compact cooking for outdoors

8 Best Portable Outdoor Cooking Small Appliances You Need

You're about to take your outdoor cooking to the next level with these 8 portable small appliances that'll let you whip up a feast anywhere. From electric single burner cooktops like Proctor Silex to propane-powered griddles like ROVSUN, each one is designed for portability and ease of use. Consider your power source, weight, and storage needs, as well as temperature control options and ease of cleaning. Whether you're a camper, traveler, or outdoor enthusiast, these appliances will help you cook up a storm. Now, get ready to explore the perfect combination of portability and performance that'll make your outdoor adventures unforgettable.

Proctor Silex Electric Single Burner Cooktop

compact electric cooking solution

The Proctor Silex Electric Single Burner Cooktop is an excellent choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need a reliable and easy-to-use appliance.

This cooktop is incredibly portable, weighing only 2.25 pounds, making it easy to take with you on camping trips or to outdoor events.

With 1200 watts of power, it can heat up quickly, and the adjustable temperature control lets you customize the heat to your needs.

The compact design and easy-to-clean plate also make it perfect for small meals and outdoor cooking.

Best For: Outdoor cooking enthusiasts who need a reliable, portable, and easy-to-use electric cooktop for camping trips or outdoor events.

Pros:

  • Portable and compact design makes it easy to take on the go
  • Fast heating with 1200 watts of power and adjustable temperature control
  • Easy to clean and store with a compact design and hinged coil

Cons:

  • Some users experienced issues with the product's durability and temperature control
  • Not suitable for large meals or heavy-duty cooking
  • Has a single burner, which may not be enough for some users

Techwood Hot Plate Portable Electric Stove

portable electric stove option

When you need a reliable and efficient cooking solution for small spaces, the Techwood Hot Plate Portable Electric Stove is an excellent choice, thanks to its compact design and 1500W power that heats up food quickly.

This mini stove is perfect for dorms, studios, RV/caravans, camping, and everyday use.

You can cook a variety of foods on it, and it's also great as an extra burner to keep food warm.

Plus, it's compatible with all cookwares, including aluminum, copper, cast iron, and non-magnetic stainless steel pans.

With its modern brushed stainless steel housing, non-slip feet, and solid stainless steel riveted handle, you'll have a safe and comfortable cooking experience.

Best For: Students, travelers, and anyone who needs a compact and efficient cooking solution for small spaces.

Pros:

  • Compact and portable design makes it perfect for small spaces
  • Heats up food quickly with its 1500W power
  • Compatible with a wide range of cookware materials

Cons:

  • Takes a while to cool down after use
  • Not suitable for cooking large or long-cooking meals
  • No specific features for advanced cooking techniques

Elite Gourmet Electric Hot Plate Burner

high end portable cooking solution

The Elite Gourmet Electric Hot Plate Burner's compact and portable design makes it an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable cooking solution for small kitchens, camping trips, or office lunches.

With its 1000W power and variable temperature control, you'll have six heat settings to cook, keep food warm, or boil water.

The coiled heating element and stainless-steel drip pan are easy to clean, and the built-in safety features, such as a power indicator light and non-skid feet, provide added peace of mind.

You'll enjoy fast and consistent heating, even heat distribution, and precise temperature control, making it suitable for various cooking tasks.

Just be cautious when handling the hot plate and verify it's placed on a heat-resistant surface.

Best For: This product is ideal for individuals who need a compact and portable cooking solution for small kitchens, camping trips, or office lunches.

Pros:

  • Compact and portable design with variable temperature control
  • Fast and consistent heating with even heat distribution
  • Easy to clean coiled heating element and stainless-steel drip pan with built-in safety features

Cons:

  • Some users find the temperature control to be mostly on or off despite having a dial
  • Users should be cautious when handling the hot plate and ensure it is placed on a heat-resistant surface
  • Some users have reported issues with the product's durability and performance over time

Vayepro Portable Electric Stove Hot Plate

compact cooking on the go

For those who need a reliable and efficient cooking solution for outdoor adventures, the Vayepro Portable Electric Stove Hot Plate stands out as a top choice thanks to its ability to accommodate cookware up to 7.1 inches in diameter and 22 lbs in weight.

