Best Tailgate Grills in 2022 – Review & Buying Guide

You would never talk about complete tailgating without delicious grilled foods. The best moments in life are those shared with family and friends. And nothing would work better for you than having the best tailgating grill. In this article, we will list down the five best tailgate grills in the market today. We will also give you tips on choosing the best tailgating grills.

Best Tailgate Grills -2022

1.Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

1.Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

Just because you have decided to be away from the comfort of your home doesn't mean you shouldn't have fun. With Coleman RoadTrip, it is possible to feel at home tailgating with your family and friends at your favorite events.

Features

You would never understand what this means until you dig deep into this grill's features, as listed below.

1. Reliable

When tailgating your favorite event, you need a grill that will give you a reliable and at-home experience. You need a grill that will help you shine easily as you comfortably grill just as you would in your backyard or patio. This is precisely what Coleman RoadTrip had in mind when designing their 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill model.

2. Relatively Large Cooking Surface

With this grill, you will be provided with 285 square inches of grilling area with as high as 20,000 BTUs gripping power. This makes our grill one of the best options for people who love grilling on the go. The 285 square inches grilling surface means you can cook a lot of food at a trial, perfect for hungry pre-gamer.

3. Features 3 Independently Adjustable Burners

Most of the portable grills we have in the market offer one or two burners. Therefore, Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a unique piece as it offers you a total of 3 independently adjustable burners. The grill also features an integrated thermometer that comes in handy when regulating the temperatures resulting in a perfect sear.

The Coleman's push-button ignition system is also an essential feature as it lights the grill without matches. Hence, you have nothing to worry about when packing for a trip as far as burning the grill is concerned.

4. Easy To Clean

For any experienced griller, you understand how important it is to get an easy-to-clean portable grill. It would be so disappointing to bring your grilling experience to a halt simply because you couldn't get that stubborn dirt off your grill.

Therefore Coleman thought it wise to incorporate a removable water pan in their unit to catch cooking grease. This resulted in a quick and hassle-free cleaning with no scrub down involved.

5. It is Convenient

The fact that you are in a parking lot doesn't mean that you can't enjoy your favorite grilled food. The side table on Coleman RoadTrip on both sides slides out for your drinks and utensils. Hence, you will be offered a great and unique portable kitchen experience.

Just because the grill is portable doesn't mean it is wobbly. Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a sturdy portable grill, and hence, you have nothing to worry about when barbecuing.

6. Easy To Store

When you are done with and cleaning up the grill, just fold the grill right up. To make it easy to fit in tight spaces, you can store it upright until your next trip. In case you need to move it around, it has two wheels to ease with the movement. The grill has scissor legs, making it possible to fold it up and roll it out like a suitcase.

Pros

  • Collapsible design makes it easily portable.
  • Relatively large cooking surface (285 square inches) with up to 20,000 BTUs cooking power.
  •  two durable working tables for resting sauces and utensils. 
  • Accurate temperature monitoring thanks to the integrated thermometer. 
  • Matchless lighting as it features an instant ignition push-button system. 
  • Features 3 independently adjustable burners that result in enhanced temperature control.
  • Easy to clean thanks to the removable water pan set to catch cooking grease.
  • Easy to assemble as it takes just a few minutes to get it done. 

Cons

  • To ensure the grill's stability, the wheels have to be placed on a flat surface.
  • Although it is easy to store and transport due to the collapsible design, unfortunately, the grill is heavy.

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

This grill was definitely designed with tailgating fans in mind. Coleman RoadTrip can be broken down and features a small footprint making it easy to transport. The ability to change the grill top and the easy-start ignition makes this the best overall portable gas grill for tailgating.

2. Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill

2. Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill

When we talk of class as far as any type of grilling is concerned, Weber products will always top the list. There is no difference when it comes to tailgating. Weber Q2200 offers you ease and quality cook, complete convenience well as class.

Features

Below are a few features that make the Weber Q2200 our overall best.

1. Reliable And Ease Of Use

Weber has been known over the years for producing quality components that are reliable and easy to use. Whether you are going for the large models or the smaller range like the tabletop Q2200, the quality is never compromised. Our main reason for planning tailgating is to have fun and nothing less, and hence, we would be disappointed to get a grill that drives us crazy to get started.

