BBQ season in Australia is coming up soon. If you want to grill without spending too much, this guide can help. We’ve rounded up the best barbecues under A$200 that deliver great value and solid performance for 2026. Looking for a portable grill for camping, a gas BBQ for fast cooking, or a charcoal grill for smoky flavor? We've got options that won't cost a fortune.

Quick Comparison: Best Barbecues Under A$200 for Australia BBQ Season 2026

  • Kmart 2-Burner Portable BBQ – Ideal for beginners, easy to carry, A$90
  • Cadac Carri Chef 2 Lite – Versatile and compact, A$180
  • Weber Q1200 Portable Gas BBQ – Slightly over budget but often on sale near A$200
  • Elite Gourmet Portable Charcoal BBQ – Great for charcoal fans, A$75
  • Sunbeam 3 Burner LPG BBQ – Larger cooking area, A$200

1. Kmart 2-Burner Portable BBQ

Key features: Two gas burners powered by standard LPG, foldable legs for easy transport and storage, lightweight metal body, cooking surface measuring approximately 32cm by 45cm. This BBQ keeps things simple with manual ignition and easy-to-use temperature dials.

Pros: Priced at about A$90, this BBQ is one of the most affordable options on the market, making it perfect for those on a tight budget or first-time grillers. It’s lightweight and portable, weighing only around 6kg, which suits camping trips, beach days, or small backyard gatherings. You can set it up in less than five minutes, and it works well with small LPG bottles you can find all over Australia.

Cons: The compact cooking area limits how much you can grill at once, making it less suitable for larger groups. The burners are relatively small, which may affect heat distribution and cooking speed.

The build quality is basic; some users note that the materials feel flimsy and recommend careful handling to avoid damage. It lacks advanced features like a lid thermometer or side shelves, which more expensive models offer.

Best for: Beginners, casual BBQ enthusiasts, campers, and anyone needing a portable grill without spending much. Ideal for cooking sausages, burgers, and smaller cuts of meat for 2-4 people.

Price: Approximately A$90, available at Kmart stores nationwide and online as of early 2026.

2. Cadac Carri Chef 2 Lite

Key features: A versatile portable gas BBQ featuring two burners with independent heat controls, removable grill plates that convert between grilling and frying surfaces, and a compact fold-up design for easy transport. The cooking area measures roughly 40cm by 30cm, providing a decent space for a variety of food. The unit weighs about 7.5kg and includes a carry bag.

Pros: The Cadac Carri Chef 2 Lite is flexible—you can grill, fry, or bake if you have the right accessories. Its sturdy aluminium and steel build ensures durability, and the removable plates make cleaning straightforward. It also folds up neatly, making it a favourite for caravanners, campers, and outdoor cooks. The two burners offer good heat control, which is handy for cooking different foods simultaneously.

Cons: Priced at around A$180, it’s at the higher end of this budget roundup. Some users report the lid feels a bit light and less robust, which might be a concern if you’re rough with gear. Also, the smaller cooking surface means it’s still best suited to small groups or families rather than large gatherings.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who want a compact, multi-functional BBQ that can adapt to different cooking styles. Great for weekend campers, caravanners, and those who appreciate a neat fold-up design for transport.

Price: Around A$180, available at retailers like BCF and online stores across Australia as of 2026.

Mastheads

3. Weber Q1200 Portable Gas BBQ

Key features: A compact single-burner gas BBQ featuring a durable cast aluminium lid and body, porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates, and a cooking area of 43cm by 32cm. It has a built-in thermometer, electronic ignition, and sturdy legs that fold for storage. The unit weighs approximately 11.5kg.

Pros: Weber is well-known for quality, and the Q1200 delivers steady heat and cooks food evenly. The cast aluminium lid and body provide durability and help maintain steady temperatures. It’s well-suited for those who want a premium portable BBQ that heats quickly and cooks evenly. The built-in thermometer is handy for monitoring grill temps, and the porcelain-enameled grates are easy to clean and resist rust.

Honestly, cons: The Q1200 usually retails for about A$300 but is often found on sale around A$200, making it borderline for this budget guide. Its single burner means limited cooking space compared to two-burner models. It’s also heavier than some other portable options, which might be a drawback for frequent travellers or campers.

Best for: BBQ lovers who want a high-quality portable gas grill and can catch a sale to bring it close to the A$200 mark. Perfect for smaller families or couples who want reliable heat and build quality.

Price: Typically around A$300, but frequently discounted to near A$200 at major retailers and online during promotional periods in 2026.

4. Elite Gourmet Portable Charcoal BBQ

Key features: Compact charcoal BBQ with a 34cm diameter cooking grate, foldable legs, and a vented lid for heat control. The BBQ is lightweight at roughly 5kg and includes a removable ash catcher for easy cleaning. It’s designed for quick charcoal ignition and portability.

Pros: Priced at about A$75, this is one of the most budget-friendly charcoal BBQs available. It gives BBQ fans the authentic smoky flavour that only charcoal can deliver. This’s also very portable and quick to set up, making it popular for picnics, beach outings, and camping. The vented lid helps control airflow and temperature, which is handy for managing cooking times.

Cons: Charcoal cooking requires more attention and time than gas, so it’s less convenient for quick meals. The smaller cooking surface limits the quantity you can cook at once.

Also, it lacks any advanced features like side tables or temperature gauges. This metal can get very hot, so care is needed during use.

Best for: Traditionalists and charcoal BBQ lovers who want a cheap, simple grill to take outdoors. Ideal for casual cooks who enjoy the process and flavour of charcoal grilling.

Price: Approximately A$75, widely available at discount stores and online in 2026.

5. Sunbeam 3 Burner LPG BBQ

Key features: A three-burner gas BBQ with a cooking surface measuring 60cm by 40cm, providing ample space for cooking multiple items simultaneously. The unit features push-button ignition, adjustable heat controls for each burner, and a stainless steel body for durability. It weighs around 14kg and includes foldable legs for portability.

Here's the thing — point is, pros: At A$200, this BBQ offers the largest cooking area in this roundup, making it suitable for bigger gatherings. The three burners allow for versatile cooking zones, letting you grill different foods at varying temperatures. The stainless steel construction adds longevity and rust resistance, important in Australian coastal environments. It’s still portable enough to take to a park or campsite, especially if you have a vehicle to carry it.

Cons: Heavier and bulkier than the other portable options, so not ideal for backpackers or those needing ultra-light gear. Some users mention the ignition system can be temperamental, requiring manual lighting occasionally. The build quality is functional but not premium, so it may not last as long as higher-end models.

Look, best for: Families or groups who want a larger cooking surface while sticking to a modest budget. Good for backyard BBQs, picnics, and car camping where portability is important but weight is less of an issue.

Price: Approximately A$200, available from major department stores and online retailers across Australia in 2026.

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The Australia BBQ season 2026 offers plenty of options under A$200 that suit different needs — from portable gas models to traditional charcoal grills. Whether you’re kicking off your first BBQ season with the budget-friendly Kmart 2-Burner, seeking the versatility of the Cadac Carri Chef 2 Lite, or aiming for the larger cooking area of the Sunbeam 3 Burner, there’s a model here to match your lifestyle. Charcoal fans won’t be left out either, with the Elite Gourmet providing authentic flavour at a bargain price. Keep an eye on sales to snag the Weber Q1200 near the A$200 mark if you want a trusted brand with premium features. Whichever you choose, these grills will have you ready to cook up a storm this summer without blowing your budget.

This article was created with AI assistance.