Imagine this: you’re camping, the sun is rising, and you crave a warm breakfast. But your cooking options are limited. You want more than just campfire beans. You want fluffy pancakes, sizzling bacon, or perfectly grilled sandwiches, even miles away from your kitchen.
That’s where a travel griddle comes in. But with so many choices, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Do you need something lightweight for backpacking, or a sturdy one for car camping? Will it be easy to clean after a messy meal? We get it, and we’re here to help you cut through the confusion.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes a great travel griddle. We’ll break down the key features to look for, explore different types, and share tips for getting the most out of yours. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing a griddle that fits your adventures and satisfies your cravings, making every outdoor meal a delicious success.
Our Top 5 Travel Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Travel Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control
Rating: 8.7/10
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s a big, flat grill that heats up quickly and lets you cook all sorts of food. Whether you’re making breakfast for your family or grilling burgers for a party, this griddle has you covered.
What We Like:
- It has a huge cooking area, 10 x 20 inches. This means you can cook a lot of food at once.
- You can set the temperature anywhere from 200 to 420 degrees Fahrenheit. This is great for warming up food or cooking meat thoroughly.
- It’s healthier because a drip tray catches extra grease. The non-stick surface also means you don’t need much oil.
- Cleaning is super easy. You can even put the griddle top in the dishwasher! Just remember to take out the temperature control first.
- It’s perfect for when you need extra cooking space, like during holidays or big family meals.
- It’s safe to use with advanced safety features and comes with a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- It can be a bit bulky to store if you have a small kitchen.
- While it’s great for crowds, it might be too big for just cooking for one or two people.
This Chefman griddle makes cooking for a crowd simple and enjoyable. It’s a versatile and easy-to-clean appliance that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
2. Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet
Rating: 8.5/10
The Elite Gourmet EG808 Electric Skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that makes cooking easy and fun. Its 8” x 8” size is just right for making your favorite meals, from crispy fried chicken to hearty deep-dish pasta. The non-stick surface means food slides right off, and cleanup is a breeze. You can whip up fluffy pancakes, delicious grilled cheese, and tasty stir-fried veggies with this handy skillet.
What We Like:
- The tempered glass lid locks in flavors and moisture, letting you see your food as it cooks.
- Its non-stick cooking surface makes food release easy and cleaning up quick.
- The dishwasher-safe design (after removing the temperature control) saves you time.
- The thick cast aluminum body is strong and won’t rust or warp.
- It heats up fast with 600 watts of power.
- Cool-touch knobs and handles keep you safe while cooking.
- It’s a thoughtful gift for housewarmings or weddings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8” x 8” size might be too small for cooking large family meals.
- While it’s dishwasher safe after removing the temperature control, some users might prefer a fully submersible unit.
This Elite Gourmet skillet is a reliable and convenient addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cooking and makes cleanup effortless, making it a great choice for busy cooks.
3. Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for delicious outdoor meals with the Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle. This griddle is black with a shiny stainless steel faceplate and a tough powder-coated steel body. It’s designed to be your go-to cooking companion for any adventure.
What We Like:
- It’s super portable and compact, making it easy to take camping, to tailgates, or to backyard barbecues.
- You can cook all sorts of yummy foods on it, from bacon and eggs for breakfast to burgers and veggies for lunch or dinner.
- Even though it’s small, it has a surprisingly large cooking area – enough for about 14 burgers!
- It has two burners that you can control separately, so you can cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time.
- Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to its special grease management system that catches all the extra grease.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for smaller groups, it might not be enough for very large gatherings.
- The heat can sometimes be a little uneven in the very corners of the griddle.
This Blackstone griddle is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves cooking outdoors. It offers great versatility and convenience for all your culinary adventures.
4. BLACKSTONE 22 Inch On The Go Portable Gas Griddle
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to cook up a storm wherever you go with the BLACKSTONE 22 Inch On The Go Portable Gas Griddle. This griddle is designed for adventure, making outdoor cooking a breeze. It’s your perfect companion for camping, tailgating, or just enjoying a meal in your backyard.
What We Like:
- Super easy to move around, even though it’s sturdy. It feels like rolling a suitcase!
- It’s perfect for taking on trips like camping or to sports games.
- You can cook two different foods at two different temperatures at the same time, which is really handy.
- The lid keeps your griddle clean and safe from the weather.
- Cleaning up grease is no longer a messy job thanks to its smart grease system.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s portable, 70 lbs might still be a bit heavy for some people to lift into a car.
- The propane tank hook-up is for small tanks, so you might need to carry a separate larger one for longer cooking sessions.
The Blackstone 22 Inch On The Go Portable Gas Griddle is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking and wants convenience. It makes cooking delicious meals outside simple and enjoyable.
5. Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle with Collapsible Stand
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to flip some fantastic food with the Royal Gourmet PD3001 3-Burner Propane Gas Griddle! This 23-inch portable griddle is your new best friend for outdoor cooking adventures. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying your backyard, this griddle makes cooking easy and fun. It’s black, sleek, and comes with a handy collapsible stand.
What We Like:
- It saves a lot of space. You can fold the stand down quickly, so storage is a breeze.
