Portable BBQs & Grills for Camping — Australian Buying Guide 2026

Portable gas BBQs are the most practical choice for most Australian campers and caravanners. They light quickly, are easy to control and do not produce the ash and ember risks associated with charcoal or wood. Most portable gas BBQs run on standard LPG cartridges or connect to a larger LPG cylinder via a hose adaptor. Look for a model with a sturdy folding stand or legs, a lid for indirect cooking, and a cooking surface large enough for your group.

Compact grills with a grill plate are good for cooking meat and vegetables over direct heat. Flat-plate (hotplate) cookers are more versatile — they can cook eggs, bacon, pancakes and other foods that would fall through a grill. Many portable BBQs include both a grill and a flat plate, or allow you to swap between them. For camp breakfasts, a flat plate is particularly useful.

Charcoal BBQs produce excellent flavour but have significant practical limitations for camping. They take longer to light and reach cooking temperature, produce ash that must be disposed of safely, and are prohibited during fire bans and at many campgrounds. Charcoal and wood-burning BBQs are generally not permitted during total fire bans in any Australian state or territory. Always check current fire restrictions before using any solid-fuel cooking appliance.

Cooking area is measured in square centimetres. A compact portable BBQ with 1,000–1,500cm² of cooking surface suits 2–3 people. For families of 4–6, look for 2,000cm² or more. Consider how many burners you need — a single-burner BBQ is fine for simple meals, but a twin-burner model gives you more flexibility to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.

Portable BBQs range from compact fold-flat models weighing under 3kg to larger freestanding units weighing 10kg or more. For caravanners with a dedicated storage bay, a larger model is practical. For those with limited storage, a compact fold-flat BBQ that packs into a carry bag is a better choice. Check the packed dimensions against your available storage space before buying.

A standard 220g gas cartridge typically provides 1–2 hours of cooking time on a portable BBQ, depending on the burner size and heat setting. For extended trips, connect your BBQ to a larger LPG cylinder via a hose adaptor — this is more economical and reduces the number of cartridges you need to carry. Check that your BBQ is compatible with the adaptor type for your LPG cylinder before purchasing.

Wind is a significant challenge for outdoor cooking in Australia. Look for a BBQ with a lid and side panels that provide some wind protection. A portable windbreak can also help. For cleaning, most portable BBQ cooking surfaces can be wiped down with a damp cloth or scrubbed with a BBQ brush while still warm. Removable drip trays make cleaning easier. Avoid using harsh chemicals on cooking surfaces.

Always set up your BBQ on a stable, level surface away from flammable materials including dry grass, leaves and tent fabric. Follow the manufacturer's recommended clearance distances from structures and vegetation. Gas BBQs are generally permitted during total fire bans in most Australian states and territories, but rules vary by jurisdiction and can change during extreme fire conditions. Never operate a solid-fuel or gas BBQ contrary to current fire-ban or campground rules. Check the relevant state or territory fire authority website for current restrictions before your trip.