Outdoor RV Grilling Tips

One of the best parts of traveling in an RV is that you get to bring a full kitchen with you. This means you can bring all the ingredients, dishes, supplies, and anything else you need to make your favorite meals while on the go. This helps RVers to save money while they travel and vacation, which is a benefit for everyone. But what happens when it’s just too hot to cook inside? Some people prefer to avoid heating their RVs in the heat of the summer, and some people simply enjoy cooking outdoors. Besides, for many people, grilling outside is one of the best ways to cook in the summer. 

If you find yourself missing your grill while you are in your home away from home, do not fret! There are many ways to safely and successfully grill food from right outside your RV. Purchasing and packing the correct tools is essential, and knowing all the rules associated with grilling is also necessary. Continue on to read all about small, RV-compatible grills, as well as other tips for cooking out while you are camping.

1. Choose the right type of grill for you

Some newer motorhomes come equipped with outdoor kitchens, and some of these outdoor kitchens even have grills attached. However, this is not the norm for most RVers, so for those who want to grill, they must bring their own grill along on vacation. There are many types of small outdoor RV grills on the market, so you will want to carefully review your options before making a choice. Most of these operate off of small propane tanks. There are also special connectors that can be purchased to attach a grill to your RV's propane tank. Features include the size, portability, the cleanability, the cost, and more. Each of these factors should be considered when making your next purchase. Popular models include the following:

1. Blackstone Grill Portable Grill

2. Flame King RV Gas Grill

3. Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill

4. Coleman RoadTrip LXE Portable Propane Grill

2. Set up your grill outside our campsite

This may sound like a no-brainer, but propane and gas grills should be operated outdoors only. If it is hot outside, simply deploy your awning for all the shade you need. Set up your grill when you are unpacking outside your RV so that it is ready for you whenever you want to use it. If it is not clean enough for immediate use, clean it when you set it up so that it is ready for your next outdoor meal.

3. Be sure to follow all rules and regulations

Propane and gas grills are usually permitted at campgrounds and on public lands. Some Harvest Hosts locations may even permit grill usage, as well. However, occasionally burn bans in the heat of the summer may prohibit the use of grilling outdoors, as well. When visiting a new area, be sure to check all local guidelines and regulations to be sure that you are not breaking any rules or risking a forest fire. In addition, never leave your grill unattended. In a dry area, a single spark could start a disastrous forest fire. Play it safe and keep an eye on your grill. Be prepared to stomp out any sparks and extinguish any flames.

4. Pack all the essential tools

Grilling out requires some necessary tools! You will need a good grill cleaner, as well as grill cleaning tools. In addition, you will want to bring some long tongs, a long-handle spatula, a basting brush, and a long-handle, two-prong fork. If you are new to grilling, a meat thermometer can also help you master your meal. If you plan to make shish kabobs or any foods that require skewers, bring some nice metal skewers along, as well. Ensuring that you have all the tools you need is essential to your outdoor grilling success. Don’t forget to pack plenty of propane canisters, and/or ensure you have all the tools you need to connect your grill to your RV’s main propane system.

5. Plan some meals out, and pack your ingredients

When preparing a shopping list and packing up your fridge for your next RV trip, be sure to plan some meals you can cook outside on your trusty new grill. Burgers and steaks make for awesome grilled meats, and grilled chicken and fish are delicious as well. Grilled vegetables and corn are also great in the summer. Foil packet meals can also be prepared on the grill and provide easy clean-up. Be sure to bring along any sauces or seasonings you want to add to your food, and keep an eye on everything to ensure that it cooks properly. Take a look at our RV recipes list for outdoor grilling recipe ideas.

6. Get cooking!

Now that you have all your tools and ingredients, you are ready to fire up your shiny new grill and get cooking. If you are a grilling newbie, plan a few simple meals for your first few tries. Then you can eventually graduate to more expert-level meals as you become more comfortable with your new grill.

7. Keep it clean

When you are done using your grill, be sure to clean it right away. This will keep it in tip-top shape, while also ensuring that it is ready to go for the next time you want to use it. Scrape off all the leftover debris and dispose of it properly, closing the grill and putting all tools away to use for next time.Grilling outside your house is fun, so grilling outside of your RV is sure to be fun as well. Be sure to follow the above tips for the best overall experience. Don’t forget to invite some friends over to share your awesome grilled foods!

Do you like to grill out? Have you ever brought a portable grill along in your RV? Tell us about it below!