How to Store Your Propane Grill Safely Between Camping Trips
I’ll be honest—after a long camping weekend, the last thing I want to do is clean and store my grill. But I’ve learned (the hard way) that skipping proper storage can ruin a perfectly good grill way faster than you’d expect. Whether you’re packing it away for a week or a whole season, storing your propane grill the right way keeps it safe, rust-free, and ready to fire up next time without any surprises.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how I store my propane grill after every trip. It’s easy once you have a system—and totally worth it if you care about keeping your gear in top shape.
Table of Contents
1. Clean It Thoroughly Before Packing It Up
I used to leave the cleaning for “later” (spoiler: I never got to it). But now, I make it part of my routine before heading home.
- Scrub the grates with a wire brush or grill cleaning pad.
- Empty and wipe down the grease tray.
- Wipe off food particles from the burners, knobs, and exterior.
- Let it all dry completely to avoid mold or rust.
Trust me, doing this while the grill is still slightly warm makes cleanup 10x easier.
2. Disconnect and Inspect the Propane Tank
Before storing, I always turn off the propane tank valve and disconnect it from the grill.
Then I check:
- The hose and regulator for any cracks or damage.
- The tank for rust or dents (important if you’re storing it in the heat or cold).
Store the propane tank outside in a cool, ventilated space. Never indoors or in a tightly enclosed spot—safety first.
3. Protect It with a Quality Cover
Even if you store your grill in a shed or garage, a durable grill cover is your best defense against dust, moisture, and bugs. I use a weatherproof cover with UV protection and tie-down straps, like this one from
A cover also keeps spiders and wasps from nesting in your burners (I’ve been there… and it’s gross).
4. Store It in a Dry, Shaded Spot
Humidity is the enemy. I keep my grill in a shaded shed with airflow, and if I’m storing it outside, I elevate it slightly so it’s not sitting in puddles after a rain.
If you’re storing the grill in your garage:
- Keep it away from fertilizers, paint, or chemicals that could corrode the metal.
- Use a folding table or shelf to store accessories like tongs, grill pans, or brushes.
5. Use Grill Bags for Loose Tools and Accessories
One of my favorite tricks: I use a heavy-duty tote or grill bag to store grill tools, lighter, foil, cooking gloves, and skewers. It keeps everything together and saves me the headache of hunting for gear when I pack for the next trip.
I recommend this grill storage bag on Amazon – sturdy, water-resistant, and big enough for all your tools.
6. Check for Pests Before Storing Long-Term
If you’re putting your grill away for the winter or a long break, check for insect nests or food scraps one last time. I place a few dryer sheets or cedar chips inside the grill to deter bugs and mice—they hate the smell.
7. Don’t Forget the Igniter and Battery Compartment
If your grill has an electric igniter that uses batteries, remove the battery before long-term storage. I’ve had batteries corrode and destroy the compartment over time. Just pop it out, store it in your grill tool bag, and you’ll avoid any nasty surprises.
8. Re-check Everything Before Your Next Trip
Before your next campout:
- Inspect the burners and hoses.
- Test the ignition system.
- Reconnect the propane tank and do a quick leak check with soapy water (bubbles mean leaks—tighten or replace immediately).
This 5-minute checkup helps you avoid showing up at your campsite with a broken grill.
Final Thoughts
Taking 15-20 minutes to properly store your propane grill is honestly one of the smartest things you can do. It saves money, protects your gear, and ensures you’re always ready for the next adventure. I’ve made it a habit, and now my grill lasts longer, lights every time, and looks almost brand new—even after years of use.
I Learned the Hard Way
The first time I stored my grill without cleaning it, I came back a month later to find rust, grease buildup, and a nasty odor. It only took one ruined grill to teach me how important storage really is. Now, it’s part of my camping routine—and it makes a huge difference.
Use Aluminum Foil to Cover Burners
One little trick I started doing: after cleaning and drying the burners, I lay sheets of aluminum foil over them before covering the grill. It adds a layer of dust and insect protection, especially if you’re storing it outside or in a garage.
Label Your Propane Tanks
If you’ve got multiple propane tanks (like I do), labeling them helps you avoid confusion. I use a simple sticker system to mark which tanks are full, half-full, or empty. It saves time when you’re packing for the next trip and keeps things safe.
Don’t Store the Grill Upside Down
I’ve seen people store compact grills upside down to “protect the inside.” Don’t do this. It can cause stress on the lid hinges or trap moisture. Always store your grill upright, clean, and covered.
Dry It Completely Before Covering
After cleaning your grill, let it air dry fully before you throw a cover on it. Trapped moisture is one of the fastest ways to cause corrosion or mold, especially in humid climates.
Use Desiccant Packs Inside
If you live somewhere humid, consider placing a few silica gel or desiccant packs inside your grill or the storage area. They absorb moisture and prevent rust. I buy a bulk pack on Amazon and reuse them throughout my storage containers.
Keep It Off the Ground
Storing your grill directly on the dirt or concrete can lead to faster corrosion—especially in the legs or frame. I place my grill on a wooden pallet or thick mat to keep it off the ground and allow airflow underneath.
Use a Small Grill Cabinet or Storage Box
If you’re tight on space, you can invest in a grill storage cabinet that fits under a deck or in a garage. They’re waterproof, lockable, and keep your tools and gear in one tidy space. It’s one of the best upgrades I’ve made for gear organization.
Reseal Any Chips or Scratches
Before storing your grill, inspect it for chipped paint or exposed metal. You can use high-heat grill paint to touch up small areas, which helps prevent rust from spreading during storage.
Keep a Quick Checklist
I now keep a laminated checklist in my grill bag with reminders: clean grates, empty grease tray, disconnect propane, remove batteries, inspect burners, cover tightly. It sounds simple, but it keeps me from forgetting the small stuff.
Avoid Using Tarps
I tried using a tarp once, thinking it’d protect the grill. Big mistake. Tarps trap moisture and don’t breathe, which actually led to more rust and mildew. Use only grill-specific covers that are made to protect and ventilate.
Seasonal Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Even if you’re not camping for a while, give your grill a quick check every few months. Wipe it down, look for signs of corrosion or critters, and make sure the cover is still tight. A few minutes of maintenance can save you a costly replacement.