The Ultimate Guide to Camping BBQs and Hotplates | Outdoor Cooking
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Why Outdoor BBQ Cooking Matters
Camping in Australia wouldn’t be complete without a proper BBQ setup. Whether you’re parked up at a caravan site or bush camping off the beaten track, being able to cook hearty meals outdoors is part of the lifestyle. A bbq grill or hotplate isn’t just a piece of gear — it’s the heart of the campsite, where food, family, and friends come together.
But there’s more than one way to BBQ. Understanding the difference between cooking on a grill and a hotplate will help you get better results and make the most of your outdoor cooking equipment.
Cooking on a BBQ Grill
A bbq grill uses open grates that allow flames and smoke to pass through. This method is all about direct heat and smoky flavour.
Pros of BBQ Grilling:
Authentic Flavour: Food takes on a smoky, flame-grilled taste.
Perfect for Meat: Steaks, sausages, and kebabs sear beautifully, locking in juices.
Less Oil: Fat drips away, creating leaner meals.
Tips for Grilling Success:
Preheat the grill for at least 10–15 minutes for even cooking.
Create two zones: one for direct heat (searing) and one for indirect heat (slow cooking).
Avoid pressing meat down on the grill — it squeezes out juices.
Use a lid if your portable bbq grill has one — it helps cook thicker cuts more evenly.
👉 A grill is best when you want that classic BBQ flavour and don’t mind a bit of flame-kissed char.
Cooking on a BBQ Hotplate
A bbq plate (or hotplate) provides a flat, solid surface for cooking. It’s versatile and allows you to cook foods that would fall through grill grates.
Pros of Hotplate Cooking:
Versatility: Cook everything from bacon and eggs to stir-fries and pancakes.
Even Heat: Stainless steel or cast-iron plates distribute heat well.
Easier for Beginners: More forgiving than open grilling.
Tips for Hotplate Cooking:
Oil the surface lightly before cooking to prevent sticking.
Use medium heat for eggs, pancakes, or delicate foods.
Perfect for mixed meals — fry veggies, toast bread, or cook meat all on one surface.
A stainless steel bbq plate is easier to clean and resists rust, making it ideal for caravanners.
👉 A hotplate is your go-to for variety, convenience, and cooking smaller or delicate foods.
Safety & Maintenance for Portable BBQs and Hotplates
Cooking outdoors means thinking about safety and gear care.
Always cook on stable, level ground.
With wood or charcoal, wait until flames have settled into embers before cooking.
For gas grills, check fittings for leaks before use.
Clean your bbq plate or grill while still warm to prevent stubborn build-up.
Store gear dry to avoid rust and damage.
Grill vs Hotplate: Which Should You Choose?
Choose a BBQ Grill if: You love smoky flavour, mostly cook meat, and want that flame-grilled finish.
Choose a BBQ Hotplate if: You want flexibility, prefer easy clean-up, or plan to cook breakfasts, fish, or stir-fries.
Best of Both Worlds: A hybrid design — like a two-in-one hotplate and grill — lets you enjoy seared steaks on one side and fry up veggies or eggs on the other.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a weekend camper or a full-time caravanner, the right setup makes a big difference. A portable camping bbq grill gives you flavour and char, while a bbq plate gives you versatility and control. Together, they open up endless options for outdoor cooking.
👉 Ready to upgrade your setup? Explore our range of portable bbq grills, durable bbq plates, and hybrid designs that combine the best of both worlds — perfect for Australian caravanning and camping.