Top Propane Grills That Work with Both 1 lb and 20 lb Tanks
When I’m planning a camping trip, flexibility is everything. Some days I’m cooking a quick meal with a small 1 lb propane tank, and other times I want to connect a 20 lb tank for longer use. The best solution? A grill that works with both.
In this post, I’ll show you the top propane grills on Amazon that are compatible with both 1 lb and 20 lb propane tanks—so you can choose what works best for your trip, your pack space, and your fuel needs.
Table of Contents
Why Dual-Tank Compatibility Matters
Trust me, once you experience the convenience of switching between tank sizes, there’s no going back. Here’s why it matters:
- 1 lb tanks are great for portability, short trips, or quick meals
- 20 lb tanks last much longer—ideal for extended stays or group cooking
- Dual compatibility means you don’t need two different grills
- It gives you a backup fuel option if one tank runs out
These grills are all ready to go with a 1 lb tank, and you can easily attach a 20 lb tank with a standard adapter hose (many include it, or it’s available separately).
Top Propane Grills That Work with 1 lb and 20 lb Tanks (Amazon Picks)
1. Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
This is one of my personal favorites. It’s compact but powerful, and it runs on 1 lb propane canisters right out of the box. Add the optional adapter hose, and you’re good to go with a full-size 20 lb tank.
- 189 sq. in. cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Cast aluminum body
- Super efficient with fuel
2. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Stand-Up Grill
Designed for portability and versatility, this grill works with 1 lb tanks by default, and you can connect a 20 lb tank with a Swaptop-compatible hose adapter. It’s ideal for families, group trips, or tailgating.
- 285 sq. in. cooking area
- 3 adjustable burners
- Foldable legs and wheels
- 20,000 total BTUs
- Interchangeable grates and griddles
3. Blackstone 17-Inch Tabletop Griddle
I love this griddle for quick breakfasts or stir-fries at camp. It connects easily to a 1 lb propane bottle, and with a separate Blackstone propane adapter, it works beautifully with standard 20 lb tanks.
- 12,000 BTUs
- 268 sq. in. flat top cooking area
- Grease trap included
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great for solo or duo camping
4. Gas One Dual Fuel Stove – Butane and Propane
Technically a stove, but it deserves a spot here because of its dual-fuel and dual-tank flexibility. This small but powerful unit connects to both 1 lb tanks (with the included propane hose) or runs on butane canisters. I bring this on short hikes or to use alongside my grill.
- 7,650 BTUs
- Lightweight with carrying case
- Safe for use in tight spaces
- Boils water fast
5. Flame King RV or Tabletop Propane Grill
Built for RV and portable use, this heavy-duty grill connects to both 1 lb and 20 lb propane tanks with ease. It’s a great all-around choice for long trips, cooking for families, or mounting to your camper.
- 214 sq. in. cooking surface
- Works as a tabletop or mounted grill
- Lockable lid and carry handle
- Auto shut-off safety valve
- Built for rugged conditions
How to Use a 20 lb Propane Tank With These Grills
Most of the grills above come ready to work with a 1 lb propane tank, but to use a 20 lb tank, you’ll need a propane adapter hose. Here’s how it works:
- Buy a compatible adapter hose (most are under $20)
- Attach it to your grill’s 1 lb regulator input
- Connect the other end to your 20 lb tank
- Open the valve slowly and check for leaks with soapy water
My go-to adapter is the 15″ or 5′ propane hose with pressure regulator—they’re easy to use and highly rated on Amazon.
Best Adapter Hose to Add to Your Kit
Check this top-rated propane adapter on Amazon
- Connects 1 lb propane appliance to 20 lb tank
- Solid brass fittings
- Leak-tested for safety
- Saves money on fuel long-term
- A must-have for long trips
Why I Always Travel With Both Tank Sizes
On short overnight trips, I bring just a couple of 1 lb tanks for simplicity. But for long stays or if I’m cooking for a group, the 20 lb tank always comes along. Having a grill that works with both gives me total control—and backup in case one runs dry.
Great for RVs, Tents, and Car Camping
Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or out of your car, dual-fuel grills are perfect. I’ve used the Weber Q1200 with a 1 lb tank for quick lunches and then switched to a 20 lb tank for multi-day cooking. It’s seamless and efficient.
Fuel Cost Savings Add Up
1 lb tanks are convenient—but not cheap. A 20 lb propane tank costs less per ounce of fuel and lasts far longer. Once you switch over, you’ll see the savings quickly add up—especially if you cook every day while camping.
Ideal for Weekend Warriors and Full-Time Campers
Whether you’re doing a quick weekend getaway or you’re living out of your van or RV full-time, having a grill that works with both tank sizes gives you flexibility that matters. I’ve used my dual-fuel setup for everything from tailgates to two-week national park stays, and it never lets me down.
No More Worrying About Running Out of Gas
One of the worst feelings is firing up the grill, halfway through cooking dinner—and boom, you’re out of propane. When you carry both 1 lb tanks and a 20 lb tank, you always have a backup ready. These dual-compatible grills give you that peace of mind without needing to haul two different cooking setups.
Portable Size, Full-Size Performance
Most of the grills I’ve listed strike the perfect balance: they’re small enough to pack in your trunk or rooftop cargo box, yet powerful enough to cook full meals for a family. Models like the Blackstone 17-inch and Weber Q1200 prove you don’t need to sacrifice performance for portability.
Great for Cooking at Rest Stops and Campsites
On long road trips, I’ll stop at a rest area or scenic pull-off, pull out the grill, and cook lunch. If I’m only stopping for an hour, the 1 lb tank makes setup and cleanup fast. But once I’m at camp for the night, I hook up the 20 lb tank for full-meal performance without worrying about fuel.
Easier Refueling Options
Let’s face it—1 lb propane bottles are expensive and not refillable at most places. But with a 20 lb tank, I can refill it almost anywhere: gas stations, hardware stores, campgrounds. Dual compatibility gives you more ways to keep cooking without hunting for overpriced fuel canisters.
Adapters Are Lightweight and Travel-Friendly
I keep my propane adapter hose in a zip pouch with my grilling gear. It weighs next to nothing and gives me options no matter where I end up. Most are under $20 and take up less room than a pair of tongs—no reason not to bring one just in case.
Perfect for Boiling Water, Too
When I’m camping in colder months, I often boil water for coffee, tea, or washing dishes. A grill like the Coleman RoadTrip 285 can handle both food and water-boiling duties when hooked up to a 20 lb tank. It runs longer, heats faster, and lets me multitask without stress.
Family-Sized Meals Need Family-Sized Fuel
If you’re cooking for 4+ people every night, that 1 lb tank won’t last long. I’ve burned through one in a single breakfast. But with a 20 lb tank connected to a dual-fuel grill, I can cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner multiple days in a row without changing fuel sources.
Grills with Built-In Connectors Make Switching Easy
Some of the better models, like the Flame King, come with built-in dual connectors or regulator compatibility that makes it super simple to switch between tank sizes. No need to fumble with extra gear—just connect and go.
Propane Safety Tips for Switching Tanks
Here’s how I stay safe when swapping between 1 lb and 20 lb tanks:
- Always check for leaks using soapy water
- Shut the tank valve when not in use
- Store your 20 lb tank upright, out of direct sunlight
- Never store tanks inside your tent or camper
- Inspect hoses regularly for cracks or wear
Best Budget Grill That Works With Both Tank Sizes
If you’re on a budget but still want dual compatibility, the Gas One Dual Fuel Stove is perfect. It’s not a full grill, but it boils water, heats pans, and runs on both propane and butane, making it an excellent backup or minimalist solution.