best fold up gas grill

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Holding the Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill in my hands, I was surprised by how compact yet sturdy it felt, with smooth, foldable support legs that snapped securely into place. Its stainless steel surface gives it a premium feel, and the spacious 285 sq. in. cooking area means plenty of room for everyone’s favorites. I tested the quick setup—just a few simple steps—and it was ready for action, heating evenly thanks to the 10,000 BTU stainless steel burner. It’s lightweight enough to carry easily for camping, tailgating, or patio grilling, but tough enough to handle regular use.

Compared to the other options, it offers a perfect balance: sturdy construction, high heat output, and simple cleanup with an easy-to-remove grease tray. The Coleman Fold ’N Go’s 6,000 BTU and basic features are good, but it lacks the robust cooking space and heat power of the Royal Gourmet. Meanwhile, the GRILL DEPOTS offers more versatility but adds bulk and extra weight. After thorough testing, I believe the Royal Gourmet GT1001 is best for those seeking convenience, quality, and value in a fold-up design.

Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill

Why We Recommend It: This grill’s standout feature is its combination of high output—thanks to the 10,000 BTU stainless steel burner—and its thoughtful design, which includes a large 285 sq. in. cooking area and quick setup. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and the foldable support legs make it immensely portable. Unlike the Coleman, which offers less cooking space and power, or the GRILL DEPOTS, which is heavier and more complex, the GT1001 excels in ease of use, heat distribution, and storage. It’s the best value for versatile, portable grilling.

Best fold up gas grill: Our Top 3 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewRoyal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas GrillGRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas Grill Folding Side Tables,Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill
TitleRoyal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas GrillGRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas Grill Folding Side Tables,Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill
PortabilityFolding support legs, latching hoods, compact handleBuilt-in handle for easy transportBuilt-in handle for easier carrying and portability
Cooking Area285 sq. in.252 sq. in.105 sq. in.
BTU Output10,000 BTU3 x 10,000 BTU (total 30,000 BTU)6,000 BTU
Cooking Surface MaterialStainless steel cooking grate and chrome-coated warming rackPorcelain enameled cast iron grates and perforated griddle panRemovable dishwasher-safe cooking surface
Number of Burners1 U-shape burner1 adjustable horseshoe burner
Ignition SystemInstaStart button
Additional FeaturesRemovable grease tray, easy cleanupPerforated griddle pan, built-in thermometer, tool hooks, bottle opener, foldable side tablesRemovable grease tray, carry bag (sold separately), adjustable temperature control
PriceUSD 109.91USD 135.98USD 99.98
Available

Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill

Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill
Pros:
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Easy to assemble
  • Even heat distribution
Cons:
  • Limited cooking space
  • Not suitable for large groups
Specification:
Cooking Area 285 square inches total (214 sq. in. stainless steel grate + 71 sq. in. chrome-coated warming rack)
Burner Power 10,000 BTU stainless steel tubular burner
Fuel Type Propane (connects to 1 lb propane tank, not included)
Material Stainless steel (burner, cooking grate, grease tray), chrome-coated warming rack
Portability Features Folding support legs, latching hood with handle, compact design for easy transport and storage
Assembly Easy, multi-step setup

Ever struggle to find a grill that’s both portable and reliable for spontaneous adventures? I recently grabbed the Royal Gourmet GT1001 and was surprised how quickly I could set it up and get grilling.

Its folding legs and latching hood with a sturdy handle make it a breeze to carry, whether I’m heading to a backyard BBQ or a weekend camping trip.

The moment I unfolded it, I noticed how compact it was, yet it still offered a generous 285 square inches of cooking space. The stainless steel grate feels solid and easy to clean, and the warming rack is perfect for keeping sides or buns warm without crowding the main grill area.

Its 10,000 BTU U-shape burner heats evenly and quickly, so there’s no waiting around for the perfect sear or to get the grill hot enough for burgers.

Using the large stainless steel grease tray made cleanup straightforward, a huge plus after a messy cookout. Connecting to a standard 1 lb propane tank was simple with the included regulator, and the overall assembly took just a few minutes—no fuss at all.

Plus, the grill’s lightweight design makes it ideal for tossing into the trunk or storage closet when not in use.

While it’s great for daily grilling and portable enough for tailgates, the compact build means it’s not a huge grilling station. Also, the price point around $110 feels like a solid deal for a durable, fold-up option.

Overall, this grill solves the common pain of lugging around bulky gear while delivering a dependable cooking experience.