You'll appreciate its 1500W power supply, which is perfect for frying, stir-frying, cooking soup, and slow cooking.

The temperature ranges from 80°F to 1058°F, with an indicator light and thermal fuse for overheating protection.

Plus, it's built with corrosion-resistant cast iron heating elements for durability and saves 30% electricity compared to traditional induction cookers.

With its ultra-thin design, compact body, and non-slip rubber feet, you can take it anywhere – from campsites to RVs – and enjoy a hot meal in no time.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and travelers who need a portable and efficient cooking solution for their adventures.

Pros:

  • Portable and compact design makes it easy to take on the go
  • Accommodates a variety of cookware sizes and weights, making it versatile for different cooking needs
  • Saves 30% electricity compared to traditional induction cookers, making it an energy-efficient option

Cons:

  • The hot plate body can get hot during use, which may be a safety concern
  • No specific mention of a carrying case or storage solution for the product
  • May not be suitable for large groups or families due to its single cooktop design

Topwit Electric Hot Pot with Steamer

electric cooking pot combo

If you're a solo traveler or couple looking for a versatile and healthy cooking solution, the Topwit Electric Hot Pot with Steamer is an excellent choice, offering a 1.6L capacity and 304 food-grade stainless steel construction.

This multi-use electric cooker features dual power settings of 200W and 600W, allowing you to adjust the heat according to your cooking needs.

You'll appreciate the dual safety features, including overheating protection and boil dry protection technology, which guarantee safe and worry-free cooking.

With its compact design, weighing just 2.88 pounds, and automatic shut-off feature, this hot pot is perfect for camping, travel, or small kitchens.

Best For: Solo travelers, couples, and small households looking for a versatile and healthy cooking solution.

Pros:

  • Convenient and portable design perfect for camping, travel, or small kitchens
  • Dual safety features, including overheating protection and boil dry protection technology, ensure safe and worry-free cooking
  • Easy to use and clean, with a 304 food-grade stainless steel construction and automatic shut-off feature

Cons:

  • Sticking issues may occur with starchy foods
  • The bottom of the hot pot may get burnt easily
  • Limited capacity of 1.6L, suitable for 1-2 people only

Flame King Propane Burner Gas Stove

portable outdoor cooking option

With its powerful 200,000 BTU heat output, the Flame King Propane Burner Gas Stove is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and high-performance cooking solution for camping, emergency backup, or backyard gatherings.

You'll appreciate the portability and ease of setup, making it perfect for on-the-go cooking.

The 3-sided windscreen provides wind protection, while the fully adjustable heat-control dials allow for precise temperature management.

Plus, the removable and adjustable legs make storage and transport a breeze.

Constructed from durable cast iron, this stove is built to last, and it's backed by a 1-Year Manufacturers Defect Warranty for added peace of mind.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and individuals who need a reliable and high-performance cooking solution for camping, emergency backup, or backyard gatherings.

Pros:

  • Portable and easy to set up, making it perfect for on-the-go cooking
  • Powerful 200,000 BTU heat output for high-performance cooking and frying
  • 3-sided windscreen provides wind protection and fully adjustable heat-control dials allow for precise temperature management

Cons:

  • Poor packaging and rust on legs have been reported by some customers
  • Gas leak from control knobs and small gas hose are some of the common complaints
  • Flimsy construction and cheap plastic knobs have been mentioned in some negative reviews

ROVSUN 2 Burner Portable Propane Griddle

portable propane griddle cooking

The ROVSUN 2 Burner Portable Propane Griddle features adjustable flame size and dual control knobs, allowing you to fine-tune the heat to perfectly cook a variety of dishes simultaneously.

