Complete Guide to RV Grilling

Jake

Jul 31, 2023 • 8 min read

As we roll into the heart of the summer, it's the perfect time to delve into one of our favorite on-the-road activities – grilling. Picture this: A gentle evening breeze, a scenic landscape surrounding you, and the tantalizing aroma of a juicy steak sizzling on the grill. Few things can top the magic of outdoor grilling when you’re out and about in your RV or camper. So, whether you're a seasoned RVer or a camping newbie, we’re going to tackle everything you need to know about RV and camper grilling. Let's get fired up!

Choosing the Perfect Grill for Your RV or Camper

First and foremost, you’ll need a reliable grill that suits your specific RVing lifestyle. Grills come in all shapes, sizes, and fuel types.

Size and Portability

First and foremost, consider the size of the grill. You'll want something compact and portable, yet large enough to accommodate your grilling needs. Keep in mind the storage space in your RV or camper. If you're tight on space, look for grills that have foldable legs or removable parts to make storage easier.

Fuel Type

The type of fuel the grill uses is another significant factor. Here's a little more detail on the three main options:

Charcoal Grills: These grills are perfect for traditionalists who love the smoky flavor that charcoal grilling provides. They're typically lightweight, portable, and ideal for campers who prefer to stay off-grid. However, dealing with charcoal can be messy, and lighting it might be a challenge in windy conditions.
Propane Grills: Propane grills are the go-to choice for many RVers due to their convenience. They heat up quickly, provide even heat, and don't produce ashes. You can connect them to small propane cylinders or your RV's propane supply. Do remember, though, that you'll need to refill or replace the propane tanks, so you must have access to a supply source.
Electric Grills: Electric grills are the cleanest and easiest to use. They require no other fuel source except a power outlet, so there's no need to carry propane tanks or charcoal bags. However, they're best for RVers who stay at campgrounds with electrical hookups, as they can drain your RV's batteries quickly if you're boondocking.

Mounting Options

Choosing a grill mounting option is an important consideration when grilling in an RV or camper environment. The right mount can provide stability, convenience, and safety while grilling. Here are some of the common mounting options available:

Bumper-Mounted Grills: One of the popular mounting options for RV grilling is the bumper mount. These mounting systems typically attach to the bumper of your RV and allow the grill to be set up and stowed away quickly. This can be a great space-saving option if your RV or camper is lacking in extra storage space. However, you should always ensure your grill is adequately cooled before placing it near your vehicle to prevent any potential heat damage.
RV Rail-Mounted Grills: These grills are designed to mount directly onto the side rails of your RV. This option is ideal for those who want their grill to be securely attached to their vehicle. They're typically easy to install and adjust according to your height preferences. Keep in mind that you'll need a suitable side rail or mounting bracket on your RV for this type of setup. Also, consider the heat and potential smoke damage to the side of your RV or camper.
Tripod Grills: Tripod grills are free-standing and can be set up anywhere around your campsite. They consist of a tripod stand with a grill grate suspended in the center. These grills are highly portable and flexible as they can be moved and adjusted easily. They're perfect for those who want to grill away from their RV or in communal grilling areas.
Tabletop Grills: Tabletop grills are another portable and flexible option that can be used virtually anywhere you have a stable, heat-resistant surface. This could be a picnic table, a tailgate, or a specialized outdoor camping table. Tabletop grills offer excellent portability and easy storage. However, ensure the surface you choose is sturdy enough to support the grill and resistant to heat.
Hitch-Mounted Grills: Hitch-mounted grills attach to the hitch receiver at the back of your RV. These grills often come with their stand or platform, making them an easy and convenient grilling option. They're a good choice if you want your grill to be a permanent fixture on your RV or if you have limited storage space. As with bumper-mounted grills, ensure your grill has cooled down before you stow it away to prevent damage to your RV.

Each mounting option has its pros and cons, so the best one for you will depend on your specific RV setup, your grilling preferences, and how much storage space you have. Always consider safety and convenience when deciding how and where to mount your grill.

Grill Features

Certain additional features can make grilling even more enjoyable. Look for grills with adjustable heat controls for more precise cooking. A grill with a lid is beneficial as it allows for versatile cooking methods and helps maintain consistent temperature. For those who plan to grill a variety of foods, a grill with a higher lid will accommodate larger items like a whole chicken or corn on the cob.

Price and Quality

Lastly, consider your budget and the grill's quality. While you can find inexpensive grills, they might not be as durable or function as efficiently as slightly more expensive ones. Investing in a quality grill made from durable materials (like stainless steel) will ensure it withstands the rigors of travel and frequent use.

Remember, the perfect grill for you is one that matches your camping style, personal preference, and budget. No one-size-fits-all here – so take the time to consider what would work best for your RV or camper adventures.

Mastering the Art of Grill Setup

Location is critical when setting up your grill. Always place it on a flat, stable surface, a safe distance from your RV or camper. Avoid using your grill directly under awnings or near flammable materials. Remember to check the wind direction so smoke won’t blow into your RV or towards your neighbors.

