Football season is underway, and that means it’s time to tailgate. Tailgating isn’t complete without good food, so you’ll need a way to make that happen.
If you don’t have a grill or tailgating setup yet, don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of the best portable grills for tailgating.
Everyone’s game day experience is different, so there are a few factors to consider when choosing the right portable grill for you. Desired fuel type, the type of food you want to cook, how many people you want to cook for, and the space available for your setup are just a few things you should think about before choosing a portable grill for tailgating.
Here’s our list of the best portable tailgating grills for a winning BBQ:
Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill
This one is a perfect pellet grill option for when your tailgating situation requires you to go cordless. The Pit Boss Portable Battery Powered Wood Pellet Grill runs for up to 15 hours on a single battery and weighs less than 60 lbs., making it easy to pack up and take along for game day.
Plus, since it’s a pellet grill, it’s pretty easy to use and set cooking temperatures. It also has the Pit Boss Flame Broiler, so you still get direct flame access for searing.
As far as size goes, this portable grill has a 256 square inch cooking surface, so it’s ideal for cooking for a smaller crowd.
Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill
If you’re looking for more of that classic charcoal flavor for your game day feast, the Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill is a great option.
While charcoal grills require a bit more of a hands-on approach to cooking, the Rambler features a height-adjustable charcoal tray and large air dampers to give you more control over your desired temperature and airflow.
With 218 square inches of cooking space, it can fit up to 6 burgers or 12 bratwurst at a time, making it perfect for serving up a delicious game day spread for a crowd.
Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill
If gas grilling is more your speed, the Charbroil Grill2Go X200 Portable Gas Grill is the way to go for tailgating.
Start up is easy with its push button ignition, and the temperature gauge right on the lid makes it easy to monitor cooking temperatures so don’t have to miss out on the game day experience. The 200 square inch cooking surface fits up to 8 burgers, so you can easily feed a small crowd or a few very hungry friends.
Small but mighty, this grill also has a durable build, latches, and handles for easy transport and durability.
Pit Boss 3-Burner Tabletop Griddle
Tailgating can end up being an all-day affair, so a griddle could be a better fit to cook up any meal. With a 389 square inch cooking surface, the Pit Boss 3-Burner Tabletop Griddle is ideal for cooking up breakfast to start your game day off right. Later on, fire it up for smash burgers or brats for everyone.
It’s lightweight and easy to pack up and take to your favorite tailgating spot. Fueled by propane, it’s easy to use with a push start ignition and 3 separately controlled burners.
Charbroil Portable Gas Grill
If you’re tailgating with a smaller group, the Charbroil Portable Gas Grill is all you need. It’s also a cost-effective option, with a price under $50.
With 190 square inches of cooking space, it fits 6 burgers or about 9 brats. What really makes it a great portable grill option for tailgating is its fold-up design, which makes setting the grill up on the go so easy.
Plus, this portable gas grill comes with porcelain coated grates so you won’t have to worry about taking the time to clean when it’s time to go to the game.
Still unsure about which grill to go for? Check out our guide to Choosing and Outdoor Grill.
