Affordable Propane Grills for Camping Under $100
When I venture into the great outdoors, whether it’s a weekend camping trip or a spontaneous picnic, having a reliable and affordable propane grill is essential. Over the years, I’ve tested various models that combine portability, efficiency, and value—all without breaking the bank. If you’re in the market for a portable propane grill under $100, here’s a curated list based on personal experience and thorough research.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison Table
| Grill | Cooking Area | BTUs | Weight | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman Fold ‘N Go | 105 sq in | 6,000 | 10 lbs | $89.99 | ★★★★☆ |
| Cuisinart Grillster | 146 sq in | 8,000 | 10 lbs | $99.99 | ★★★★☆ |
| Camplux Tabletop | 189 sq in | 10,000 | 20 lbs | $99.99 | ★★★★☆ |
| Char-Broil Portable | 190 sq in | 11,000 | 10 lbs | $99.99 | ★★★★☆ |
| Megamaster 1-Burner | 360 sq in | 11,000 | 14 lbs | $76.86 | ★★★★☆ |
| Nexgrill 1-Burner | 183 sq in | 10,000 | 20 lbs | $96.73 | ★★★★☆ |
| Rosyouth Portable | 189 sq in | 10,000 | 15 lbs | $65.01 | ★★★★☆ |
1. Coleman Fold ‘N Go Portable Grill
The Coleman Fold ‘N Go is a compact and lightweight grill, perfect for solo campers or small groups. With its 6,000 BTU output and 105 sq in cooking area, it heats up quickly and cooks evenly. The foldable design and built-in handle make it incredibly portable.
2. Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill
The Cuisinart Grillster offers 8,000 BTUs across a 146 sq in cooking surface. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the locking lid makes transportation a breeze. It’s ideal for those who value both form and function.
3. Camplux Tabletop Propane Grill
The Camplux Tabletop Grill boasts a generous 189 sq in cooking area and a powerful 10,000 BTU burner. It’s designed for easy setup and even heat distribution, making it suitable for various outdoor cooking scenarios.
4. Char-Broil Portable Gas Grill
The Char-Broil Portable Grill delivers 11,000 BTUs over a 190 sq in cooking surface. Its stainless steel design ensures longevity, and the push-button ignition offers hassle-free startups. It’s a reliable choice for campers seeking efficiency.
5. Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill
The Megamaster 1-Burner Grill provides a spacious 360 sq in cooking area with an 11,000 BTU output. Its compact design doesn’t compromise on cooking space, making it ideal for larger groups on a budget.
6. Nexgrill 1-Burner Portable Propane Gas Grill
The Nexgrill 1-Burner Grill offers 10,000 BTUs and a 183 sq in cooking surface. Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard barbecues.
7. Rosyouth Portable Gas Grill
The Rosyouth Portable Grill is a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. With a 10,000 BTU output and 189 sq in cooking area, it’s suitable for various outdoor cooking needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right affordable propane grill depends on your specific camping needs. Whether you prioritize portability, cooking surface area, or BTU output, there’s a grill on this list to match your requirements. Personally, I’ve found the Coleman Fold ‘N Go to be exceptionally convenient for solo trips, while the Megamaster 1-Burner is great for group outings due to its larger cooking area.
Remember, investing in a reliable grill enhances your outdoor cooking experience, making meals more enjoyable and hassle-free. Happy grilling!
Don’t Let the Low Price Fool You
Just because these propane grills cost under $100 doesn’t mean they’re poor quality. I’ve personally used affordable grills that held up through rain, high heat, and rough handling. As long as they have strong BTUs and a decent cook surface, they’ll perform just as well as some pricier models.
Lightweight Matters More Than You Think
When I pack for a quick weekend trip, the last thing I want is to lug a heavy grill. That’s why I stick with lightweight propane grills like the Cuisinart Grillster or Coleman Fold ‘N Go. They weigh under 15 lbs and fit right next to my cooler or tent.
Stability on Uneven Ground Is a Must
Campgrounds aren’t always level. That’s why I love grills with wide, sturdy bases. I’ve cooked on picnic tables, gravel, and even soft grass—and grills like the Camplux Tabletop don’t tip or wobble while flipping burgers.
Space-Saving Lids Make Transport Easier
If you’re low on trunk space like me, folding or locking lids are a huge advantage. They allow you to pack the grill flat without weird edges sticking out. The Char-Broil and Nexgrill models really shine here.
Always Choose 1-lb Propane Compatibility
I only bring 1-lb propane tanks for camping. They’re easier to carry and take up less room. Every grill on this list works perfectly with 1-lb bottles, and some even let you use adapters for bigger tanks if you need longer cook time.
Grill Size Should Match Your Group Size
If I’m just cooking for myself or one other person, a compact model is all I need. But if I’m feeding 4+ people, I go for something with at least 180 square inches of space—like the Megamaster 1-Burner, which fits multiple meals at once.
Don’t Overlook Push-Button Ignition
Matches are old school—and not in a good way when it’s windy. I prefer grills with electronic or twist ignition, even on a budget. Most models here include one, and it makes firing up the grill quick and stress-free.
Setup Should Take Less Than 2 Minutes
No one wants to wrestle with screws or toolkits in the woods. I always test my grill at home first, but these budget models usually snap open and plug into the propane in under 2 minutes. That’s what I call plug and play cooking.
Great for Last-Minute Trips
Sometimes I decide to camp on a whim. That’s why I keep an affordable propane grill in my trunk at all times. If the weather’s nice or I find a new park, I’m ready to cook on the spot without needing to prep anything fancy.
Cleaning Should Be Simple
Grills under $100 can still be easy to clean, especially if they have removable grease trays or non-stick grates. I use foil or grill mats to reduce mess, then give it a quick wipe before packing it up. No scrubbing required.
Useful for More Than Just Camping
These grills aren’t just for the campsite—I’ve used mine during power outages, beach days, and backyard gatherings when my main grill was out of commission. At this price, it’s worth having one as a backup or travel option.
Simple Gear, Amazing Food
You don’t need to spend hundreds to enjoy delicious outdoor meals. With just a budget propane grill, a tank, and a few basics like foil and tongs, I’ve made everything from grilled chicken to quesadillas at camp. These grills get the job done—and do it well.