For all your outdoor cooking, selecting the right BBQ can make or break your experience. Whether you're grilling in your backyard, at a picnic, or deep in the wilderness, the BBQ you choose needs to match your lifestyle and preferences. With so many options available, from bulky gas grills to traditional (hibachi) charcoal BBQs, how do you decide? In this guide, we’ll explore key factors to consider when choosing a BBQ and highlight why the STOV BBQ, with its innovative flatpack design and (triple!!!) fuel options, stands out as the ultimate choice for camping and adventures (and even backyard hangs!).
What to consider when choosing a BBQ
Before looking into why the STOV BBQ changes the game, let’s look at the main factors to consider when selecting a BBQ:
1. Portability
If you’re an outdoor adventurer, portability, a small pack size and weight is crucial. A BBQ that’s heavy or cumbersome to transport can turn a fun camping trip into a logistical nightmare. Look for lightweight (below 5kg), compact designs that are easy to carry and store. And look for a barbecue that comes with its own carry bag to make your life easier.
2. Fuel type
BBQs typically use gas, charcoal, or electricity. Gas BBQs offer quick heat-up times and often precise temperature control, while charcoal delivers that classic smoky flavour. Some BBQs even allow you to switch between fuel types, giving you the best of both worlds. And this is where the STOV BBQ performs amazing - you can use gas or get the charcoal tray accessory and use both wood and charcoal.
3. Ease of use
A good BBQ should be simple to set up and clean, especially when you’re out in nature. Complex assembly or difficult maintenance can take the joy out of grilling.
4. Cooking performance
Your BBQ needs to deliver consistent heat and enough cooking space to feed your group, whether it’s a solo trip or a family gathering. Think about how many people you often cook for so you can find the right size for you. Getting a smaller size means smaller pack size and often you can cook much more on a smaller BBQ than one might think.
5. Durability
Outdoor conditions can be tough, so choose a BBQ made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel to ensure it lasts for years. And look for stainless steel types such as 304 stainless steel (also sometimes still referred to 18/8 stainless steel) that won't rust under regular conditions.
Why the STOV BBQ is the best Choice for camping
Among the many BBQs on the market, the STOV BBQ shines as the ideal companion for camping. Here’s why it ticks all the boxes:
Unmatched portability with flatpack design
The STOV BBQ is designed with adventurers in mind. Weighing just 3.6kg and featuring a flatpack design, it packs down to a slim 47cm x 29cm x 4cm, fitting easily into a backpack, car, or camper van. Unlike bulky traditional BBQs, the STOV BBQ can be assembled in under 60 seconds without tools, making it perfect for spontaneous cook-ups at the beach, park, or campsite. Its heavy-duty carry bag doubles as a grilling mat, keeping your setup clean and organised. Whether you’re hiking, paddle boarding, or road-tripping, the STOV BBQ is your go-to for adventure and camping.
Versatile fuel options: Gas and charcoal
One of the standout features of the STOV BBQ is its flexibility. It primarily runs on a standard EN417 gas cartridges (available at any camping store), delivering 2.4kW of power for quick, efficient cooking (similar to your backyard BBQ). A 460g gas cartridge provides about 200 minutes of grilling time, perfect for multiple meals on a weekend trip. Keep in mind that with a gas BBQ you can in many instances also still cook during fire bans (always check local regulations!).
But what sets the STOV BBQ apart is its optional charcoal tray accessory, which allows you to switch to charcoal for that authentic smoky flavour. This dual-fuel capability means you can enjoy the convenience of gas for quick meals or the rich taste of charcoal for leisurely campfire grilling. As far as we know there is no other portable BBQ in Australia offers this level of versatility, making the STOV BBQ ideal for campers who want options without carrying multiple grills.
Easy to use and clean
The STOV BBQ is ridiculously easy to use. Simply slot together its seven stainless steel plates, attach the gas cartridge, and light it up. After a quick heat-up, you’re ready to cook everything from burgers to fresh fish. Cleaning is just as straightforward, simply scrape off residue, wash with soapy water, or pop the parts in the dishwasher (except the wooden handle). For even easier cleanup, line the base with foil to catch grease.
Serious cooking performance
Don’t let its compact size fool you, the STOV BBQ delivers serious grilling power. Its 31.5cm x 21cm grill grate offers 660cm² of cooking space, enough for 6 burger patties, 1kg of prawns, or 8 corn cobs. Whether you’re searing steaks, grilling veggies, or cooking a bush tucker banquet, the STOV BBQ handles it all with ease. Its 304 stainless steel construction ensures even heat distribution and (very important!) food-safe cooking.
Built to last
Designed in Australia for the rugged Aussie outdoors, the STOV BBQ is crafted from high-quality, rust-resistant 304 stainless steel. This durable material withstands harsh weather, from scorching summer days to frosty winter nights in the Snowies. With a 5-year warranty on the body and grill, you can trust the STOV BBQ to be a long-lasting companion for your adventures. Plus, STOV offsets all emissions from production and shipping, making it an eco-conscious choice.
Real-world praise
Campers and outdoor enthusiasts across Australia rave about the STOV BBQ. One reviewer called it a “game changer” for road trips, noting its compact size and ability to fit in a 4x4 with a large dog. Another praised its performance in the Victorian High Country, where it fed a hungry group of four-wheel drivers. On ProductReview.com.au, it boasts a 5-star rating from 26+ reviews, with users highlighting its portability, quality, and ease of use and on Google there are almost 100+ 5-star reviews.
How the STOV BBQ compares to other barbecue options
Compared to other portable BBQs, the STOV BBQ stands out for its unique combination of portability, versatility, and performance. For example, the Weber Q is powerful but bulky and heavy, making it less ideal for camping. The JetBoil or MSR Dragonfly stoves are great for boiling water but lack the grilling surface for proper BBQ meals. The Darche 450 Stainless Steel BBQ, while comparable, is pricier and doesn’t offer the same flatpack portability or dual-fuel option. At $299, the STOV BBQ is competitively priced for its premium features and Australian design.
Tips for getting the most out of your STOV BBQ
To elevate your camping BBQ experience with the STOV BBQ, try these tips:
- Marinate your food: Use olive oil, herbs, and spices to tenderise meat and add flavour. Check out STOV’s blog for recipes like kangaroo burgers or chilli jam veggie burgers.
- Use the windshield accessory: In windy conditions, the optional windshield boosts burner efficiency for faster cooking.
- Pair with STOV tongs: These stainless steel tongs are designed for precise flipping and even double as a bottle opener.
- Check fire regulations: The STOV BBQ’s gas mode may be allowed during fire bans in some areas, unlike charcoal BBQs. Always verify local rules.
Conclusion: Grill anywhere, anytime with the STOV BBQ
Choosing the right BBQ comes down to finding one that fits your needs without compromising on performance or convenience. For campers, the STOV BBQ is unmatched. Its flatpack design makes it the most portable option, while its ability to use both gas and charcoal (with the charcoal tray accessory) offers unmatched versatility. Add in its durable stainless steel build, easy setup, and glowing reviews, and it’s clear why the STOV BBQ is the best choice for camping.
Ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? Visit www.stov-bbq.com.au to get your STOV BBQ and start grilling anywhere, anytime. Happy stoving!