2. Durable

Tailgating is not something that we do every day. Therefore, we should make sure that we select a grill that will last us for decades. Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill is one of the best and most durable portable grills you will find in the market. The grill experience is perfect, and there will be no need to replace the unit season after season.

If you are cooking for a smaller group, you can comfortably use this grill as your regular backyard companion.

3. Cooking Surface

Tailgating usually is something that we plan. This means we know the number of people expected to be involved and so forth. Therefore, we know the exact amount of cooking surface needed. With this grill, you are provided with a solid 280 square inches with a power output of 12,000 BTUs. This is among the most potent small-sized grills.

The cooking grates' quality is not compromised as it is the same as what you get on Weber's bigger grills. The grates are made of porcelain-coated cast iron resulting in a long cook life and even heating.

4. Very Convenient

The grill features a push-button electronic ignition system for a quick and easy start. For temperature control, there is a thermometer built-in on the lid. No matter where you are, Weber ensures that you get a magical grilling experience. The two foldable working tables for preparing and holding your food fresh from the grate makes things much more comfortable.

This means you will not need to carry an extra working table to place your food while cooking. The two working tables are placed on both sides. Hence, one can prepare meals while you place already cooked food on the other side.

5. Easily Portable

Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill is light in weight thanks to its cast aluminum construction. This makes it easily portable, as you can quickly load it into your trunk when you are about to hit the stadium for your tailgating event.

The grill also makes it possible for you to use a griddle that is purchased separately. This is a great advantage, especially if you love camping and would want to bust out some eggs and pancakes using the grill. If buying the grill for tailgating, you can also add an optional cart base to ensure the grill stands firm without a tabletop or an actual tailgate.

Pros

  • Heats evenly.
  • 280 square inches of grilling surface. 
  • Quite powerful (12,000 BTUs) for its size. 
  • Light in weight and hence easily portable.
  • Easy to start thanks to the push-button electronic ignition system.
  • Cooking grates features porcelain-coated cast iron for durability.
  • Excellent temperature control, thanks to the built-in thermometer.

Cons

  • The optional griddles have to be purchased separately.

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

Weber Q2200 is a reliable grill that guarantees perfect service, just as its bigger Weber counterparts would offer. This makes it a reliable and no regrets pick, especially if you are looking for a unit you can rely on for an easy and consistent cook wherever you go!

3. Giantex Propane Tabletop Gas Grill Stainless Steel Two-Burner

3. Giantex Propane Tabletop Gas Grill Stainless Steel Two-Burner

This grill from Giantex has been titled the "Baby beast" because of its compact yet powerful feature. Expert grillers who understand what quality is will agree that Giantex Propane Tabletop grill is worth trying.

Features

Below are some features that make Giantex Propane Grill fit in our best tailgate grills list.

1. Roomy Cooking Surface

Although the grill's cooking area is not as spacious as the two mentioned above, it is quite spacious at 266 square inches. The grill offers you 2 stainless steel burners that are U-shaped with 20,000 BTUs of grilling power. This is a little rare for a tabletop grill.

The dual burners are a bit more flexible and fine-tuned than some of the other options in the market. This explains why the grill fits in our top best tailgating grills.

2. Durability

When going for any home appliance, we hope to get a unit that will not disappoint us as far as quality and durability is concerned. Giantex Propane Tabletop gas grills are constructed of 430-stainless steel that guarantees you maximum longevity and durability. The cooking is made of heavy-duty stainless steel, which is durable and heats evenly and consistently.

3. Easily Portable

One of the good qualities of a right grill is its ease of cleaning. This grill is very easy to clean, and hence, you will have no problem using it on the go. At the same time, it features foldable legs with a locking lid. This means you can fold the grill and carry it by the handle in a suitcase-style.

This grill looks shiny and professional, and at the same time, it looks just like the big boys. But its advantage is its compact size, which makes it possible to pop it in a trunk or store it in a cabinet in your RV. This makes the baby beast a perfect and solid pick for the best Tailgate grill fans who enjoy tailgating and other outdoor activities. Give it a try and enjoy the magic!

Pros

  • Easy to use.
  • The grill is also easy to clean.
  • Quite powerful with up to 20,000 BTUs of cooking power.
  • This grill is constructed from 430-stainless steel that results in maximum durability and longevity.
  •  Easily portable thanks to the foldable legs with a locking lid that transforms the grill into a suitcase-style.
  •  The heavy-duty stainless steel cooking grates heat evenly and consistently.
  •  Giantex Propane's dual burners offer you some flexibility and fine-tuning, which are not available in other tailgating grills.

