A grill is a cooking device that applies heat on the surface of the food directly and is usually used for cooking meat and vegetables. In this article, we will discuss some of the best tailgate grills that are easy to transport and fire up a fun backyard party or a sporting event. You will come across different kinds of grills including gas, charcoal, or pellets, that can be compact or large enough to cook for a crowd. 

Our experts have taken the time to test all the products and have come up with a list of recommendations that boast essential features like even heat distribution, convenient portability, quick assembly, and ease of use. Therefore, before choosing one for yourself, you first need to decide on your preferences, requirements, and budget. This will be a great way to start your search – invest in a tailgating grill and enjoy delicious smoke-flavored food while tailgating or camping. 

• 1
  Best Overall

  Cuisinart CCG190RB Inch BBQ

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Enjoy versatile outdoor grilling with this 196-square-inch chrome-plated grill. It offers even heat distribution, a dual venting system for temperature control, and three secure lid locks for safe transport. Compact and lightweight, measuring 14x14x15 inches and weighing only 2 lbs, it's perfect for decks, patios, camping, tailgating, and more. The enamel-coated firebox and the ash catcher make it safe and easy to use. After using this grill, we felt that it was a compact, convenient, and efficient option for outdoor cooking. 

2

Best Gas Grill

Char-Broil Portable Gas Grill

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Crafted for convenient, on-the-go grilling, this grill has foldable legs, a secure lid, and heat-resistant handles that allow you to relocate it without waiting for it to cool down. Cook up to 8 hamburgers simultaneously on the 187 square inch chrome-plated cooking surface, which is both easy to clean and dishwasher-safe. The 11,000 BTU burner is compatible with 16.4 oz or 14.1 oz. propane canisters. Moreover, the grill is made of sturdy steel construction and a resilient, high-temperature coating to prevent rust, extending its lifespan. It excels at both grilling and low-temperature indirect cooking; simply close the lid for even heat distribution and reduced flare-ups.

3

Best for Small Groups

Cuisinart CGG-608 Portable Grill

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Cook smart with Cuisinart's Portable Grill that features a single 10,000 BTU burner, a generous 176 square inch cooking area, and a user-friendly twist-to-start ignition system. This grill offers both convenience and performance while the built-in temperature gauge on the lid ensures precise cooking control. Crafted with top-quality stainless steel, the cooking grate guarantees exceptional durability. Plus, it's designed to work with a 1 lb. propane canister (sold separately) – this grill is your ticket to a seamless and enjoyable outdoor cooking experience.

4

Most Budget-friendly Grill

Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable Tabletop Propane Gas Grill

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Make your outdoor experience as warm as the indoors by using this Cuisinart propane grill. It is a highly portable gas grill featuring a 145-square-inch cooking surface and convenient foldaway legs for easy transport and storage. The grill's performance is enhanced by a durable 5,500 BTU stainless-steel burner and an even-heating porcelain-enameled grate, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection. Setup is a breeze with the lightweight aluminum legs and stabilizing feet that snap into place within seconds, while an integrated lid lock keeps the lid securely closed during transportation. For added convenience, it features a distinctive briefcase-style carrying handle, making it incredibly easy to carry to your favorite outdoor destinations.

5

Most Compact Grill

Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill

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Enjoy the convenience of a one-touch ignition with this grill that features a user-friendly push-button ignition system. The cooking surface is made of a durable porcelain-enameled steel grate, while the base and lid are also coated with a protective porcelain enamel finish for long-lasting performance and rust resistance. The grill's plated steel legs have a smart pivot mechanism that securely locks the lid in place, making it easy to carry to your favorite outdoor cooking spots.

6

Most Convenient

Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill

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An ideal choice for on-the-go grilling enthusiasts, this portable propane gas grill by Weber can be effortlessly set up and folded down with just one hand. It is ingeniously connected to the cart for swift and hassle-free assembly. When it's time to stow it away, the compact fold minimizes storage space in your garage and allows it to easily fit in your car's trunk. With a generously sized grilling area that can accommodate up to 15 burgers, you can grill your entire meal simultaneously. Plus, this grill is thoughtfully engineered to maximize gas efficiency. You have the option to attach a 16 oz. gas canister. 

7

Best for Large Groups

Cuisinart CGG-180TS Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill

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You have the freedom to go anywhere and fire up this portable propane grill for your friends with this 50 square inches of porcelain-enameled grates – it offers a generous cooking area that can easily accommodate a large amount of food while ensuring even and efficient heat distribution. Equipped with a 5,500 BTU burner, a twist-to-start electronic ignition, and a precise temperature gauge, this tabletop grill offers the ultimate cooking temperature control. Plus, the folding legs are both sturdy and long-lasting, providing a stable base while in use and conveniently folding away for transport.

