I don’t think any vacation is complete without a hearty outdoor barbeque. Whenever I’m on a trip with my family, I always make sure to pack my trusty grilling kit so I can fire up a delicious meal for them to enjoy after a day of having fun.
If you want to do the same, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re camping, RVing, staying at a cabin, or just hitting the beach with some good ol’ pals, this guide will help you pack everything you need to grill up tasty meals on the go.
Portable Grill
Due to space constraints, you likely won’t be able to bring your Big Green Egg or full-size Weber grill on vacation. Luckily, there are dozens of portable grill options available for purchase in big-box stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.
Portable grills come in three options: gas, charcoal, and electric.
Gas Grill
Gas grills offer the most convenience due to their push-button ignition and easy setup. They’re ideal for those who want to start grilling burgers within minutes of arriving at the campsite.
Electric Grill
Electric grills are an excellent alternative to gas grills but they require an electric source to fire up. Though they don’t add much to the taste of foods, they have consistent and reliable heat that delicate food items like fish or vegetables appreciate.
Charcoal Grill
If you love the satisfaction of firing up a charcoal grill, then a portable charcoal grill is your best bed.
The main advantage of barbeque grills over gas and electric variants is the authentic taste you get from using real wood charcoal or hardwood briquettes.
They do take a bit more time and effort to set up, but grilling enthusiasts appreciate the ritual and control that comes with managing the coals.
What to Choose?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose a gas, electric, or charcoal grill depends on your taste preference and preferred cooking style.
If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss setup, gas grills are the way to go. Electric grills are perfect for locations where open flames aren’t allowed, while charcoal grills offer that classic smoky flavor that many barbecue enthusiasts prefer.
Depending on your grill choice, make sure to pack enough charcoal or propane for your entire trip. If you’re vacationing in an area with limited electricity, carry a portable power station or generator.
Grilling Tools
Now that you’ve got your griller, it’s time to move on to grilling tools.
Grilling tools are any equipment used to safely maneuver, manipulate, and tend food on the hot grates.
Examples include:
- Long-handled tongs
- Spatula
- Basting brush
- Skewers
- Grilling gloves
- Rotisserie basket
- Cutting board and knife
When packing barbeque tools, ask yourself this: Can I do without it?
Only pack the tools you know you’ll use. Do you really need long-handle tongs if you’re grilling hot dogs and burgers on a small, portable gas grill? A spatula might be all you really need to safely flip your food.
If you want to cover all bases, look for tools that serve multiple purposes like this 4-in-1 mini folding BBQ combo tool set.
Disposable Plates and Utensils
You don’t want to be lugging around porcelain plates and heavy silverware on your vacation.
Opt for disposable plates, cups, and utensils instead. They’re not only lightweight but also eliminate the need for washing dishes after the meal.
If possible, look for eco-friendly options made from recyclable materials to minimize your environmental impact, especially if you’re out camping.
Storage Containers
Pre-marinate your meats, seafood, or veggies at home and store them in airtight containers. Then, use that same (washed) container to pack leftovers to carry home or eat later in the day.
If you don’t want to bring containers, you can instead marinate your food in a ziplock bag. Ziplock bags are also great for storing leftovers, so make sure to bring extra.
Portable Cooler
If you’re bringing lots of perishable foods like meat and fish, a portable cooler will be your best companion—especially if you’re vacationing in an area without a powered refrigerator.
Just be mindful of the cooler’s size. A large cooler might seem ideal, but remember, you’ll need to drag it around.
Condiments and Spices
Even with a flavorful marinade, some people enjoy adding a sprinkle of their favorite finishing rub or BBQ sauce during grilling.
If that sounds like you—or aren’t a fan of marinades in general—don’t forget to bring condiments and spices. You can pre-mix some spice blends at home for added convenience.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your ultimate checklist for a vacation barbeque! Bookmark this post so you can visit it the next time you’re planning a trip with your friends and family.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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