Cons

  • The cooking space is a bit small (266 square inches).

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

Giantex Propane Tabletop Gas Grills Stainless Steel Two-Burner is the best choice for a dedicated griller. It is no longer about going with the top models in the market, it is about choosing a grill that will never disappoint you. With Gigantex, you get nothing but the best!

4. Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill

4. Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR Portable Infrared Propane Gas Grill

When you attend an event, you have many things to do but waiting for food to cook appears nowhere on the list. Getting excited and catching up with friends tops the list, and it should always do. This is the reason why we recommend this magical grill.

Features

A mere look at this grill might not be enough to convince you of its quality. However, the features listed below will surely do:

1. Capable of Producing Very High Heat

This grill sports great infrared heat that makes it perfect for searing on the go. Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR features fast and intense heat that lets you grill up almost any type of food within a short time. The high heat is also essential in the maintenance of the grill. This is because your grill will stay clean as any residue is easily incinerated into ash.

2. Easy To Assemble

The fact that we are fans of grilling doesn't mean we enjoy everything about grilling. One of the most annoying parts is usually the assembling process. What we want is to light the grill and start the grilling process immediately. Unfortunately, this is, however, not the case with many grills in the market.

With Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR, you will only need to attach bolts and handles, and you will be good to go. This means it is one of the best choices for grilling on the go.

3. Cooking Surface

The success of any relationship is determined by the amount of quality time you spend with each other. Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR gives you an opportunity of spending quality grilling time with your spouse. This is because the grill is small in size and hence, perfectly suitable for individuals or couples who plan to spend some time away from home.

However, if it is the only grill available, you can use it for a group of people as it cooks very fast. The only shortcoming is that you will spend a lot of time keeping the food moving.

Pros

  • It works pretty fast.
  •  Portable Infrared grilling technology· Produces a total of 14,000 BTUs of power per hour. 
  • Features an electronic push-button ignition system that makes it easier for you to light the grill without a match. 
  • Provides you with a total of 155 square inches of cooking surface.· Looking at the infrared intensity scale, the grill scores a 61.1. 
  • The grill's bottom is compatible with different Solaire accessory amounts giving you a more convenient unit. 
  • Utilizes V-shaped stainless steel grilling grids. This comes in handy in reducing the number of flare-ups when grilling fatty foods.
  • Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR features a commercial-grade, stainless steel welded structure. 
  • At the same time, the grilling grids enhance the flavor level obtained from your grilled food.

Cons

  • When compared to other grills under this category, this features a much smaller cooking surface. 
  • Although the powerful heating elements on this grill are sometimes treated as an advantage, they can also be a disadvantage. This is because you have to keep a close eye on the grill when in operation to avoid burning your food. 
  • With all factors considered, the price tag of Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR is regarded as a little steeper.

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

When compared with some other grills that are better placed than it, Solaire SOL-IRI7BWR has been considered a bit pricey by many grillers. However, considering its small size, consistent high-quality and fast sears making it easier to travel with.

5.Napoleon TravelQ Pro Portable Gas Grill With Cart And Side Shelf Kit

5.Napoleon TravelQ Pro Portable Gas Grill With Cart And Side Shelf Kit

Tailgating should be an experience that you will live to remember. The grill you choose highly depends on the number of people expected to be served from the unit. In case you need a regular size grill, you would never go wrong by trying out the Napoleon TravelQ. This is a serious contender.

Features

Looking at Napoleon TravelQ Pro Portable Gas Grill features, we can understand why we considered it in this list.

1. Convenient To Use

Height is of paramount importance when grilling. Many large grills tend to have a reliable measurement that is not available in most small grills. With Napoleon TravelQ, stands up to waist height when unfolded. This helps you enjoy the grilling experience basically as you'd get when using a stationary set-up. The side tables expand your working space for utensils or food preparation.

The Napoleon unit operates on movable propane cylinders. You can convert it to utilize a 20-pound propane tank just like any other regular-sized grill if need be. The conversion kit is, however, purchased separately.

2. The Grill is Super Compact

Tailgating means traveling around with your grill. This means that you would need an easily portable and super compact unit. When it is time to pack up, there is a locking lid on the Napoleon, legs, and side handles. All these come with a cart that allows you to wrap your grill up and go!

