Football season is upon us. For many, this means fantasy football. For others, it means rooting for the home team with family at home. But for everybody, football season is synonymous a good old fashioned tailgate party. And if you want to tailgate like a pro, you’ve got to start with the best possible tailgate barbecue.
In many tailgating circles, a great barbecue is a status symbol. But we would argue it’s more than that. A great tailgating grill can be the difference between mediocre food and phenomenal food you’ll never forget. Which one would you rather have?
If this article has started you thinking that you might be due for an upgrade, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the best tailgating barbecues and listed them here in no particular order, and in a variety of styles and price ranges. We’re sure you’re about to find a grill you’re going to love – all we ask in return is that you save us a burger the next time you tailgate.
1. Martin Bistro Gas Grill – $249.99
One of the most important aspects of an amazing tailgating grill is its portability, and the Martin Bistro gas grill is nothing if not portable. It has collapsible legs and not one, but two stainless steel burners so you can cook more than one dish at the same time or simply cook your meat at different temperatures. This handy grill is ideal for whipping up a quick tailgating snack or a full-on meal.
2. Bayou Classic Propane Griddle – $99.95
You’ll be the envy of the party when you serve up chocolate chip pancakes from your Bayou Classic griddle on those early morning home games. And if the game starts later the following week? No problem. You can use it to make hamburgers and hot dogs, too.
The griddle even has a drain to catch grease for healthier cooking. It’s a tailgater’s dream come true.
3. Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker – $123.27
Do you prefer the authenticity of a charcoal grill? This egg-shaped portable grill uses the extra heat generated by ceramic to use less charcoal than you would with a regular grill. The insulated design cuts down on airflow while you cook, resulting in moister, juicier meat.
4. Char-Broil Deluxe Liquid Propane Gas Grill – $41.74
The two best features of this grill are its portability and its low price. It’s lightweight and folds into a rectangle you can easily throw into small spaces like the trunk of your car. You can place it on top of a picnic table or the back of a truck bed to get those burgers going. This grill is ready to spring into action at a moments notice and it can be the hero of the day.
5. Coleman Roadtrip LX Gas Grill – $275.99
Coleman is one of the best-known names in camping equipment. And, yes, they make a pretty amazing tailgating grill, too. This grill detaches from the collapsible platform for ease of transportation and storage. This barbecue includes both a griddle and a grill for maximum versatility. With this many features, you’re sure to be the envy of the block.
6. Pro Series Toolbox Pro – $79.99
Speaking of reasonably priced, portable grills, what could be cooler than this toolbox shaped grill? But our favorite part of the grill isn’t the exterior or even the reasonable price. It’s the leak-free engineering which means you can transfer this grill to your car or truck without worrying about clean-up.
7. Weber Outdoor Living Cooking Propane Grill – $299.99
Weber is known for high-end barbecues and this 40.9-inch grill is no exception. This is a rust-resistant grill with a built-in thermometer on the lid. The grill is cast iron with a removable drip pan for easy cleanup. There is also two fold out platforms for staging and food prep. This is one amazing tailgating barbecue.
8. Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Grill – $96.53
When most people think of Cuisinart they think of small kitchen appliances, but they also make a pretty fantastic grill. The grates are coated with porcelain and the legs kick out in seconds for easy setup. It also features a carrying handle for easy portability, which is a key part of a great tailgating grill. You’re going to love it.
9. George Foreman Portable Propane Grill – $78.00
One of the many reasons this unit makes our list of best tailgating barbecues is it’s removable, reversible plate. It’s a grill on one side, a griddle on the other. Talk about versatile! You can even pop the plate in your dishwasher for easy clean up once you get home. It also features a push-button start and a convenient strap for easy, lightweight carrying.
10. Mystin Charcoal BBQ Grill – $59.99
This charcoal barbecue is lightweight and folds up into the shape of a suitcase. It’s easy to carry around. In other words, it’s perfect for tailgating. You can set it up on a table, truck bed, or any flat surface and the pieces come apart for easy cleanup.
11. Blackstone Grills Tailgater – $176.63
This grill was specifically designed for tailgating. It offers both a griddle and a grill so you don’t have to choose between breakfast and dinner. It also has adjustable legs, and two burners. It was designed for portability and easy setup. The grates are made of cast iron for quality and durability. What’s not to like?
12. Cook-Air Wood Fired Portable Grill – $131.32
Food tastes delicious when it’s cooked over a wood fire, which is why we simply had to include this terrific tailgating grill. A five-speed fan allows you to control the temperature to make sure your tailgating feed comes out just right. This portable grill weighs less than 22 pounds and the base stays cool for safety and peace of mind.
So, go ahead and heat up that griddle or fire up that grill. Cue the hamburgers, hot dogs, and pancakes! Tailgating has never been so fun. Or so delicious.
