Pros and cons of a grill on an RV trip

For some people, bringing a grill on an RV trip is a no-brainer. Others don’t necessarily prioritize cooking while on vacation or prefer to use their RV kitchenette. Still, others may be on the fence about whether a grill is worth the trouble and space it can take up in the coach. To help you figure out whether to bring a grill, we have put together a handy pros and cons list for bringing a grill on your next RV trip.

Choosing the right type of grill for your RV

It’s important to consider the size of your travel party and the use case for your camping grill before deciding on one. It should also be pretty portable since space in an RV can be limited. Here are three types of grills to choose from:

Charcoal

Cooking over charcoal provides that smoky, chargrilled flavor we all love and crave when we expect a grilled meal. Kettle types of charcoal grills are the most popular for RVers since they can act as an oven, smoker, and grill in one, which is advantageous when camping.

Electric

Embrace the hassle-free experience of an electric grill, eliminating fuel concerns and fumes. Simply plug into any power source to kickstart your grilling adventure. Electric grills, available in various colors and sizes, are easy to assemble, quick to store, and operate cost-free if your campground provides electrical hookups. Enjoy the convenience without spending an additional dime on operation costs!

Propane

For extra convenience, a propane grill outshines its charcoal counterparts. Propane grills heat up swiftly with no need to manage hot coals post-grilling. Portable propane grills offer flexibility with disposable canisters, and for a cost-effective, eco-friendly approach, you can try an adapter hose to connect to a refillable propane tank. For these reasons, propane grills stand out as the favored choice for RV camping for many people.

Bringing a grill: Pros

More varied cooking options

One of the biggest advantages of bringing a grill on your RV trip is the versatility it adds to cooking. As we discussed above, grills come in various types – charcoal, propane, and electric – catering to different preferences. This diversity allows you to experiment with cooking styles and enjoy a range of flavors while on the road.

Immersion in the outdoors

Grilling adds a delightful dimension to the RV camping experience. The sizzle of food on the grill, the savory smells wafting through the air, and the joy of gathering around the grill can help you create memorable moments with loved ones on the road. Cooking outside transforms a regular meal into a festive event, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow travelers.

Cost-effectiveness

Dining out every day while on the road can quickly become expensive and unhealthy. Bringing a grill enables you to prepare your meals, saving money in the long run. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can enjoy delicious, homemade, and nutritious dishes without breaking the bank. Plus, you have the flexibility to choose healthier ingredients and cater to specific dietary needs.

Customizability

With the right accessories, you can turn your RV's outdoor space into a fully customized kitchen. Portable tables, grill stands, and outdoor cooking utensils work in tandem to make it easy to set up a comfortable cooking area. This allows you to adapt your outdoor space based on your preferences and the available campground facilities.

Cons of bringing a grill on your RV trip

Limited storage space

One of the challenges of RV living is the limited storage space. A grill, especially a large one, can take up valuable storage space that might be better allocated for other essentials. It's important to consider the size of your RV and the storage options available when deciding whether to bring a grill.

Maintenance/cleanup

Grills require maintenance, and cleanup can be a time-consuming task you don’t feel like dealing with after a long day of driving or exploring. Dealing with greasy grates and disposing of charcoal ash or cleaning propane burners may not be as convenient as you idealize on the road. And once you factor in the time and effort needed for grill maintenance, you may decide it’s not worth the trouble to bring one along.

Weight considerations

Weight is a critical consideration in all RV travel. Every pound adds to fuel consumption, which can dramatically affect your overall travel costs. Grills, particularly larger ones, can be heavy. You’ll need to balance your desire for culinary freedom with the impact on the vehicle's weight and fuel efficiency.

Safety/regulatory concerns

Safety is paramount, especially in a confined space like an RV. Grilling involves open flames, and if not done properly, it can pose risks. Propane leaks, charcoal sparks, or accidental flare-ups need to be managed carefully. RVers must prioritize safety protocols and ensure that the chosen grill is suitable for RV use.

Additionally, before firing up the grill, make sure you’re aware of local regulations and campground policies. Some locations may have restrictions on open flames, and certain campgrounds might not allow the use of grills at all. Checking ahead prevents any surprises and ensures that you can use your grill legally and responsibly.

Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference

The decision to bring a grill on your RV trip ultimately depends on your preferences, RV size, and travel style. While the pros of bringing a grill highlight the joy of outdoor cooking, cost savings, and enhanced experiences, the cons focus on the need for careful consideration regarding space, weight, and safety.

If you decide to bring a grill, make sure to choose one that aligns with your RV lifestyle and meets safety standards. In the end, the goal of RV travel is to create lasting memories. So whether you're savoring a meal grilled under the stars, using your RV kitchenette, eating out, or embracing the simplicity of using a campground kitchen or grill, the key is to make choices that enhance your overall RV experience.

Want to grill outside your own RV?

If you’re looking for the perfect RV for your next big adventure, look no further than your local Transwest dealer. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is available to help you make the best choice to meet your travel needs. Check out our available inventory and visit us today to help you find the best RV to start making memories, whether you choose to bring a grill or not.