3. Quite Powerful For Its Size

Considering this is a portable grill, it is quite powerful. Two stainless steel burners allow you to enjoy both indirect and direct grilling, depending on your preference. The grilling power produced by Napoleon TravelQ is up to 12,000 BTUs. However, there are some other grills under this list that are much stronger than it.

The power, size, and dual burner system on Napoleon give you better temperature control. This is because it doesn't get too hot too fast as compared to some other portable grills.

4. Offers Even-Heat Transfer

One of the most common downsides of portable grills is getting even heat transfer across the cooking surface. Luckily, with Napoleon, you will have nothing to worry about. This is because the grill features heavy-duty porcelain-coated "wave" cooking grids. The 12,000 BTUs grilling power is evenly spread across its 285 square inches of cooking surface.

It is now possible to enjoy perfectly grilled foods while away from home. The grill distributes heat across your food as well as providing a non-stick surface.

Pros

  • Quite powerful for such a compact portable grill.
  • The cooking surface of 285 square inches is relatively large.
  • The size, power, and dual burner system of this grill gives you better temperature control.
  • Fast and even heat transfer that results in perfectly cooked food. 
  • The locking side handles, lid, and legs on Napoleon makes the grill easily portable. 
  • With Napoleon TravelQ, you are offered two stainless steel burners that allow you to use both direct and indirect grilling experience.

Cons

  • Not much is said about its durability.

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

When buying the best Tailgate grill in 2022, we want a sturdy unit that is easy to move around and easy to set up. Napoleon TravelQ is made of stainless steel and aluminum, enabling it to handle some bruises and bumps while on the road. It quickly and comfortably takes a little beating!

6.Blackstone Tabletop Grill – 22 Inch Portable

6.Blackstone Tabletop Grill – 22 Inch Portable

When we talk about the flat top grills, Blackstone is killing it. The release of this smaller 22 inches model into the market was a real game-changer. The grill might be small in size, but it is worth fitting on our list of best tailgating grills thanks to its quality and overall value of experience.

Features

This grill sports unique features, some of which are listed below:

1. Light In Weight

This grill is very light in weight and comes in two different sizes (17 inches or 22 inches). The grill offers you a massive cooking surface of 330 square inches, perfectly fit to feed a standard number of hungry gamers.

2. Convenient

As mentioned above, this grill is roomy and a solid performer. At the same time, it offers you independently controlled 2 H burners. This means you can use one grill for cooking up a few brat dogs or juicy burgers while the other is used for grilling some veggies.

3. Less Risk of Flare-ups

Blackstone Tabletop Grill is a griddle-style. One of the main benefits of using this grilling style is the reduced risk of flavor leaks and flare-ups. If you are a lover of meat and planning to grill as much meat as possible. With this grill, it is less likely to overcook the heart, leading to a charred mess resulting in flare-ups.

At the same time, there is a rear grease management system outfitted on this model. This helps in drawing the grease away from your food resulting in an easy cleanup afterward.

Pros

  • Offers you a quality and valuable experience. 
  • The grill is light in size and comes in two different sizes: 7 inches and 22 inches.
  • Relatively large cooking surface of 330 square inches.
  • Roomy and reliable performer grill thanks to its independently controlled 2 H burners. 
  • The griddle-style makes it safe for grilling fatty meats. 
  • Less overcooked meats and lost flavor thanks to the griddle-style of this grill. 
  • Features a rear grease management system that draws grease away from the food. Hence, resulting in the easy cleanup. 
  • The price tag of this grill is super reasonable considering its all unique features.

Cons

  • Might not be the perfect choice of the grill when cooking some foods due to the griddle-style. 
  • Might be a bit challenging for first-time grillers.

Why do We Recommend this Grill?

Many grillers have considered this grill a carry-on version of the exclusive Blackstone's 36 inches 4 burners. However, unlike the Blackstone model, this comes at a more reasonable price tag. Hence, it's an excellent pick for anyone looking for a compact unit for a comfortable tailgating experience!

Best Tailgating Grills Buying Guide

When we think about tailgating, the next thing that comes into our mind is a reliable grilling unit. For experienced grillers, this is as easy as ABCD; however, it must prove a great challenge for beginners. Therefore, we thought it fair to prepare a buying guide that lists all the things you should expect from a right tailgating grill.

1.