8

Best Wood Pellet Grill

Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill

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Tailgating, camping, or backyard barbecues just got a whole lot simpler with this convenient and versatile grill that offers a classic wood-fired flavor. Featuring precision temperature control, the Digital Arc Controller ensures precise grilling with a temperature range of 180-450 degrees Fahrenheit, maintaining accuracy within plus or minus 15 degrees. With this grill, you can take your wood-fired BBQ on the road, whether it's at your truck's tailgate, in a parking lot, at a campsite, or wherever your adventures lead you. You'll never have to leave behind the delightful smoky taste you love. Equipped with EZ fold legs, 300 square inches of cooking space, and a cooking capacity of up to 12 burgers, 3 racks of ribs, or 2 whole chickens.

Now that you've taken a look at some of the best tailgate grills that are available in the market, let's find out how you can choose one that's perfect for you.

After considering our recommendations for the best tailgate grills, you may have some trouble selecting just one. So here is a buying guide with different factors to consider, which along with your personal preferences will help you find the perfect one for your needs. 

1. Quality: The first factor one needs to ensure while investing in a grill is that it is well-constructed using durable materials. Most of the tailgate grills are constructed using robust stainless steel which is heat resistant and sturdy enough to last several years. You should also look for grills that are energy efficient. Check what is the rate of fuel consumption which will determine the grill's efficiency, especially with gas or pellet grills.
2. Features: There are various features to look out for while buying a grill to make your experience smooth and exciting. Grilling can get messy, so consider grills with removable grates or grease trays for easy cleaning. Moreover, look for grills that offer precise temperature control, such as the ones equipped with digital thermometers and adjustable burners with different heat settings to ensure you cook your delicious food to perfection. You may also consider a grill that is easy to transport and comes with foldable legs, carrying handles, and a compact design. Weight is also a consideration, especially if you'll be carrying it to your tailgating spot.
3. Fuel Type: Tailgate grills are available in different ignition fuels, namely propane, natural gas, charcoal, pellet, or electric grill. The most convenient and popularly used ones are:

• Charcoal: Charcoal grills provide that classic smoky flavor and slow cooking experience but require more time to set up and maintain.
• Propane/Gas: These grills are convenient, quick to start, and offer precise temperature control. They are often a great choice for tailgating.

1. Accessories: Some grills come with extra features like side tables, warming racks, or built-in thermometers. Consider what additional features might enhance your grilling experience.

Using a tailgate grill is fairly simple as these compact instruments come with safety devices and a manual. However, before starting your grill, ensure to set it up in a safe and well-ventilated area that is away from flammable materials and in compliance with local fire safety regulations.

1. Prepare the Grill: If you're using a charcoal grill, start by filling the grill's charcoal chamber with the appropriate amount of charcoal. If you have a propane or gas grill, make sure the propane tank is securely attached and that you have a full tank of gas.
2. Ignite the Grill: For a charcoal grill, use a chimney starter or charcoal lighter fluid to ignite the charcoal. Once the coals are white-hot and glowing, spread them out evenly on the grill. For a propane or gas grill, open the lid and turn on the gas. Follow your grill's specific instructions for lighting the burners. 
3. Preheat the Grill: Close the grill's lid and allow it to preheat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps burn off any residue from previous use and ensures the grill grates are hot and ready for cooking.
4. Prepare Your Food: While the grill is preheating, season and prepare the food you plan to cook. Marinate, season, and skewer your items if necessary.
5. Oil the Grill Grates: Use a grill brush or a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to lightly grease the grill surface to prevent your food from sticking.
6. Grill Your Food: Place your prepared food on the hot grill grates. Use tongs or a spatula to flip and move the items as needed. Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent temperature and flavor.
7. Monitor And Adjust Heat: If you're using a gas grill, you can adjust the temperature by turning the burner control knobs. For a portable charcoal grill, you can control the heat by adjusting the vents. 
8. Cook to Perfection: Cook your food until it reaches the desired level of doneness. 
9. Serve And Enjoy: Once your food is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and serve it immediately.
10. Clean Up: After your tailgating event, allow the grill to cool down. Clean the grates and any other removable parts.
11. Pack And Store: Ensure that your grill is cool and secure before packing it up for transport. Safely store any propane tanks or charcoal.

Conclusion:

Tailgate grills are the best way to set off on an adventure and host barbeque brunches or sporting events. Therefore, in this article, we discussed the best tailgate grills that are versatile, compact, and portable without compromising on aesthetics. They offer an array of essential features that will help you cook up a juicy steak in the woods within a few minutes. Although these grills are safe, we do recommend you follow the instruction manual that comes with your tailgate grill to ensure safety and efficiency. Additionally, be mindful of safety guidelines and local regulations while grilling in outdoor locations.