Top 10 Portable BBQs for Summer 2026: Expert Reviews and Buying Guide
Portable barbecues are ideal for spontaneous outings or camping weekends, offering a simple and travel-friendly way to cook meals outdoors. Unlike larger garden models, these compact units focus on ease of use and portability. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Our expert testing reveals the best picks for 2026.
How We Tested the Portable Barbecues
We took a range of portable barbecues on a trip to rural Norfolk to assess true portability, from packing into the car to actual use. Using recommended fuels, we cooked sausages, burgers, vegetables, halloumi, and pineapple rings to evaluate grill time and smoky flavour. Criteria included portability, features, ease of use, and appearance.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Portable BBQ
Louise Perry-Warnes, founder of Flames & Feasts, highlights the differences between gas and charcoal options. "Gas barbecues are easier and quicker to use: just turn them on and they're ready to cook on quickly," she says. "But the joy of cooking really begins over charcoal or wood. It takes more time and care but there's something ritualistic about it and it's much more fun."
Design also matters. "If you plan to use it for simple cooking, such as grilled prawns or burgers, an open style barbecue will do the trick. But if you're a bit more confident or want versatility to slow cook or roast, a ceramic egg-style barbecue offers a superior way of cooking as ceramic distributes the heat better than metal," Perry-Warnes adds.
Our Top Picks for Portable Barbecues
- Best Overall – Cobb Premier Air Deluxe BBQ: Priced at £189.99, this charcoal model is versatile and fuel-efficient, with a travel bag included. It features a small grill area but compensates with oven space for roasting.
- Best Budget Buy – Hi-Gear Folding Leg BBQ Grill: At £25.99, this compact charcoal barbecue has foldable legs and is lightweight, making it perfect for solo trips or couples.
- Best Gas BBQ – Campingaz Tour & Grill CV Plus Barbecue: Costing £189.95, this gas model offers instant cooking with adjustable height settings and packs down into a carry case.
- Best for Wild Campers – Petromax Atago Fire Pit Barbecue: Priced at £196.95, this collapsible charcoal or wood barbecue doubles as a fire pit and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Best Value for Money – George Foreman On-The-Go Portable Barbecue: At £60, this charcoal model has a large grill surface and a foldable design with a travel bag, though assembly can be fiddly.
- Best Portable Kettle BBQ – Weber Smokey Joe Barbecue: Priced at £85, this charcoal kettle barbecue offers a large grill area and easy portability, but legs do not fold down.
- Best for Style – Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Barbecue: Costing £104, this minimalist charcoal model heats up quickly with a split grill, though it is relatively heavy.
- Best for Large Groups – Bar-Be-Quick Smoker and Grill Barbecue: At £79, this versatile charcoal option has a large grill area for groups, but assembly can be fiddly.
- Best for Occasional Use – Asda George Portable Barbecue: Priced at just £14, this lightweight charcoal kettle is affordable and good for infrequent use, though assembly requires patience.
- Best for Barbecue Connoisseurs – Kamado Joe Jnr with Cast Iron Stand: Costing £499, this premium charcoal model is versatile and retains heat well, but it is heavy and not collapsible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Barbecues
What is the best portable barbecue? The Cobb Premier Air Deluxe stands out for versatility and fuel efficiency. For classic grilling, the George Foreman On-The-Go offers great value, while the Hi-Gear Folding Leg is ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
How to clean a portable barbecue? Let it cool slightly, then scrub while warm. Louise Perry-Warnes recommends using a sliced lemon to break down grease naturally. Always check product guidelines for specific cleaning instructions.
Where can you use a portable barbecue? They are suitable for gardens, patios, or balconies, but check local regulations for public spaces, as bans or restrictions may apply.
Safety tips for using a portable barbecue:
- Use recommended fuel and follow igniting instructions carefully.
- Set up on a flat, steady surface away from flammable materials.
- Never use indoors or in unventilated areas.
- Allow the fire to go out naturally and cool completely before disposal.
Why Trust Our Reviews
Lifestyle writer Kerry Law has extensive experience testing home appliances and outdoor products. A nature enthusiast, she brings practical insights to ensure these reviews are reliable and helpful for your outdoor cooking needs.
