Detailed reviews of the top 7 compact BBQs

 

Detailed reviews of the top 7 compact BBQs ideal for motorhome and caravanning use:

 

🔥 1. Weber Go-Anywhere Gas or Charcoal BBQ

⭐ Rating: 4.5/5

Weber Go-Anywhere

The Weber Go-Anywhere is a trusted favourite among touring enthusiasts for good reason. Whether you go with the gas or charcoal version, it offers reliable Weber quality in a suitcase-style compact form. The steel legs fold over the lid to lock it in place, making it easy to store and transport. The cooking surface is well-sized for two to three people and the heat distribution is very even. The gas version is ultra-convenient with push-button ignition, while the charcoal model gives you that traditional BBQ flavour.

 

✅ Pros: Well-built, portable, even heat

❌ Cons: Cooking area is small

Ideal for: Quick meals on the go or small gatherings

 

🔥 2. Cadac Safari Chef 30 Compact

⭐️ Rating: 5/5

Cadac Safari Chef 30 Compact

The Cadac Safari Chef 30 Compact is a powerhouse in a small package. It’s one of the most popular BBQs among motorhome owners thanks to its versatility – it includes multiple interchangeable cooking surfaces (grill, plancha, stove top, lid that doubles as a wok), all packed neatly in a carry bag. It runs on standard screw-in gas cartridges or can connect to a larger LPG supply. Set-up takes under a minute and it’s ready to cook in no time.

 

✅ Pros: Multi-functional, compact, easy to clean

❌ Cons: Not ideal for cooking for large groups

Ideal for: Those who want one compact solution for frying, grilling, and boiling

 

🔥 3. Outwell Asado Gas Grill

⭐️ Rating: 3.8/5

Outwell Asado Gas Grill

The Outwell Asado is a no-frills, extremely lightweight gas BBQ that’s perfect for occasional use. Its foldable legs and small profile make it ideal for storage in small motorhome compartments. The single burner heats up quickly and the ceramic grill surface is easy to clean. However, it’s not the most durable or stable unit and struggles a bit in windy conditions.

 

✅ Pros: Very light, affordable, compact

❌ Cons: Less durable, limited power

Ideal for: Casual users or those prioritising weight and space

 

🔥 4. Campingaz Party Grill 400 CV

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5

Campingaz Party Grill 400

The Campingaz Party Grill 400 is great for campers who want multiple cooking options without separate equipment. With a grill, griddle, plancha, and stove plate, it’s more of a portable cooking hub than just a BBQ. It runs on CV 470 gas cartridges, which are widely available. The water compartment catches grease and makes it easy to clean. It’s slightly bulkier than some others, but the value and versatility are hard to beat.

 

✅ Pros: Multi-surface cooking, easy to clean

❌ Cons: Bigger footprint than others

Ideal for: Campers cooking a variety of meals outdoors

 

🔥 5. Karinear BBQ Grill Grill

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5

Karinear Barbecue Grill

The Karinear Barbecue Grill is a premium wood-pellet BBQ that delivers true smoky flavour in a sturdy, briefcase-sized package. With digital controls, meat probe, and consistent temperature control, it feels like bringing a high-end smoker on the road. However, it requires electricity, which limits its off-grid use unless you have solar or a generator. It’s heavier than others on this list, but if flavour is your top priority, this delivers in spades.

 

✅ Pros: Incredible smoke flavour, digital precision

❌ Cons: Needs power, heavy

Ideal for: Motorhomes with electric setups and serious BBQ fans

 

🔥 6. LotusGrill Smokeless Charcoal BBQ

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5

LotusGrill Smokeless Charcoal BBQ

The LotusGrill is a clever smokeless charcoal BBQ with an integrated fan (USB/battery-powered) that speeds up ignition and keeps heat even. It’s incredibly clean-burning and safe to use on tabletops, with minimal smoke and a cool-touch exterior. The sealed charcoal chamber also means no flare-ups. It’s not the most powerful BBQ, but it’s fast and clean – perfect for campsites or close quarters.

 

✅ Pros: Low smoke, fast start, safe to handle

❌ Cons: Requires gel fuel + batteries

Ideal for: Clean and controlled BBQing in shared or small outdoor areas

 

🔥 7. Cobb Pro BBQ

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5

Cobb Pro BBQ

The Cobb BBQ is a unique, highly-efficient charcoal cooker that’s ideal for roasting, baking, grilling, and frying. It’s incredibly safe to use thanks to its insulated base, making it one of the few BBQs you can place directly on a table or grass. Despite its compact size, it can cook a whole chicken or bake bread with the right accessories. It uses only a handful of briquettes or a CobbleStone for fuel.

 

✅ Pros: Super fuel-efficient, versatile cooking, safe design

❌ Cons: Slower to cook, not as “grill-like” as others

Ideal for: Slow cooks and all-in-one meal prep while off-grid

 

Would you like a comparison chart showing weight, fuel type, and size for easier decision-making?

 

Here's a comparison chart of the top 7 compact BBQs for motorhome and caravan touring, showing key features at a glance:

📌 Key Notes:

• Lightest options: Cadac Safari Chef, LotusGrill

• Most compact (packed size): Cadac Safari Chef

• Best for gourmet cooking: Traeger Ranger (if power is available)

• Best for minimal smoke: LotusGrill

• Best value all-rounder: Cadac Safari Chef or Weber Go-Anywhere

• Best versatility: Cobb (slow cooking, baking, roasting)