Location, Location, Location: Picking the right location for your grill is paramount. Ideally, you want to position your grill on a flat, stable surface to ensure it won't tip over. A collapsible grill stand can be a handy accessory if you're dealing with uneven terrain.

Your grill should be a safe distance from your RV, camper, or any other combustible materials. The radiant heat from the grill can damage the exterior of your RV or potentially cause a fire if too close to flammable items. Also, beware of overhanging branches or awnings that could be affected by heat or rising flames.

Wind direction is another factor to consider. Smoke and embers can blow toward your RV or your neighbors, so position your grill in a way that the smoke goes away from people and vehicles.
Preparation is Key: Before you start cooking, clean your grill grates to remove any leftover food particles or grease from previous use. This is not only hygienic but also helps prevent food from sticking and burning.

Preheating your grill is another essential step. Whether you're using charcoal, propane, or an electric grill, preheating helps kill bacteria, heats the cooking surface evenly, and gives your food those beautiful grill marks. Aim for a preheating time of about 15-20 minutes.
Understand Heat Zones: Once your grill is up and running, it's crucial to understand your heat zones. Most grills have hot and cool zones, which you can use to your advantage for different types of food.

For example, the area directly above the heat source is the hot zone, ideal for searing meat and getting those coveted grill marks. The area further away from the heat source is the cool zone, suitable for slow-cooking food or for items that don't require direct heat.

By understanding and utilizing these heat zones, you can cook a variety of foods at their ideal temperatures all at the same time.
Ready for Cooking: Lastly, have all your cooking tools ready before you start grilling. A pair of long tongs, a spatula, a basting brush, and a grill brush are some of the essentials you'll need. Having a meat thermometer on hand can also be beneficial to ensure your meat is cooked to the desired temperature.

Setting up your grill correctly not only ensures a successful and safe grilling experience but also helps you get the most out of your RV or camper grilling endeavors.

Grilling Safety

Safety should never be overlooked when it comes to RV or camper grilling. Never leave your grill unattended when it's lit, and always have a fire extinguisher nearby. If you're using a propane grill, check for leaks in your gas line before every use. After grilling, allow your grill to cool completely before packing it away.

Check Your Grill Before Use: Before you start grilling, ensure your grill is in good working order. Check for any visible damage or potential issues. For gas grills, inspect the hoses and connections for cracks or leaks. A simple way to do this is to apply soapy water to the connections and turn on the gas. If you see bubbles forming, you have a leak that needs to be fixed before use.
Never Leave Your Grill Unattended: A lit grill should never be left unattended. Besides risking your food getting burnt, there's a chance of flare-ups which can become dangerous quickly. Always keep an eye on your grill and ensure kids and pets are kept at a safe distance.
Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: It's always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher close at hand when you're grilling. While we hope you'll never have to use it, it's essential to be prepared. Ensure you know how to use the fire extinguisher properly.
Use the Right Tools: When grilling, use long-handled tools specially designed for BBQs. They help keep your hands and face away from the heat and prevent burns. Also, never use items that are not designed to withstand the heat of the grill as they may melt or catch fire.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: When grilling, especially with charcoal, ensure you're in a well-ventilated area. Burning charcoal releases carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous in an enclosed space.
Be Mindful of Flare-Ups: Flare-ups can happen, especially when you're grilling fatty foods. If a flare-up occurs, don't use water to douse it as this can cause the oil to splatter and spread the flames. Instead, remove the food from the grill and close the lid to cut off the oxygen supply to the flames. For charcoal grills, having a squirt bottle with water can be handy to manage minor flare-ups.
Cool Down Before Cleaning and Storing: After grilling, allow your grill to cool down completely before attempting to clean or store it. Dispose of charcoal properly and ensure all embers are fully extinguished. For propane grills, make sure the gas supply is turned off.

Incorporating these safety measures into your grilling routine can help prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant and safe RV or camper grilling experience. After all, safety should always be the main ingredient in any grilling endeavor.

Creative Grilling Recipes

The beauty of grilling is that it's not limited to meats. From corn on the cob to grilled peaches for dessert, the options are vast. Experimenting with different recipes will not only enhance your grilling skills but also surprise your palate with delightful flavors. Don't forget marinades and rubs – they can take your grill game to a whole new level!

Wrapping Up

RV and camper grilling can take your on-the-road experiences to new culinary heights. Choosing the right grill and mastering your grilling techniques not only allows you to enjoy mouthwatering meals wherever you park but also adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your camping adventures. Safety should always be paramount in your grilling endeavors, and understanding the different mounting options can help ensure a secure and convenient setup for your grill.

Remember that grilling is both a science and an art, and part of the fun is experimenting to find what works best for you. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or a camping novice, embracing the world of grilling can enhance your camping experiences and create delightful memories that extend far beyond the table. So, fire up your grill, put on your apron, and let your RV or camper grilling journey begin!