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How to Make Your Own Camping Grill

Camping isn't just about sleeping under the stars; it's also about enjoying mouthwatering grilled food in nature. Imagine the smell of freshly grilled burgers or veggies drifting through the trees. Building your own portable camping grill can improve your outdoor cooking experience and help you save some cash. This guide outlines 10 creative ways to make a portable camping grill that will impress your friends and family.


1. Tin Can Grill


A tin can grill is a practical option for those who want something simple and effective.


  1. Remove both ends of a clean, empty tin can.

  2. Use a can opener to create several holes around the sides for better airflow.

  3. Fill the bottom with charcoal or wood chips for fuel.

  4. Set a grill rack on top to cook your favorite food.


This idea is not only budget-friendly but also lightweight, making it perfect for backpacking.


Tin Can Grill
An empty tin can transformed into a handy grill.

2. Bricks and Grill Grate


If you have access to bricks, they can serve as a stable base for grilling.


  1. Arrange the bricks in a square or rectangular formation, leaving an open space in the middle for a fire.

  2. Once your fire is going, place a grill grate on top of the bricks.

  3. This setup provides a sturdy grilling surface.


Adding bricks creates a makeshift grill that can be easily assembled and disassembled.


Bricks and Grill Grate
Bricks lined to create a makeshift grill setup.

3. Portable Charcoal BBQ


Building a portable charcoal BBQ is easier than you think.


  1. Find a metal container, like an old toolbox or a small barrel.

  2. Create air holes in the sides for ventilation.

  3. Fill the bottom with charcoal and light it.

  4. Position a grill rack over the top to cook your food.


This type of grill can be particularly effective for cooking steaks or chicken, providing that smoky flavor we all love.


Portable Charcoal BBQ
A small metal container serving as a charcoal BBQ grill.

4. Wire Hanger Grill


If you're looking for an eco-friendly solution, wire hangers can easily be converted into a grill.


  1. Unwind a wire hanger to create a long, straight piece of metal.

  2. Bend it into a rectangular shape to form your grilling surface.

  3. Use a second hanger to create stable legs to support your grill over the fire.


This method is lightweight and perfect for cooking small items like hot dogs or vegetables quickly.


Wire Hanger Grill
A wire hanger bent to form a makeshift grill.

5. Soda Can Stove


A soda can stove can offer a quick and efficient way to cook.


  1. Cut the top and bottom off a soda can, leaving an open cylinder.

  2. Create small holes around the sides for airflow.

  3. Fill the can with alcohol fuel and ignite it to cook quickly.


This option is great for heating up meals or making instant coffee while camping.


Soda Can Stove
A soda can stove ready for use.

6. Cinder Block Grill


If you happen to have cinder blocks, they can be configured to create a larger grilling surface.


  1. Arrange the cinder blocks in a rectangular shape, leaving a large opening in the center for the fire.

  2. Place a grill grate on top to hold your food.


Cinder blocks not only provide a solid base but also retain heat, making them effective for grilling larger items like ribs or whole vegetables.


Cinder Block Grill
Cinder blocks creating a robust frame for a grill.

7. Foldable Grilling Basket


A foldable grilling basket is an excellent tool for grilling smaller items.


  1. Purchase or create a wire basket that can collapse for easy transport.

  2. This basket can hold vegetables, fish, or smaller cuts of meat, making it easier to cook without losing anything through the grill.


With this option, you can grill a mix of different foods simultaneously while keeping everything organized.


Foldable Grilling Basket
An example of a foldable grilling basket.

8. Foil Grill


If you want a quick and disposable grill option, aluminum foil works just fine.


  1. Shape heavy-duty aluminum foil into a basket-like form.

  2. Puncture holes to allow smoke to escape.

  3. Fill the basket with fresh ingredients, seal it, and place it over the fire.


This method is perfect for cooking seasonal veggies, fish, or even preparing individual foil pack meals.


Foil Grill
A makeshift grill using aluminum foil.

9. Campfire Cooking Rack


Using a basic rack structure can help you take advantage of a campfire.


  1. Use sturdy sticks or metal poles to create a frame over your campfire.

  2. Balance a grill grate or skewer sticks on top to hold your food.


This method adds versatility to your cooking and allows for various techniques, such as direct grilling or using pots for stews.


Campfire Cooking Rack
A campfire rack with food grilling over an open flame.

10. Old BBQ Grill Repurposed


Don’t forget about those old grills sitting in your backyard.


  1. Clean your old BBQ grill thoroughly, removing any rust or debris.

  2. Check for any broken parts and repair as needed.

  3. Make it portable by detaching the legs or using a cart.


This can be a reliable and effective grilling solution, ensuring you can whip up delicious meals effortlessly.


Old BBQ Grill
An old grill repurposed for camping.

Final Thoughts


Making your own portable camping grill can be a fun, rewarding experience. You save money while elevating your outdoor adventures with delicious, grilled meals. Whether using bricks, cans, or even an old BBQ, each of these options ensures you can enjoy tasty foods while sharing good moments with friends and family around the fire.


So, gear up, pick your favorite method, and enjoy delicious grilled dinners under the stars. Get ready for great flavors, and remember to share your cooking adventures with your fellow campers. Happy grilling!

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