweight design make it ideal for campers with limited space. The grill features foldable legs and a locking lid for secure transport.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right propane camping grill that fits in your car trunk can enhance your outdoor cooking experience without compromising on space. Each of these grills offers a balance of portability, power, and cooking area to suit various camping needs. Consider your specific requirements and preferences to select the perfect grill for your adventures.
Happy camping and grilling!
Easy to Fit, Easy to Forget (Until You Need It)
One thing I love about these propane camping grills is how they disappear into the trunk. They don’t take over the car like some bulky gear. I always tuck mine next to the cooler or sleeping bags and forget it’s even there—until it’s time to eat.
Quick Setup at Any Campsite
When I roll into a new site, I don’t want to waste time fiddling with tools. I look for grills with foldable legs and compact designs that pop up in seconds. The faster the setup, the faster I get to grilling, and that’s exactly what these models offer.
Lightweight but Powerful
Just because a grill is small enough to fit in the trunk doesn’t mean it can’t pack a punch. Many of these compact propane grills offer 8,000 to 20,000 BTUs, enough to cook for 2 to 5 people comfortably. I’ve even cooked full dinners on the Weber Q1200 without a hitch.
Handles and Latches Matter More Than You Think
What separates a good travel grill from a frustrating one? For me, it’s all about the built-in handles and locking latches. They make carrying and storing the grill clean, safe, and effortless. The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is great for that.
Built Tough for All Terrains
From rocky campsites to sandy beach parking lots, these portable propane grills are built to handle rough conditions. I’ve dragged my grill over gravel, dropped it once or twice, and it still works like a champ. You don’t need babying gear in the wild.
Space Saving Without Sacrificing Flavor
I was worried that downsizing to a car trunk-friendly grill would mean losing flavor. I was wrong. With good burners and cast-iron grates, I get that same smoky charred finish I’d get at home. Even steaks come out juicy and perfectly seared.
Great for Apartment Dwellers Too
I don’t just camp with these grills—I use them on my small apartment patio. Because they’re compact and easy to store, these small propane grills work great for people without a lot of space at home. No need to haul out a giant backyard BBQ.
Ideal for Last-Minute Road Trips
Sometimes I don’t plan a trip—I just go. And having a grill that fits in my trunk makes those spontaneous adventures so much easier. I keep a small propane tank ready to go, and with a grill like the Camplux, I’m cooking in no time.
Propane is Cleaner and Quicker
I used charcoal for years, but propane changed everything. These compact propane grills heat up in minutes, cool down fast, and don’t leave behind messy ashes. That means less cleanup and more time enjoying the view.
Better Than Campfire Cooking (Most of the Time)
Sure, I love a good campfire, but sometimes I just want to grill without the hassle. When I’m tired or short on daylight, I rely on my car trunk-sized grill to cook fast, evenly, and safely—especially when campfires are restricted.
Most Models Work With 1lb or 20lb Tanks
What’s cool is that most of these portable grills are compatible with both 1 lb propane tanks and 20 lb adapters, giving me flexibility. If I’m on a short trip, I go light. On a longer camping weekend, I bring a bigger tank and cook as much as I want.
Affordable and Long-Lasting
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a compact grill that fits in your car and lasts for years. The models I’ve listed are all under $400, and many under $150. With stainless steel builds and strong burners, they’ve proven their worth trip after trip.