This feature is especially useful when you're cooking for a large group or need to prepare multiple items at once.

Each of the two stainless steel burners provides 10,000 BTUs of heat, giving you a total of 20,000 BTUs.

The piezo ignition design makes lighting the griddle a breeze, and the smooth enameled surface with an oil drip collector facilitates easy cleaning.

The compact and lightweight design, weighing only 16.5 lbs, makes it easy to take with you on your outdoor adventures.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and tailgaters who need a portable and versatile griddle for cooking a variety of dishes on the go.

Pros:

  • Adjustable flame size and dual control knobs allow for precise heat control and simultaneous cooking of multiple dishes.
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store, perfect for outdoor adventures.
  • Smooth enameled surface with oil drip collector facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance.

Cons:

  • Requires a separate 20 lb propane tank (not included), which can add to the overall cost and weight of the product.
  • Some users may find the 16.5 lb weight and 17.3 x 15.4 x 6.3 dimensions to be bulkier than expected.
  • Customer reviews indicate a average rating of 2.4 out of 5 stars, suggesting some users may have had issues with the product's performance or durability.

OVENTE Electric Countertop Double Burner

electric double countertop burner

Having limited kitchen counter space won't hold you back from cooking up a storm with the OVENTE Electric Countertop Double Burner, which boasts a compact and lightweight design.

This electric countertop double burner is perfect for small kitchens or outdoor cooking stations.

With its 1700W power and 5-level temperature control, you can cook a variety of dishes with ease.

The adjustable control knob allows you to set your desired temperature, and the indicator lights let you know when it's reached.

The stainless steel coil hot plates are easy to clean, and the non-slip rubber feet keep the burner stable.

Weighing only 3.5 pounds, this burner is easy to take with you on your outdoor adventures.

Best For: Those with limited kitchen counter space or outdoor cooking stations who need a compact and lightweight electric countertop double burner.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and storage
  • 5-level temperature control with adjustable knob for precise heat settings
  • Easy to clean stainless steel coil hot plates with non-slip rubber feet for stability

Cons:

  • Some customers have reported difficulties with cleaning the non-detachable heating elements
  • No additional features or accessories included beyond the basic burner unit
  • Some users may find the 3.5-pound weight to be too light for stability on certain surfaces

Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Outdoor Cooking Small Appliances You Need

When selecting the perfect portable outdoor cooking small appliances for your needs, you'll want to ponder a few key factors. Consider the size and weight of the appliances, as well as their fuel source. If you need something lightweight and easy to carry, a compact propane grill or portable butane stove might be the best options. Also think about the types of meals you’ll be preparing, as this will help determine the specific features you need in your appliances. For the best small RV kitchen appliances, look for durable construction and easy cleaning options, as well as efficient and versatile cooking capabilities. These features will help ensure that your outdoor cooking experience is convenient and enjoyable.

You'll need to think about how you'll power your appliances, how easy they're to transport, and how much space you have available for storage.

Power Source Options

Your portable outdoor cooking adventures hinge on one essential factor: the power source you choose for your small appliances.

You'll need to weigh the type of power source that suits your outdoor cooking needs. Electric appliances require a 120V and 1500W to 2000W power source, making them ideal for campsites with electrical hookups or generator-powered outdoor cooking.

However, they may not be suitable for areas without electrical hookups.

Propane-powered appliances offer more flexibility, but you'll need to carry a propane tank and provide proper ventilation.

Some appliances come with dual power sources, such as electric and propane, giving you more options.

If you're looking for a sustainable option, solar-powered appliances are available, but they may have limited cooking power and slower cooking times.

Battery-powered appliances offer portability and convenience, but you'll need to recharge them frequently and may have limited cooking time.

Think about the power source that best fits your outdoor cooking style and the type of adventures you plan to undertake.

Portability and Weight

Now that you've chosen the right power source for your outdoor cooking adventures, you'll want to make certain the appliances you select are portable and lightweight enough to take with you on the go.

