Top Propane Grills That Fold Flat for Easy Backpack Storage
When I’m camping off the grid or hiking into a remote campsite, I don’t want to carry a bulky grill. That’s why I started searching for propane grills that fold flat—something compact enough to fit in a backpack or be strapped to the outside without weighing me down. The good news is, there are some portable propane grills designed to fold completely flat, making them perfect for backpacking, minimalist camping, and lightweight travel.
In this post, I’ll share the top-rated fold-flat propane grills available on Amazon. These options are lightweight, easy to carry, and built for rugged use—ideal for hikers, solo campers, and adventurers who want hot meals without hauling around a huge setup.
Table of Contents
Best Propane Grills That Fold Flat for Backpack Storage (Amazon Picks)
1. Giantex Portable Gas Grill with Foldable Legs and Lockable Lid
This grill folds nearly flat and has lockable side handles, making it super convenient to slide into a large backpack or carry by hand. It also heats up quickly and is ideal for tailgates, forest hikes, and solo trips.
Key Features:
- Fold-flat legs and locking lid
- Stainless steel burners
- Compact for transport
- Compatible with 1 lb propane canisters
2. Flame King Flat-Top Portable Grill with Foldable Legs
What I love about this grill is that it was designed specifically for flat storage. The legs fold inward, and the lid locks down to a briefcase-like profile. It’s also incredibly easy to clean.
Why I recommend it:
- Wide cooking surface
- Legs fold flush to the body
- Push-button ignition
- Works with standard 1 lb propane tanks
3. Royal Gourmet PD1301S Flat Top Grill with Collapsible Legs
If you want a grill that folds nearly flat and still delivers power, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S is a great option. It’s not ultra-lightweight, but its flat-pack design and power output make it perfect for car camping or short treks.
Top Features:
- Collapsible legs for flat storage
- Porcelain-enameled griddle top
- 3 burners with independent control
- Piezo ignition system
4. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
This model isn’t fully flat, but it folds down more compact than most grills. It’s one of the lightest options out there and perfect for packing in a hiking pack with side compression straps.
Highlights:
- Lightweight at under 14 lbs
- Folding legs and lid lock
- 145 sq. in. grilling area
- Runs on 1 lb propane tanks
5. Volcano 3 Collapsible Grill, Stove & Fire Pit
The Volcano 3 folds down flatter than any grill I’ve used—and it triples as a grill, fire pit, and stove. It’s perfect for backcountry cooking where versatility matters and space is limited.
Why it stands out:
- Folds to 5″ flat
- Tri-fuel capable: propane, charcoal, wood
- Includes carrying case
- Ideal for minimalist campers and survivalists
What to Look for in a Flat-Folding Propane Grill
When I shop for a propane grill that fits in a backpack or hiking pack, here are my non-negotiables:
- Legs or frame must fold flat
- Lockable lid for clean, easy packing
- Lightweight (under 20 lbs)
- Works with 1 lb propane tanks
- Sturdy enough for uneven ground
- Compact profile for inside or outside of a backpack
If you’re hiking or dispersed camping, you want a setup that won’t wear you out—but still gives you the satisfaction of a hot, cooked meal.
Best Grill for Backpack-Friendly Camping
For ultra-compact cooking on the go, the Volcano 3 is my favorite. It folds nearly flat, handles multiple fuel types, and is tough enough for rugged adventures. If you want something more traditional, the Cuisinart CGG-180T is the lightest and simplest to pack.
Ready to cook anywhere, anytime?
Click here to browse the best fold-flat propane grills on Amazon.
One of the main benefits of using a flat-folding propane grill is how easy it is to transport. Whether you’re hiking to a backcountry campsite or just packing efficiently for car camping, saving space and weight makes a big difference.
Unlike traditional grills, these models are designed with low-profile frames and collapsible legs, which means they slide into tight spaces in your backpack, RV drawer, or under a car seat without taking up unnecessary room.
I always choose a grill that supports 1 lb propane cylinders, since they’re lightweight and easier to carry in a backpack. Some grills also offer adapters for 20 lb tanks, but for portable hiking trips, the smaller tank is best.
If you’re cooking in tight or rugged locations like near rocks, sand, or uneven terrain, flat-folding grills are safer because they sit low to the ground and have a wider base for better stability.
Look for grills with lid locks or integrated handles. These not only help you transport the grill safely but also keep dirt, leaves, and bugs out while you’re hiking to your next cooking spot.
Another thing I love about these grills is how fast they cool down. The compact designs with thin metal bodies cool quicker than large cast iron grills, which means I can pack them up sooner and move without long wait times.
If you’re on a multi-day hike, consider bringing a grill that doubles as a stove or fire pit, like the Volcano 3. This kind of gear consolidation is incredibly useful when you’re counting ounces and pack space.
Some models now come with non-stick or griddle-style surfaces, making cleanup easier in remote areas where you may not have access to running water. That’s a major plus when trying to pack light and stay efficient.
Durability is key when hiking through rough environments. That’s why I prefer grills with stainless steel burners and powder-coated or enameled bodies—they resist dents, rust, and wear better than flimsier options.
When cooking in national forests or fire-restricted areas, having a propane grill with a contained flame is usually allowed when open fires are not. A compact, compliant grill can help you stay within regulations while still enjoying hot meals.
If you’re solo camping or traveling ultralight, it helps to use the grill surface to boil water, make coffee, or even heat canned meals. The best fold-flat propane grills are versatile enough to handle more than just grilling meat.
Finally, if you’re a minimalist or survivalist camper, a fold-flat grill should be a core part of your loadout. It adds the ability to cook real food anywhere, without depending on heavy gear or unstable natural fire setups.