- You get a big cooking area, 314 square inches. That means you can cook up to 8 burgers at once!
- The griddle top is coated with ceramic. This makes it tough, resistant to heat, rust, and scratches.
- It’s safe for cooking. The griddle top has passed important tests. Plus, the lid latches keep it shut tight during travel.
- There’s an extra side shelf. It’s perfect for holding plates or ingredients. Two hooks are there to hang your rags, keeping everything tidy.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to season the ceramic-coated griddle top before you use it for the first time.
This Royal Gourmet griddle offers a great combination of portability and cooking power. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who loves cooking great food outdoors.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Next Adventure Griddle
Ready for delicious meals wherever you roam? A travel griddle is your ticket to tasty breakfasts, grilled sandwiches, and even stir-fries on your camping trip, RV adventure, or backyard gathering. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? We’ve got you covered.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a travel griddle, keep these important features in mind:
- Portability and Size: You need a griddle that’s easy to carry. Look for models that fold up or have detachable parts. Think about how much food you usually cook. A small griddle is great for one or two people, while a larger one works for families.
- Heat Distribution: Good heat distribution means your food cooks evenly. No one likes a burnt spot next to an undercooked section! Look for griddles with thick surfaces or designs that spread heat well.
- Ease of Cleaning: After cooking, you want cleanup to be quick. Non-stick surfaces are a lifesaver. Removable drip trays also make cleaning much simpler.
- Durability: A travel griddle will face the elements. It should be built tough to handle bumps and outdoor use. Sturdy construction means it will last longer.
- Power Source: Most travel griddles run on propane or electricity. Propane is great for camping where electricity isn’t always available. Electric griddles are convenient for RVs or places with hookups.
Important Materials
The materials used in a griddle affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Cooking Surface:
- Cast Iron: This material heats up evenly and retains heat well. It’s super durable but can be heavy and needs proper seasoning to prevent rust.
- Steel: Often used in griddles, steel is lighter than cast iron. It heats up quickly. Stainless steel is a good choice for its rust resistance.
- Non-Stick Coatings: Many griddles have a non-stick coating like Teflon. This makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. However, these coatings can wear off over time if not cared for properly.
- Frame and Body: Look for griddles made from sturdy metals like stainless steel or powder-coated steel. These resist rust and corrosion, which is important for outdoor use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a griddle great or not so great.
- What Makes a Griddle Better:
- Adjustable Heat Settings: This gives you more control over cooking temperatures.
- Wind Guards: These help protect the flame from wind, ensuring consistent heat.
- Built-in Igniters: These make lighting the griddle quick and easy.
- Stable Legs: Griddles with sturdy, adjustable legs stay level on uneven ground.
- What Can Make a Griddle Worse:
- Thin Metal: Thin surfaces heat unevenly and can warp easily.
- Poor Weld Points: Weak connections can lead to the griddle falling apart.
- Difficult Ignition: A griddle that’s hard to light is frustrating.
- Surfaces That Stick: If food sticks, cooking becomes a mess, and cleaning is a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your griddle.
- Camping and Picnics: A compact, propane-powered griddle is perfect for cooking breakfast burritos or burgers at your campsite. Its portability is key.
- RV Travel: Electric griddles are a great option for RVs. They’re easy to use and don’t require propane tanks. You can whip up pancakes or grilled cheese sandwiches in your RV kitchen.
- Backyard BBQs: Even if you have a big grill, a travel griddle is handy for cooking smaller items like eggs or pancakes alongside your main dishes. It adds versatility to your outdoor cooking.
- Tailgating: Impress your friends with hot dogs and burgers at the game. A griddle that sets up quickly is ideal for tailgating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a travel griddle?
A: The main benefit is being able to cook a variety of delicious meals in different locations, like camping or tailgating.
Q: Are travel griddles hard to clean?
A: Most modern travel griddles have non-stick surfaces and removable parts, making them easy to clean.
Q: Can I use a travel griddle for more than just breakfast?
A: Absolutely! You can cook burgers, sandwiches, stir-fries, fajitas, and much more on a travel griddle.
Q: How does propane power work for a travel griddle?
A: Propane-powered griddles connect to small, portable propane tanks, similar to those used for camping stoves.
Q: Is cast iron a good material for a travel griddle?
A: Yes, cast iron heats evenly and lasts a long time, but it can be heavier and requires more care to prevent rust.
Q: What should I do if my griddle surface starts sticking?
A: If your griddle has a non-stick coating, it might be time to re-season it or consider a griddle with a more durable surface.
Q: How do I choose the right size travel griddle?
A: Consider how many people you usually cook for. Smaller griddles are for one or two, while larger ones are for families or groups.
Q: Are electric travel griddles good for camping?
A: Electric griddles are best used where you have access to an electrical outlet, like an RV campsite or a park with hookups.
Q: What are wind guards for on a griddle?
A: Wind guards help protect the flame from blowing out, ensuring your food cooks at a consistent temperature.
Q: How important is portability?
A: Portability is very important for a travel griddle, as you’ll be carrying it to different locations. Look for lightweight and compact designs.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.