Shield your grill from the elements to keep it from rusting or prematurely aging. If you lack an indoor storage option, keeping the grill covered and off the ground is the best line of defense against harsh weather. Weber makes affordable covers for both the Q 1200 and Q 2200 (sold separately), and we strongly recommend the investment. The carrying case (sold separately) for the Char-Broil Grill2Go isn’t weatherproof, but you can use a heavy-duty contractor-style garbage bag or a tarp for protection. This larger version of our pick offers more cooking area and higher heat output.
That said, the nonstick grate didn’t stick, even to delicate fish filets, and was able to brown and crisp the skin nicely. The grill was simple to assemble and fire up, making it easy to attach a 1-pound propane tank; this was notably difficult with some of the other models we tested. Plus, we figured out the drip tray can be used as a water basin for steaming and could add a herbaceous quality by simply weber charcoal grill adding herbs or foraged greenery. But we also didn’t love the construction of the RoadTrip 225; it feels a little cheaply built, and the lid doesn’t have a lock to hold it in place when you’re moving the grill around. Make sure you have a stable tabletop to put this on, and don’t try to move it until it’s fully cooled. If price is your number one consideration, you may want to think about it.
It also has a bit of a flimsy latch which isn’t a big problem if you spring for the $40 carrying case. The Coleman is super lightweight clocking in at just over 10 pounds which makes it an ideal grill to take camping, hiking or on a boat. It’s also exceptionally portable, flipping up into a package no bigger than a large purse or day bag. But all that compactness doesn’t keep it from burning a hot flame with 6,000 BTUs of propane-fueled power giving you proper searing capabilities in a seriously travel-friendly size. This grill is for serious tailgaters and is specifically designed to ride on the back of a car attached to a hitch.
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In my testing, the Mini Big Green Egg has excellent heat control and, like the larger version, is extremely fuel-efficient. That’s a lot of hype, and I was prepared to be underwhelmed, but the Takibi lives up to the hype and then some. It folds flat, leaving more room in your trunk; the grill top is a grid so small things won’t fall through, and when you’re done cooking it turns into a fire pit. There is an add-on cast iron coal bed ($26) that holds charcoal, but I don’t see it as necessary (nice to have perhaps, but not necessary). I wanted to love this model because the concept is great but it does have some flaws. For one, it feels a little bit cheap and I read in several reviews that it can rust and peel over time.