Should you buy the Napoleon TravelQ 285 portable gas grill? Detailed review!

Description

Features

The Napoleon TravelQ 285 Portable Propane Gas Grill immediately caught my attention with its sleek blue design and robust build. The cast aluminum body feels solid and durable, which is a huge plus for someone who often grills outdoors. Its 285 square inches of cooking space is quite impressive for a portable grill, accommodating up to 17 burgers at once—a lifesaver during family gatherings or tailgating events. The dual stainless steel burners provide 12,000 BTUs of heat, ensuring even cooking across the cast iron grates. These grates, by the way, are a gem! They create those gorgeous sear marks and prevent food from slipping through, which I always find satisfying. The integrated folding legs and removable grease tray make the setup and breakdown super convenient.

Ease of Use

Using this grill feels intuitive and hassle-free. I didn’t need an advanced engineering degree to assemble it—thankfully! The JetFire ignition system is a standout feature. It lights up effortlessly every single time, sparing me the frustration of multiple attempts. Adjusting the temperature with the two burners is straightforward, and the knobs are responsive. While grilling, I could easily control the heat distribution, making it suitable for both direct and indirect cooking. I even tried roasting a small chicken by keeping one burner off and placing the bird on the cooler side. It worked like a charm! My kids loved experimenting with grilling veggies, and they found the controls easy to manage too.

Durability

Durability is another area where this grill shines. The cast aluminum construction not only makes it lightweight but also resistant to rust. After several uses, including a particularly windy camping trip, it still looks as good as new. The stainless steel burners and powder-coated finish also contribute to its long-lasting appeal. However, I did notice some minor scratches on the lid after transporting it without a cover. Lesson learned—use a protective cover when moving it around! Despite these small marks, the grill’s overall integrity remains intact.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill is less of a chore compared to others I’ve owned. The removable grease tray is a game-changer. It slides out smoothly, and I could easily wash it with soapy water. The cast iron grates take a bit more effort, but seasoning them before use helps a lot in minimizing stuck-on residues. I spent about 10 minutes cleaning after grilling burgers and hotdogs for a party of eight, which isn’t bad at all. The smooth interior design also makes it simpler to wipe down any spills or grease.

Grilling Performance

This grill’s performance is nothing short of spectacular. I’ve tested it with steaks, chicken, burgers, and even some delicate items like fish. The heat distribution across the grates is even, and the dual-burner system ensures that I can achieve a perfect sear or a slow roast, depending on what I’m cooking. The lid traps heat efficiently, reaching high temperatures in no time. I was amazed at how quickly it preheated to 575°F during a rainy day tailgating event. Even in cooler temperatures, it maintained consistent heat, which is a big deal when cooking outdoors.

Temperature Control

Controlling the temperature is a breeze with this grill. The two independently controlled burners allow for versatile cooking. I experimented with cooking kabobs on one side at high heat while keeping veggies warm on the other, and the results were fantastic. The knobs feel sturdy and offer precise adjustments. My only gripe is the lack of a built-in thermometer. I had to use a separate tool to gauge the grill’s internal temperature, which felt a bit inconvenient.

Portability & Storage

Portability is where this grill truly excels. Weighing just under 20 pounds, it’s light enough for me to carry around without breaking a sweat. The folding legs and wheels make it easy to store and transport. I’ve taken it camping, to the beach, and even to a friend’s backyard party. The compact size is perfect for fitting into the trunk of my car. Folding it down takes seconds, and storing it upright in my garage saves a ton of space. However, I’d recommend investing in a good cover to protect it during transport to avoid scratches.

Warranty

The warranty offered by Napoleon is decent and provides peace of mind. While I haven’t had to use it yet, knowing that the brand stands behind their product adds to my confidence in its durability and quality. The documentation was clear on what’s covered, which is always a plus.

Pluses

• Dual burners for versatile cooking.
• Sturdy cast aluminum construction.
• Effortless JetFire ignition system.
• Compact and portable design.
• Removable grease tray for easy cleaning.

Areas for Improvement

• No built-in thermometer for temperature monitoring.
• Slightly prone to scratches during transport.
• Low heat settings could be more precise.

Product Alternatives

When comparing the Napoleon TravelQ 285 to other portable grills, a few contenders come to mind. The Weber Q2200 shares a similar cast aluminum build but has only one burner, limiting its flexibility for indirect cooking. On the other hand, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 offers a bit more portability with its collapsible design but doesn’t match the even heat distribution or build quality of the Napoleon grill. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet is compact and budget-friendly but lacks the robust construction and grilling space of the TravelQ 285. The Napoleon grill stands out for its dual burners and overall durability, making it a superb choice for both casual and serious grillers.

Bang for the Buck

Is this grill worth the investment? Absolutely. While it might be priced slightly higher than its competitors, the quality, performance, and thoughtful design justify the cost. The cast iron grates alone add significant value, and the convenience of features like the folding legs and JetFire ignition make it a standout product. It’s the kind of grill that feels like it’ll last for years, making it a smart buy for anyone who loves outdoor cooking.

Additional information