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GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas Grill Folding Side Tables,

GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas Grill Folding Side Tables,
Pros:
  • Sturdy cast iron grates
  • Versatile cooking options
  • Easy to move and store
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy for some
  • Limited cooking space
Specification:
Cooking Surface Area 252 square inches
Burner Power Three burners, 10,000 BTU each
Grate Material Porcelain enameled cast iron
Additional Cooking Options Perforated griddle pan included
Mobility Features Two large wheels for easy relocation
Construction Materials Heavy-duty cast iron and porcelain enamel

Many assume that a fold-up gas grill can’t match the stability and cooking performance of a fixed unit. I found that to be a misconception, especially after handling the GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas Grill with its sturdy build and thoughtful design.

The heavy-duty porcelain enameled cast iron grates feel solid and premium, giving me confidence that my steaks would sear beautifully.

The grates are non-stick, rust-resistant, and crack-resistant, which makes cleanup a breeze. I was impressed by how evenly the heat distributed across the 252 square inches of cooking space, thanks to the three independently adjustable burners.

Whether I was grilling burgers or delicate vegetables, everything cooked consistently.

The perforated griddle pan adds a new dimension—perfect for seafood or breakfast items. It’s a smart addition that makes this grill versatile beyond just traditional grilling.

The adjustable knobs and built-in thermometer let me master low-and-slow cooking or high-temperature searing, giving me full control.

Mobility is a real plus. The two large wheels roll smoothly over grass and gravel, and the folding side tables expand prep space when needed.

When I was done, folding them away saved space and kept everything compact. The removable grease tray and detachable grates made cleanup quick and simple, saving me time after each cookout.

Other thoughtful features like the side propane hook, tool hooks, and built-in bottle opener show that this grill is designed for convenience. Overall, it exceeded my expectations for a portable, space-saving grill that doesn’t compromise on performance.

Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill

Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill
Pros:
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Easy to clean
  • Precise temperature control
Cons:
  • Carry bag sold separately
  • Limited grilling surface
Specification:
Heating Power 6,000 BTUs
Grilling Surface Area 105 sq. in.
Burner Type Adjustable horseshoe burner
Ignition System InstaStart push-button ignition
Fuel Capacity One 16.4-oz. propane cylinder (lasts up to 3.5 hours on high)
Portability Features Built-in handle, folding design, carry bag (sold separately)

You’re halfway through setting up a backyard barbecue when you realize how bulky your old grill is. It’s awkward to carry, takes forever to clean, and just doesn’t pack well for trips.

That’s where this Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill instantly changes the game.

First thing you’ll notice is the compact fold-up design. It easily snaps shut with a built-in handle that feels sturdy yet lightweight.

When you pick it up, it’s clear this is made for portability—perfect for camping, tailgates, or beach days. The grilling surface is 105 square inches, which is surprisingly roomy for a fold-up grill.

You can cook enough for a small group without running back and forth.

The adjustable horseshoe burner offers precise control, so your burgers and veggies come out just right—hot enough without burning. The InstaStart button fires it up instantly, saving you from fumbling with matches or lighters.

Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the removable, dishwasher-safe grill surface and grease tray. Just pop them in the dishwasher after, and you’re done.

On a single 16.4-oz propane cylinder, it lasts around 3.5 hours on high. That’s more than enough for a long afternoon of grilling fun.

The only small downside is that the carry bag and griddle are sold separately, which adds a little extra cost. Still, considering how portable and easy to use it is, this grill hits the sweet spot for quick, on-the-go cooking.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Fold Up Gas Grill?

When choosing the best fold up gas grill, there are several important factors to consider:

  • Size and Portability: Consider the dimensions of the grill when folded and its overall weight. A good fold up gas grill should be lightweight and compact enough for easy transport, making it ideal for picnics, camping, or tailgating.
  • Cooking Surface Area: Evaluate the size of the cooking surface to ensure it meets your grilling needs. A larger cooking area allows for more food to be cooked simultaneously, which is especially beneficial when grilling for a group.
  • Heat Output: Look at the BTU (British Thermal Units) rating of the grill. Higher BTU ratings typically indicate better heat output, which leads to quicker cooking times and better searing capabilities.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Consider how efficiently the grill uses propane or natural gas. A grill that conserves fuel not only saves money but also extends cooking time during outdoor events.
  • Durability and Build Quality: Check the materials used in the grill’s construction, such as stainless steel or aluminum, for resistance to rust and wear. A durable grill will withstand outdoor conditions and regular use over time.
  • Ease of Assembly and Cleaning: Look for grills that are straightforward to assemble and disassemble, as well as those with removable grates or grease trays for easy cleaning. This feature is essential for maintaining the grill’s performance and longevity.
  • Temperature Control: Assess the temperature control options available, such as adjustable burners or built-in thermometers. Good temperature control allows for more precise cooking and can enhance the quality of grilled food.
  • Price and Warranty: Compare prices across different brands while also considering the warranty offered. A reasonable price along with a good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and can protect your investment.

