Imagine waking up to the smell of sizzling bacon and pancakes, not in your kitchen, but at a campsite surrounded by nature. Sounds amazing, right? But lugging your heavy kitchen griddle on your adventures? Not so much. Finding the perfect travel griddle can feel overwhelming. So many sizes, features, and prices! You want something that’s easy to pack, cooks food evenly, and won’t break the bank.
Choosing the wrong travel griddle means dealing with uneven cooking, struggling with cleanup, or even worse, a griddle that falls apart after just a few trips. That’s why it’s important to choose the right one. Think about all the delicious meals you could be making on the go. From camping trips to tailgating parties, a travel griddle opens up a world of culinary possibilities wherever you are.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the important things to consider when buying a travel griddle. We’ll talk about size, heat, portability, and more. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for and be ready to find the perfect griddle for your next adventure. Let’s get cooking!
Our Top 5 Travel Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Travel Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Front Plate
Rating: 8.7/10
The Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle is your ticket to delicious meals on the go. This black griddle features a stainless steel front plate and powder-coated steel for durability. It’s designed to be portable, so you can easily take it camping, tailgating, or hunting. Enjoy cooking versatility and easy cleanup with this compact and powerful griddle.
What We Like:
- Griddle on the Go: It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Spacious Cooking Surface: The 267 square inches of cooking space lets you cook for 2-4 people.
- Convenient Features: The non-slip feet, Piezo ignition, and stainless steel front plate make cooking easy and safe.
- Powerful Burner: The H-style burner provides even heat distribution across the griddle.
- Easy Grease Cleanup: The rear grease management system simplifies cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooking area, while spacious, might be small for larger groups.
- While portable, a dedicated carrying case would be a great addition.
If you want a portable and powerful cooking solution, the Blackstone 17″ Tabletop Griddle is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for making memorable meals wherever your adventures take you.
2. Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet
Rating: 8.5/10
The Elite Gourmet EG808 electric skillet is a compact and convenient appliance. It features a non-stick surface, a tempered glass lid, and dishwasher-safe components. This skillet promises quick heating and easy cleanup, making it ideal for small meals and simple cooking tasks.
What We Like:
- The non-stick surface releases food easily and makes cleaning a breeze.
- The tempered glass lid lets you monitor cooking while locking in flavors and moisture.
- Its 8” x 8” size is perfect for single servings or small side dishes.
- It heats up quickly so you can start cooking faster.
- It is dishwasher safe. This makes clean-up easier.
- Cool-touch handles make it safe to move around.
- The black lacquer finish looks sleek and resists rust and warping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 600W power may not be sufficient for high-heat searing or large batches.
- The small size might not be suitable for cooking for larger families or groups.
- Only the pan is dishwasher safe, you must remove the temperature control unit before washing.
Overall, the Elite Gourmet EG808 is a great option for those seeking a small, easy-to-use electric skillet for simple cooking tasks. Its compact size and easy cleanup make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
3. Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control
Rating: 8.5/10
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a versatile appliance for your kitchen. It has a large cooking surface, so you can cook a lot of food at once. It’s great for families or when you have guests. You can adjust the temperature to cook different foods, from warming to searing. The non-stick surface and drip tray help you cook healthier meals with less oil.
What We Like:
- The 10 x 20 inch size means you can cook a large meal at once.
- You can adjust the temperature from 200-420°F for different cooking needs.
- The drip tray collects extra oil, making your food healthier.
- It is easy to clean because the griddle is immersible and dishwasher safe.
- This griddle adds extra cooking space to your kitchen quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may find the temperature control to be less precise than a stovetop.
- The large size might be difficult to store for those with limited cabinet space.
The Chefman XL Electric Griddle is a great choice if you need extra cooking space. It is easy to use and clean.
4. Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover
Rating: 8.7/10
The Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle is a fantastic option for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. This griddle is designed to be portable, making it perfect for camping trips, tailgating parties, or even just cooking in your backyard. With its three burners and spacious cooking surface, you can cook a variety of foods with ease. Plus, the included cover protects it from the elements.
What We Like:
- Portable and Convenient: It’s easy to carry and store. You can set it up almost anywhere.
- Protective Cover: The included PVC cover keeps the griddle safe from rain and other weather.
- Spacious Cooking Surface: You can cook a lot of food at once on the 319 sq. in. surface. It can handle 15 patties!
- Fast Heating: The three burners heat up quickly and evenly. The piezo ignitor makes starting it simple.
- Easy Cleanup: The grease cup catches drips, and the griddle top comes off for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- LP Tank Not Included: You need to buy a 20 lb. propane tank separately.
In conclusion, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S is a great portable griddle that offers convenience and excellent cooking power. If you need a reliable and easy-to-clean griddle for outdoor adventures, this one is a solid choice.
5. Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate
Rating: 9.5/10
The Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle is a great option for cooking outdoors. It has a stainless steel faceplate and a black, powder-coated steel body. This griddle is built to last and looks good too. It is portable, so you can take it camping, tailgating, or to outdoor barbecues. You can cook a variety of foods on this versatile griddle.
What We Like:
- The griddle is portable and compact, making it easy to take anywhere.