Gas or Charcoal

One of the most important questions you should ask yourself is the fuel source of your grill. This will be determined by the convenience and results of your foods. For example, if you generally want well-cooked and smoky flavored meat, a charcoal grill will do. However, this doesn't mean that you won't get well-cooked meats with a gas grill. However, it will not have a smoky, distinct flavor.

 

On the other hand, a gas grill is faster, cleaner, and easier to use. It also requires less maintenance compared to a charcoal grill. At the same time, a gas grill works on disposable liquid propane and home connection containers. To make the grillwork with a larger tank, you may purchase an accessory hose and an adapter separately

 
2.

Lid

Although it might be disappointing, it is more important to know some grills come without a lid. Therefore, you must be ready to buy a proper lid or casing separately to ensure the grill doesn't succumb to harsh weather conditions.

In case you buy a grill with a lid, ensure it has a secure lockdown mechanism for more comfortable and greater portability. The lid should also have a top handle for lifting it. For the user's safety, it shouldn't get boiling. An ample headspace of a-not less than 12 inches is needed to provide enough space to fit in your foods.

3.

Material

Most of these grills are made of heavy-gauge stainless steel, cast aluminum, porcelain enamel coat, or cast iron on them. Ensure there are very little or possible no plastic parts on the grill of your choice. This is because the high heat generated may cause melting on the plastic parts.

4.

Ventilation

Ventilation is another essential aspect of any grill. The charcoal burns much better while more air is flowing through the grill; hence, the better the heat distribution. Many grills have dampers made of aluminum set at the top of the grill to let in air. It is also possible to control the opening of the air vents.

5.

Ash Collection Tray

The ash collection tray is very common in many charcoal grills. However, some gas grills feature the ashtray for collecting fats, grease, and liquids, among other drips from the foods. There is also a tray in many charcoal grills, a bin, or a basket placed at the bottom of the grill. This is meant to collect ash from the burnt charcoal and other drippings.


The ashtray should be able to collect maximum ash without the need to recover and emptying it frequently. Therefore, it should be large enough. At the same time, it should be removable, as this makes it easy to clean.

6.

 Cleanup

The best grills should have some dishwasher-safe parts like the lid, the grate, and the ashtray, among others. Some grills allow easy disassembling of the unit to ensure these parts easily fit in the dishwasher. Clean and use the grill cautiously to give the grill longevity.


Some of these parts require frequent clean up than others. To ensure you maintain a grease-free grill, use a paper towel to wipe these parts frequently. In case you are using a charcoal grill made of cast iron, make sure you grease the grill before and after. This does not only make it easier to maintain the grill, but it also results in better seasoning.

7.

Side Tables

Getting a grill with foldable plastic side tables is an added advantage. The raw materials and the already cooked foods can be placed on these side tables. However, if you don't need the side tables, you can easily remove them.

8.

Legs

This is an essential part of a grill as it makes it convenient and easily portable, especially for outdoor usage. The best legs are those that easily open out without creating a hassle. It must be securely and strongly bolted or clamped to the grill itself to reduce the danger of toppling or wobbling.

Good legs are those that ensure the stability of your grill. Using foldable legs is much more comfortable as they make the grill more compact and easily movable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Tailgate Grills

a. What is tailgating?

Tailgating refers to that sizeable social gathering that takes place around different football games around the globe. The gathering is mainly based on the back of vans or cars, and the parties commonly involve a barbecue and lots of beer.

b. What do I need for tailgating?

Besides drinks, good food, and a grill, it will be essential to have a group flag, a portable propane generator, and grill covers. You will also need a small gazebo or umbrella, trash bags, extra power cords in case you need some, as well as toilet papers.

c. How do you tailgate?

There are no set rules for tailgating; however, every group has its own set rules. The game fan is to ensure you abide by all the rules you set as a team. To make things easier, bring meat that can quickly cook under medium or high temperatures.

d. What are some of the best tailgating recipes?

Any classic BBQ favorite should top tailgate recipes. Apart from the usual feasts of nachos, burgers, and hot dogs, you wouldn't go wrong with pizza tarts and apple pies. You can also try out pulled pork cups, chicken skewers, and spicy chicken wings, among others.

Conclusion

If you love tailgating, it would be wise to invest in good quality and easily portable and Best Tailgate Grill. With the above-detailed review, you will have no problem choosing the best unit for your next tailgating experience!