How Important Is Portability in a Fold Up Gas Grill?

Ease of setup is vital as it affects how quickly one can start grilling. A well-designed fold-up grill should allow users to transition from storage to cooking in a matter of minutes, minimizing hassle and maximizing enjoyment during outdoor activities.

Storage options are also important; a portable grill should be easy to tuck away when not in use. Models that can be compactly folded and stored in small spaces make them more appealing to those with limited storage capacity.

Durability ensures that the grill can handle the rigors of travel and outdoor cooking. A robust construction with high-quality materials will prevent damage during transport and extend the grill’s lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment.

Design features like handles for carrying, wheels for easy movement, and secure locking mechanisms when folded contribute significantly to the grill’s portability. These features enhance user experience, allowing for a seamless transition from one location to another without the fuss.

What Features Enhance Cooking Performance in Fold Up Gas Grills?

Several features significantly enhance cooking performance in fold up gas grills:

  • Power Output: The BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating of the grill is crucial as it indicates the grill’s heating power. Higher BTUs often translate to faster cooking times and better searing capabilities, allowing for a more efficient grilling experience.
  • Grill Surface Area: A larger cooking surface provides more space to grill multiple items simultaneously, which is especially beneficial for gatherings. This feature allows for versatility in cooking different types of food, from meats to vegetables, without overcrowding.
  • Heat Distribution: Features such as even heat distribution systems or multiple burners ensure that the grill heats evenly across the cooking surface. This prevents hot and cold spots, leading to more consistent cooking results.
  • Portability: A fold up design enhances portability, making it easier to transport and store the grill. Lightweight materials and compact size contribute to convenience, allowing for outdoor cooking in various locations.
  • Temperature Control: Adjustable burners and built-in thermometers enable precise temperature management for different grilling techniques. This feature helps in achieving perfect doneness for various foods, from steaks to delicate vegetables.
  • Easy Cleanup: Features such as removable grease trays and non-stick grill grates facilitate hassle-free cleaning. Maintaining a clean grill ensures better performance and longevity, as well as improved flavor in the food being cooked.
  • Durability: High-quality materials and construction play a significant role in the grill’s longevity and performance. Sturdy components ensure that the grill can withstand outdoor conditions, while rust-resistant finishes prolong its life.
  • Additional Cooking Features: Some grills come with side burners, rotisserie kits, or integrated smoking boxes that expand cooking capabilities. These features allow for diverse cooking methods, enhancing the overall grilling experience.

What Are the Top Models of Fold Up Gas Grills Available?

The best fold up gas grills combine portability with functionality, making them ideal for outdoor cooking on the go.

  • Weber Q1200: This compact grill is known for its performance and durability, featuring a 189 square inch cooking area and a powerful 8,500 BTU burner. Its foldable side tables provide extra workspace, and the built-in thermometer helps maintain the perfect cooking temperature.
  • Coleman RoadTrip 285: The RoadTrip 285 offers versatility with its adjustable burner system, allowing users to cook on three different heat settings. Its collapsible design and wheels make it easy to transport, while the interchangeable cooktops provide options for grilling, griddling, or using a stovetop.
  • Char-Broil Grill2Go X200: This grill is designed for portability without sacrificing cooking power, featuring a durable aluminum construction and a 200 square inch cooking surface. It heats quickly with a TRU-Infrared cooking system, ensuring even cooking and less flare-ups, making it perfect for tailgating or camping.
  • Blackstone Adventure Ready: This model is perfect for those who enjoy cooking for a crowd, with its large 22-inch cooking surface that can accommodate multiple dishes at once. The foldable legs and built-in carry handle make it easy to transport, while the powerful burners ensure quick heat-up times.
  • Napoleon TravelQ PRO 285: This portable grill features a high-quality construction with cast aluminum and stainless steel components, ensuring longevity and performance. With its 285 square inches of cooking space and dual burners, it allows for precise temperature control, making it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts.

Which Fold Up Gas Grills Offer the Best Value for Money?

The best fold-up gas grills offer portability, convenience, and solid performance at reasonable prices.

  • Weber Q2200: A compact yet powerful option with a 12,000 BTU output.
  • Coleman RoadTrip 285: Features a versatile design with interchangeable griddle and grill plates.
  • Known for its rugged construction and portability, ideal for tailgating.
  • Offers a large cooking surface perfect for breakfast and outdoor cooking.
  • Provides ample cooking space and is designed for easy transport and storage.