- It offers versatile cooking options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- The 361 square inches of cooking space is surprisingly large for a tabletop model. You can cook up to 14 burgers at once!
- Two independently controlled burners give you total heat control for even cooking.
- The Rear Grease Management System makes cleanup easy and mess-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the steel can get very hot, so caution is needed.
- Some users might prefer a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control.
Overall, the Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle is a fantastic choice for outdoor cooking. Its portability and cooking versatility make it a winner.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Travel Griddle Companion
Planning a camping trip or a road adventure? A travel griddle can be your best friend for cooking delicious meals on the go. But with so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you find the perfect travel griddle to suit your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a travel griddle, consider these important features:
- Size and Portability: How much cooking space do you need? Think about how many people you’ll be cooking for. Smaller griddles are easier to carry, but larger ones let you cook more food at once.
- Heat Control: Look for a griddle with adjustable temperature settings. This lets you cook different foods perfectly. Some griddles have multiple burners for even more control.
- Fuel Source: Travel griddles can use propane, electricity, or charcoal. Propane griddles are popular for camping because they are easy to use outdoors. Electric griddles need a power source, which is great for RVs or campsites with electricity. Charcoal griddles are great for high heat and a smoky flavor.
- Non-Stick Surface: A good non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning much easier. Food won’t stick, and you won’t have to scrub as hard.
- Grease Management: A built-in grease trap or collection system is essential. It helps keep your cooking area clean and prevents flare-ups.
- Stability: Make sure the griddle has sturdy legs or a stable base. This will prevent it from tipping over while you’re cooking.
Important Materials
The materials used to make a travel griddle affect its durability, performance, and price.
- Cooking Surface: Common materials include cast iron, stainless steel, and aluminum with a non-stick coating. Cast iron heats evenly and retains heat well, but it can be heavy and requires seasoning. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Aluminum heats up quickly, but it may not distribute heat as evenly.
- Frame and Legs: Look for a sturdy frame made of steel or aluminum. These materials are strong and can withstand the rigors of travel.
- Burners: Stainless steel burners are durable and resistant to rust. Cast iron burners are also long-lasting and provide even heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can impact the quality of a travel griddle:
Improving Factors:
- Heavy-Duty Construction: A well-built griddle will last longer and perform better. Look for solid welds, durable materials, and a stable design.
- Even Heat Distribution: A griddle that heats evenly will cook food more consistently. This prevents hot spots and ensures that your food is cooked to perfection.
- Easy to Clean: A non-stick surface and a good grease management system make cleaning much easier.
- Wind Resistance: Some griddles have features that protect the flame from wind. This is important for outdoor cooking.
- Portability Features: Carry handles, folding legs, and a compact design make the griddle easier to transport and store.
Reducing Factors:
- Thin Metal: A griddle made of thin metal may warp or dent easily. It may also not heat evenly.
- Poor Non-Stick Coating: A low-quality non-stick coating will wear off quickly, causing food to stick.
- Unstable Design: A wobbly griddle can be dangerous and make cooking difficult.
- Difficult to Clean: A griddle with hard-to-reach areas or a poor grease management system will be a pain to clean.
User Experience and Use Cases
Travel griddles are versatile cooking tools that can be used in various situations:
- Camping: Cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your campsite. Griddles are great for pancakes, bacon, burgers, and stir-fries.
- RVing: A travel griddle is a convenient way to cook meals on the road. It’s perfect for cooking outdoors and keeping your RV clean.
- Tailgating: Enjoy delicious food before the big game. Griddles are great for cooking burgers, hot dogs, and other tailgating favorites.
- Picnics: A portable griddle lets you cook hot food at your picnic. It’s perfect for cooking sandwiches, quesadillas, and other easy meals.
- Backyard Cooking: Even when you’re not traveling, a travel griddle can be a great addition to your backyard cooking setup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best fuel source for a travel griddle?
A: Propane is a popular choice for camping because it’s portable and easy to use. Electric griddles are great for RVs or campsites with electricity. Charcoal is great for high heat and smoky flavor.
Q: How do I clean a travel griddle?
A: Let the griddle cool down completely. Use a scraper to remove any food residue. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry thoroughly.
Q: What size travel griddle should I buy?
A: Consider how many people you’ll be cooking for. A smaller griddle is fine for one or two people, while a larger griddle is better for families or groups.
Q: Can I use a travel griddle indoors?
A: Electric griddles can be used indoors. Propane and charcoal griddles should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas.
Q: How do I season a cast iron griddle?
A: Coat the griddle with a thin layer of oil. Heat it in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour. Let it cool completely.
Q: What is the best way to store a travel griddle?
A: Clean the griddle thoroughly and dry it completely. Store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
Q: How do I prevent food from sticking to my griddle?
A: Make sure the griddle is properly heated before adding food. Use a non-stick spray or oil. Avoid overcrowding the griddle.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on a non-stick griddle?
A: It’s best to use wooden or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.
Q: How long will a propane tank last on a travel griddle?
A: It depends on the size of the tank and how often you use the griddle. A 20-pound propane tank can last for several cooking sessions.
Q: Where can I buy a travel griddle?
A: You can buy travel griddles at outdoor stores, camping supply stores, and online retailers.
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.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!