Grilling outside of your own backyard requires a little extra planning, but the reward of delicious food in a great setting is, in our opinion, completely worth the added effort. This guide will walk you through everything to consider when prepping your food so it’s ready to hit the grill, no matter if you're tailgating, camping, or enjoying a day at the beach.
Choose the Right Grill
When space and portability are key, selecting the right grill is crucial. You'll want something compact and easy to transport without compromising the ability to achieve that perfect sear. Consider options like portable charcoal grills, compact gas grills, or even foldable grill grates for cooking over a campfire.
Our Grill is designed for serious heat control—at home, at the tailgate, or off the grid. And don't forget the essentials to get your fire going, whether it's charcoal, lighter fluid, kindling, or a propane tank. Our Grill can be used with charcoal, hardwood, or binchotan.
Pack Tools Like a Pro
Just like a chef needs their knives, a grill master needs their tools. Think beyond just tongs and a spatula. A quality set of Grill Tools is a must, but also consider bringing a Butcher Block and/or Grill Prep Tray for safe and convenient food prep, a reliable instant-read thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked proteins, and even shatter-proof Outdoor Plateware for worry-free dining.
Don't forget cupboard essentials like grill mitts, aluminum foil, paper towels, and trash bags for easy cleanup. And if you want a go-anywhere flattop experience, be sure to pack your Carbon Steel Griddle and Grill Press.
Plan Your Menu Strategically
Keep your menu simple and manageable for grilling on the go. Choose items that travel well and don't require extensive on-site preparation, like smash burgers, grilled shrimp, or chicken wings . Think about how many people you'll be feeding and pack accordingly to minimize waste, while considering food preferences and any dietary restrictions.
Prep as Much As Possible
The key to a stress-free grilling experience away from home lies in meticulous preparation before you even leave the house. By tackling as much as possible in your kitchen, you'll minimize mess, reduce the amount of equipment you need to bring, and maximize your time enjoying the great outdoors (and delicious food).
Proteins:
- Prep: Thoroughly trim any excess fat or silver skin from your chosen proteins (steaks, chicken, pork, etc.). Peel and devein shrimp or remove skin if necessary from fish. Consider cutting larger pieces into individual portions for easier grilling and serving. For kabobs, soak wooden skewers if necessary and chop vegetables and protein into uniform sizes. Build the skewers in advance so they are ready for the grill when you arrive.
- Portion: Divide protein like ground beef for burgers into individual servings or manageable family-sized portions. This makes packing, grilling, and serving much simpler.
- Season or Marinade: This is where you can infuse incredible flavor. Consider the optimal seasoning and marinating times for the foods you are cooking. Beef, pork, and chicken can be seasoned or marinated in advance to allow the flavors to penetrate, while most delicate seafood should be salted no more than an hour before cooking (so you would do that on site). Store marinated items in leak-proof containers or resealable bags.
- Sauces: Prepare any accompanying sauces or glazes ahead of time and store them in separate, clearly labeled containers. This prevents spills and keeps flavors distinct until serving.
- Garnishes: Chop herbs, slice onions, cut citrus into wedges, or prepare any other garnishes you plan to use. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Sides:
- Prep in Advance: Many side dishes can be prepped or even fully made ahead of time. Think about pasta or potato salad, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables that can be blanched or partially cooked in the oven at home and finished on the grill for added smoky flavor. Chop all necessary vegetables for grilling or salads.
- Dressing & Sauces: Prepare salad dressings and any sauces for your sides in advance and store them separately. Dressings can often make salads soggy if applied too early. Or choose hardy salad greens like kale, Brussels sprouts, or cabbage that can be dressed ahead of time.
Consider Transport
Efficient packing is crucial when grilling on the go. Utilize prep kits or leak-proof containers of various sizes to keep your ingredients separate and secure during transport. If you won't have access to washing facilities, disposable or recyclable containers and cutlery can be a game-changer for cleanup. For multi-day trips, employ a strategic packing order: items you'll need last should go on the bottom, with those needed first readily accessible on top.
Maintaining food safety is non-negotiable, especially when you're away from home. Invest in high-quality coolers and ensure you have an adequate amount of ice or ice packs to keep your ingredients at a safe temperature (below 40°F or 4°C). Consider using separate coolers for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Know the Local Regulations
Check the rules or restrictions regarding open flames or grilling at your chosen location. Many beaches, parks, and campsites have specific guidelines about where and when grilling is permitted, and some may prohibit it altogether during certain times of the year due to fire risk. A quick check online or a call to the local authorities can save you from potential fines or a disappointing end to your grilling plans.
Ready to Grill?
- Made In Grill
- Grill
- $499
By following this prep-ahead game plan, you'll arrive at your grilling destination relaxed and ready to cook up a feast. The extra effort in your kitchen (and using the proper grilling tools) will translate to a smoother, cleaner, and ultimately more enjoyable grilling experience wherever your adventures take you.