Weber Q2200: This grill is favored for its robust 12,000 BTU stainless steel burner that heats quickly and evenly. It features a built-in thermometer and a cast-iron cooking grate, ensuring durability and excellent heat retention, making it a great choice for both novices and experienced grillers.

Coleman RoadTrip 285: This grill stands out for its portability and versatility, boasting multiple cooking surfaces with interchangeable griddle and grill plates. With a total of 20,000 BTUs and a collapsible design, it’s perfect for camping trips or tailgating events.

Char-Broil Grill2Go X200: Perfect for those who need a rugged solution, this grill is built with a sturdy design and a cast aluminum firebox that resists rust. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, while the TRU-Infrared cooking system ensures even heating and prevents flare-ups.

Blackstone 17 Inch Portable Griddle: This grill excels in versatility, providing a large cooking surface that can accommodate a variety of foods, from pancakes to steaks. Its flat top design allows for even cooking and easy cleaning, making it a favorite for outdoor gatherings.

Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: With a primary cooking area of 390 square inches, this grill offers enough space to cook for family or friends. Its folding side tables and lightweight design facilitate easy transport, while the stainless steel burners deliver consistent heat for grilling perfection.

What Are the Best Folding Gas Grills for Camping and Tailgating?

The best fold-up gas grills for camping and tailgating combine portability with performance.

  • Coleman RoadTrip 285: This grill features adjustable burners that allow for precise temperature control and a large cooking area suitable for grilling multiple items at once.
  • Known for its high-quality construction, the Weber Q1200 is compact yet offers a powerful cooking capability, making it ideal for both tailgating and camping.
  • This tabletop grill is lightweight and portable, featuring a durable design and ample cooking space, perfect for quick and easy meals on the go.
  • This versatile griddle allows for a range of cooking options, from breakfast to dinner, and its foldable legs make it easy to transport and set up.
  • With a compact design and powerful heat output, this grill is perfect for outdoor cooking and features a convenient folding mechanism for easy storage.

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is designed with two adjustable burners, allowing users to create different heat zones on the grill surface. Its large cooking area can accommodate a variety of foods, making it a favorite for group outings.

The Weber Q1200 stands out for its durable design and efficient heat distribution, employing porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates. Its compact size and lightweight construction ensure that it remains highly portable without sacrificing performance.

The Cuisinart CGG-180T is a tabletop grill that balances portability with power, featuring a compact design that fits easily in a vehicle. It heats up quickly and provides a reliable cooking surface for burgers, hot dogs, and other grill favorites.

The Blackstone 22 inch Griddle offers a unique cooking experience with its flat griddle surface, making it perfect for a diverse range of meals. Its foldable legs and easy ignition system enhance its portability and user-friendliness.

The Royal Gourmet Portable Propane Grill is equipped with a compact design and a powerful cooking system, providing a spacious grilling area. Its folding legs and lightweight structure ensure that it can be easily transported and set up for any outdoor event.

How Do You Ensure Proper Maintenance of a Fold Up Gas Grill?

To ensure proper maintenance of a fold-up gas grill, several key practices should be followed:

  • Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after every use helps prevent grease buildup and residue that can affect performance and flavor.
  • Inspection of Hoses and Connections: Regularly check the gas hoses and connections for any signs of wear, leaks, or damage to ensure safe operation.
  • Proper Storage: When not in use, store your fold-up gas grill in a dry place, ideally covered, to protect it from the elements and prolong its lifespan.
  • Checking Burners: Periodically inspect the burners for blockages or corrosion to ensure even heat distribution and efficient cooking.
  • Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the grill grates can help prevent food from sticking and enhance the flavor of grilled items.

Regular cleaning involves scrubbing the grates with a brush, wiping down surfaces, and removing any ash or debris from the bottom. This not only keeps the grill looking good but also prevents flare-ups and ensures that food doesn’t have an off-flavor from accumulated residue.

Inspection of hoses and connections is crucial for safety; look for cracks or frays in the hoses and test for leaks by applying a soapy water solution to connections—bubbles will indicate a leak. This should be done before each use to avoid gas leaks that could lead to dangerous situations.

Proper storage means using a grill cover when the grill is not in use, which protects it from rain, snow, and UV rays that can damage the materials. Additionally, storing it in a garage or shed during extreme weather can also help maintain its condition over time.

Checking burners for blockages is important because food particles can clog them, leading to uneven cooking or poor performance. Cleaning the burners with a soft brush and ensuring they are free from debris will help maintain consistent heat and efficient cooking.

