Best pick: Cuisinart Petite Gourmet — the best small gas grill for camping for portability and performance.
I’ve stood in rain, wind, and under pine trees with one goal: a hot, even sear in the middle of nowhere. Small gas grills change a camping meal from rationed cold snacks to real, satisfying barbecue. They save time, cut smoke, and fit in the trunk. If you want reliable heat, fast start, and easy cleanup at camp, the best small gas grill for camping does that without fuss.
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas…
SPACIOUS COOKING AREA: Portable BBQ grill with 150 sq. in. porcelain-enameled grate fits up to 8 burgers or 6-10 chicken breasts, perfect for family meals POWERFUL HEAT: 5,500 BTU burner…
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet Portable Gas…
SPACIOUS COOKING AREA: Portable BBQ grill with 150 sq. in. porcelain-enameled grate fits up to 8 burgers or 6-10 chicken breasts, perfect for family meals POWERFUL HEAT: 5,500 BTU burner…
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet – Compact 150 sq in
I use the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet all the time when I want a simple camp grill. It gives about 150 sq. in. of cooking area. The single 5,500 BTU burner lights fast. The folding legs and handles make it easy to carry. The red finish still hides dirt well after muddy trips.
The grill heats evenly for burgers and fish. Cleanup is quick with the porcelain-coated grate. I run it on a small 1-lb propane canister for hours if I watch the flame. It’s a compact unit that fits in small cars and under the back seat of many trucks.
Pros:
- Very portable with folding legs and carry handles—easy to haul to camp.
- 150 sq. in. cooking surface fits 6-8 burgers at once.
- Quick hot-up time—ready in minutes for hungry campers.
- Porcelain-coated grill grates resist sticking and clean up fast.
- Solid ignition system that lights reliably in wind when sheltered.
- Lightweight and compact for solo trips or small groups.
Cons:
- Single burner limits high-heat searing for large steaks.
- Small drip tray can need emptying mid-use on greasy cooking.
- No built-in temperature gauge—requires experience to judge heat.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet for campers who value light weight and simple setup. It’s ideal for solo campers, couples, and small families who need a dependable cook surface that fits in tight storage. The grill gives fast heat and consistent results, so it’s a strong choice when you want the best small gas grill for camping without extra bulk.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Solo campers | Light and compact for backpack or car trips. |
| Weekend duos | Enough cooking area for two to four meals. |
| Quick cooks | Fast heat-up for meals on a tight schedule. |
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet VersaStand – Compact
The VersaStand version of the Petite Gourmet gives everything I like about the base model. The main plus is the adjustable stand. That makes it easier to put on uneven camp tables or to lift the grill off a wet ground. The same 150 sq. in. grate and 5,500 BTU burner are included.
In camp, I found the stand helpful when cooking for a small group. It keeps heat off plastic tables and raises the grill to a comfortable working height. The unit is still compact and folds for storage. It’s a bit more versatile for people who need a stable setup on different surfaces.
Pros:
- Included VersaStand makes setup flexible on uneven ground or picnic tables.
- Same compact and portable design as the standard Petite Gourmet.
- 150 sq. in. surface handles family-style cooking for small groups.
- Easy to clean porcelain-coated grates reduce post-cook work.
- Stable base reduces wobble when flipping larger cuts or using heavier pans.
- Excellent for car campers who want a level cooking surface anywhere.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than the base model because of the stand.
- Stand hardware can be awkward to assemble in low light.
- Still a single-burner design—limits multi-zone cooking.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet VersaStand when you need more setup options. If you cook at camp on tables, logs, or spare boxes, the VersaStand prevents wobble and keeps the grill at a good height. For many campers, it’s the best small gas grill for camping for usability across surfaces.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Camp cooks needing stability | Stand prevents wobble on uneven surfaces. |
| Small families | Enough space for multiple items at once. |
| Car campers | Compact storage with flexible setup options. |
FAQs Of best small gas grill for camping
How do I choose the best small gas grill for camping?
Pick a grill that balances weight, cooking area, and fuel type. I look for 100–200 sq. in. of cooking space. Portability and a reliable ignition are key. Also check if it runs on 1-lb propane canisters for easy refills.
Can a small gas grill really sear steaks well at camp?
Yes, but expect limits. Single-burner small grills can sear thin steaks and burgers if preheated. For thick steaks, I use multiple short sears and rest times. The best small gas grill for camping gives good sear for most casual meals.
Do these grills work in wind or light rain?
They do, with shelter. I position the grill behind a windbreak or inside a three-sided gazebo. The ignition and flame hold are strong on Cuisinart models if not directly blasted by wind. Avoid using them in heavy rain.
How long does a 1-lb propane canister last on these grills?
Run time varies with flame level. At medium heat I get 1.5–3 hours on a 1-lb can. High heat reduces that. I bring a spare canister for multi-day trips or long cooks. The best small gas grill for camping conserves fuel if you manage the flame.
Are these grills safe for camping near a tent?
Keep the grill at least 6 feet from tents and flammable gear. Use a stable surface and never cook inside a tent. I always clear the area and have water or a fire extinguisher close by. Safety matters more than convenience.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want the purest mix of portability and reliable cooking, I recommend the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet as the best small gas grill for camping. It heats fast, packs small, and cooks evenly for most camp meals.
Choose the VersaStand model if you need stability and a raised platform. Both models deliver great value and make camping meals easier and tastier.