A good rule of thumb is to look for appliances that weigh between 2-5 pounds, making them easy to carry and store. For example, the Proctor Silex Electric Single Burner Cooktop weighs just 2.25 pounds.

Compact designs with smaller footprints, like the Techwood Hot Plate Portable Electric Stove, are also ideal for easy storage in small spaces like camping gear or RVs.

Additionally, consider appliances with handles, such as the Vayepro Portable Electric Stove Hot Plate, which make transportation and placement a breeze.

Non-slip rubber feet, found on models like the Elite Gourmet Electric Hot Plate Burner, provide stability on various surfaces and prevent scratching or damage.

Size and Storage

Compact portable outdoor cooking small appliances are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, as they offer the perfect solution for limited storage space in small kitchens, camping gear, or RVs, and allow you to cook delicious meals on the go.

When choosing a portable outdoor cooking appliance, you'll want to verify the size and storage requirements. Measure the space where you'll be storing the appliance and compare it to the product dimensions to confirm a good fit.

Don't assume that a smaller appliance means fewer features – many modern portable outdoor cooking appliances are designed to be space-efficient while still offering multiple cooking functions.

The material and construction of the appliance can also impact its size and storage requirements, with durable materials like stainless steel often being more compact than others.

Ease of Cleaning

When choosing a portable outdoor cooking small appliance, you'll want to prioritize ease of cleaning, as a hassle-free cleaning process can greatly enhance your overall cooking experience.

A smooth, non-stick surface or a dishwasher-safe design can make cleaning easier and more efficient. Look for appliances with removable parts, such as drip trays or griddles, that can be easily washed and dried to prevent food residue buildup.

Appliances with a stainless steel or enamel coating can be more resistant to scratches and corrosion, making cleaning less of a hassle.

Additionally, some portable outdoor cooking appliances come with specialized cleaning tools, such as a scraper or brush, to help remove food residue and debris.

Consider appliances with a compact and lightweight design, making them easier to store and transport, which can also reduce the likelihood of food residue and spills.

Temperature Control Options

As you've verified your portable outdoor cooking appliance is easy to clean, you'll also want to weigh the temperature control options that suit your cooking style, allowing you to achieve the perfect heat for your favorite dishes.

The range of temperature control options is vast, from basic on/off switches to advanced digital displays with precise temperature settings.

Some appliances feature multi-level temperature controls, such as low, medium, and high heat settings, which provide more flexibility for cooking various types of food.

Adjustable temperature controls are particularly useful for delicate foods that require precise heat management, like cooking eggs or melting chocolate.

Digital temperature controls may also come with additional features, such as timer functions or specific heat presets for common cooking tasks, like boiling water or searing meat.

When choosing a portable outdoor cooking appliance, consider the type of cooking you plan to do most frequently and select a model with temperature control options that align with your needs.

Durability and Build Quality

Kick your outdoor cooking adventures into high gear by investing in a portable appliance that's built to last, with a durability and build quality that can withstand the rough and tumble world of outdoor exploration.

When shopping for a portable outdoor cooking appliance, look for one that's constructed with high-quality, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or heavy-duty plastics. A minimum weight capacity of 20 pounds provides stability, while a smooth, rust-resistant coating makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze.

The appliance's electrical components, such as the heating elements and ignition system, should be protected from moisture and humidity to prevent electrical shocks or fires.

A secure and stable base with non-slip feet or a weighted base prevents the appliance from tipping over, thus guaranteeing a safe cooking experience.

Conclusion

You've got the perfect portable outdoor cooking small appliances to elevate your outdoor cooking game!

From electric hot plates to propane burners, these appliances offer convenience, portability, and versatility.

Whether you're camping, RVing, or just enjoying a backyard BBQ, these appliances will help you whip up delicious meals on-the-go.

Remember to bear in mind factors like power source, size, and safety features when choosing the right one for your needs.