Napoleon TQ285-RD-1-A TravelQ 285 Portable Gas Grill
Quick Verdict
Car camping, tailgating and patio grilling where a large portable cook surface and solid build are valued
Ultralight multi-day backpacking, solo long-distance hiking or strict budget shoppers
Key Specifications
About This Gear
This portable grill offers ample cooking space and solid heat output. It's a bit heavy and the folding legs can be finicky, but it performs well overall.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
6 positive findingsSuperior construction and durability from cast-aluminum body, stainless burners and porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates
Most reviewersExcellent cooking performance with even heat and strong searing ability (dual burners, 12,000 BTU total)
Most reviewersLarge 285 sq in cook area feeds ~4–6 people (about 17 burgers)
Most reviewersQuick, reliable JetFire ignition and straightforward setup/cleaning (slide-out drip tray)
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
6 considerationsRelatively high price compared with simpler portable grills
Most reviewersHeavier than many competitors (~29 lb), limiting backpacking/long-trek use
Most reviewersNo built-in stand/base (tabletop unit) — stand sold separately
Most reviewersSensitive to cross-winds; lacks strong wind shielding
Most reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Performs best in moderate temperatures; propane output drops as temperatures approach freezing
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- mild rain
- moderate temperatures
- coastal and temperate environments
- car-camping and tailgating
Limitations
- Not recommended for winter camping or regular use below ~40°F without propane performance loss
- Wind sensitivity can disrupt flame in gusty conditions
- Short stock hose may limit use with large 20 lb tanks without an adapter
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users overwhelmingly praise the build quality, cooking performance and ease of use; common negatives are weight, price and wind sensitivity.
What Users Love
- durable build
- easy setup
- even heat / good searing
- easy cleaning
Common Concerns
- heavy for a portable
- expensive
- wind sensitivity
- short hose for large tanks
- 10-year limited warranty on cast-aluminum housing; 5 years on burners/grids
- Few reports of mechanical failure; cast-aluminum resists rust if stored dry
not applicable
10-year limited on frame and 5 years on burners; Napoleon generally regarded as responsive though few public claim-resolution reports exist
Expert Reviews
The TravelQ 285 leads the pack for cooking performance and durabilityRead full review →
Superbly designed, easy to use and tough enough to provide delicious al fresco nosh-ups for yearsRead full review →
Big on quality with high-end materials and featuresRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- Empty and clean drip tray regularly
- Dry cast-iron grates and store under cover to prevent oxidation
- Check hoses and gaskets seasonally; perform soapy-water leak tests
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- Piezo igniter can wear out over long-term use
- Hose length inconvenient for 20 lb tanks (stock hose optimized for 1-lb cylinders)
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Weber Q 1200
- smaller cooking area (~189 sq in)
- single burner instead of dual-zone
- lower weight and simpler feature set
When you want simpler, slightly cheaper single-burner portability and built-in conveniences
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear
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