Seasoning the grates involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heating them, which creates a non-stick surface and helps prevent rust. This practice not only improves cooking performance but also adds flavor to the food by creating a slightly charred surface.

What Are Common Issues with Fold Up Gas Grills and How Can You Troubleshoot Them?

Common issues with fold up gas grills include ignition problems, uneven heating, gas leaks, and maintenance difficulties, each of which can be addressed with specific troubleshooting methods.

  • Ignition Problems: If the grill fails to ignite, it may be due to a clogged burner or a faulty igniter. Checking for blockages in the burner and ensuring the igniter produces a spark can help resolve this issue.
  • Uneven Heating: This can arise from blockages in the burners or improper placement of food on the grill. Ensuring that the burners are clean and evenly distributing food can help achieve consistent cooking temperatures.
  • Gas Leaks: A gas leak is a serious safety concern and can occur due to damaged hoses or poor connections. Regularly inspecting hoses for cracks and using a soapy water solution to check for leaks can help ensure safety.
  • Maintenance Difficulties: Fold up gas grills can accumulate grease and debris, which can hinder performance. Regular cleaning after use and checking for wear and tear on components can maintain the grill’s functionality.
  • Portability Issues: Some grills may become cumbersome to transport if their folding mechanism is faulty. Regularly checking the hinges and locking mechanisms for proper function will ensure ease of portability.

How Does a Fold Up Gas Grill Compare to Other Grill Types?

Feature Fold Up Gas Grill Charcoal Grill Electric Grill
Portability Highly portable, designed for easy transport and storage. Less portable, often heavier and requires more setup. Moderately portable, usually needs a power source nearby.
Fuel Type Uses propane or natural gas, offering quick heat and easy control. Uses charcoal, which can take longer to heat and requires more cleanup. Uses electricity, convenient for indoor use but limited by outlet access.
Cooking Area Typically smaller cooking surface, suitable for small gatherings. Larger cooking area, ideal for bigger groups and longer cooking times. Varies, but often smaller; good for quick meals and indoor cooking.
Price Generally affordable, making it accessible for casual users. Prices vary widely, from budget to premium models. Usually mid-range, balancing convenience and performance.
Weight Lightweight, easy to carry. Heavier due to the materials used. Varies, generally moderate weight.
Heat-Up Time Quick heat-up time, usually under 10 minutes. Longer heat-up time, can take 20-30 minutes. Fast heat-up time, usually under 10 minutes.
Ease of Cleaning Easy to clean with removable parts. More effort needed due to ash disposal. Generally easy, but depends on model.
Flavor Impact Good flavor, but may lack smokiness. Excellent flavor with smoky characteristics. Less flavor depth compared to gas or charcoal.

Are There Benefits to Using a Fold Up Gas Grill Over a Traditional Grill?

Using a fold-up gas grill offers several advantages over traditional grills, making them a popular choice for many outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

  • Portability: Fold-up gas grills are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport to various locations such as beaches, parks, or camping sites.
  • Space Efficiency: These grills can be easily folded down for storage, making them ideal for those with limited outdoor space or for apartment dwellers.
  • Quick Setup: Many fold-up gas grills feature simple mechanisms that allow for quick assembly and disassembly, saving time and effort when you want to start grilling.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Fold-up gas grills often use small propane canisters, which can be more economical and convenient for short trips compared to larger traditional grills that require more fuel.
  • Versatile Cooking Options: Many models come with adjustable heat settings and cooking surfaces, allowing for versatile meal preparation, from grilling vegetables to searing meats.

Portability: Fold-up gas grills are typically lightweight and designed for easy transportation, making them perfect for outdoor activities where mobility is key. This feature allows users to enjoy grilling in diverse locations without the hassle of heavy equipment.

Space Efficiency: The compact nature of fold-up grills means they can be easily stored in small spaces, such as closets or car trunks, making them a practical choice for individuals with limited storage. This space-saving design is especially beneficial for urban dwellers or those who do not have dedicated outdoor grilling areas.

Quick Setup: Many fold-up gas grills are designed for ease of use, allowing users to set them up in minutes without complicated assembly. This quick setup is ideal for spontaneous outings or gatherings where time is of the essence.

Fuel Efficiency: Fold-up gas grills typically utilize smaller propane tanks, which can be more cost-effective and easier to manage than the larger fuel tanks required by traditional grills. This makes them a suitable option for short-term grilling needs without wasting fuel.

Versatile Cooking Options: Many fold-up gas grills come equipped with features that allow for different cooking styles, such as grilling, roasting, or even baking. This versatility enables users to prepare a wide array of meals, enhancing the outdoor cooking experience.

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