Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill - Versatile

Our review of the Coleman RoadTrip 285 finds it best suited to people who want a portable yet capable propane grill for weekend getaways, tailgates, or small backyard gatherings. The single biggest reason to buy is its balance of a spacious 285 sq. in. cooking area and up to 20,000 BTUs delivered through three adjustable burners, which together let you cook a variety of foods at once without sacrificing temperature control. Setup is straightforward thanks to quick-fold legs and two wheels, so it performs well for users who need grill power that travels.

Key Features

• 20,000 BTU total power: Provides enough heat for searing and steady grilling across the full surface so larger batches cook evenly.
• Three adjustable burners: Improved burner technology gives more precise temperature control for direct searing or lower indirect heat zones.
• 285 sq. in. grilling area: A roomy surface that fits multiple burgers, hot dogs, or a mix of vegetables for group meals.
• Quick-fold legs and wheels: Sturdy folding legs plus two wheels make setup, transport and takedown faster for camping or tailgating.
• Integrated thermometer: Built-in temperature gauge helps monitor grill heat without lifting the lid and losing heat.
• Comprehensive components: Includes a grease tray and side tables for prep and cleanup convenience while cooking outdoors.

Who It's For

The RoadTrip 285 is ideal for campers, tailgaters, and apartment dwellers who need a portable grill that still offers a sizable cooking surface and solid heat output. It works well for small gatherings where you want the flexibility of three burners to manage different foods at once and the convenience of quick setup and wheels for transport.

Those who need a permanent, full-size backyard grill with large fuel capacity or who rely on integrated locking mechanisms for long-term storage may want to look elsewhere. Also, anyone requiring built-in propane hookups or heavy-duty commercial cooking should consider a different type of appliance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Portable design with folding legs and wheels makes it easy to move and store.
• Large 285 sq. in. grate and three burners provide flexible cooking zones for varied meals.
• Push-button Instastart ignition simplifies lighting and gets you grilling quickly.
• Includes handy accessories like side tables and a grease tray for cleaner use.

Cons

• Some users report inconsistent performance or issues with lock functionality, so occasional troubleshooting may be required.
• Uses 1-lb propane cylinders, which are sold separately and require replacement more often than larger tanks.

Specifications

Brand	Coleman
Total BTUs	Up to 20,000 BTUs
Burners	3 adjustable burners
Grilling area	285 sq. in.
Fuel	1-lb propane cylinder (sold separately)
Included components	Grease tray, side tables, folding legs & wheels, integrated thermometer
Warranty	3-year limited warranty

Our Verdict

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a solid value for people who need a transportable grill with genuine cooking capacity; its 20,000 BTU output and three burners give real control and enough surface to feed a small group. While a few users note occasional functional niggles, most will appreciate the quick setup, included accessories, and the versatility for camping, tailgating, and casual backyard use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size propane cylinder does it use?
The grill uses a 1-lb propane cylinder, which is sold separately and easy to swap for transportable use.

How large is the cooking surface?
The RoadTrip 285 offers a 285 sq. in. grilling area, suitable for cooking multiple burgers, hot dogs, and vegetables at once.

Does it include a thermometer?
Yes, an integrated thermometer is built into the lid to help monitor cooking temperature without lifting the cover.