I finally started using the grill weber go anywhere for my weekend trips, and honestly, it's one of those rare tools that actually lives up to its name. If you've ever tried to cram a full-sized kettle grill into a packed trunk, you know the struggle. It's awkward, it's messy, and it usually ends with charcoal dust all over your sleeping bags. This little rectangular beast changes that whole dynamic. It's not just a smaller version of a standard grill; it's a thoughtfully designed piece of gear for people who actually leave their backyard.
Why the Rectangular Design is a Game Changer
Most portable grills out there are round. While that's classic, it's actually a nightmare when you're trying to pack a car for a camping trip. Round objects create "dead space" in your trunk. The grill weber go anywhere is a solid rectangle, which means it slides into a corner or sits flat under other gear like a small toolbox.
Beyond just packing, the rectangular shape gives you a surprisingly functional cooking surface. You've got about 160 square inches to work with. That doesn't sound like much on paper, but because of the shape, you can actually fit six decent-sized burgers or a couple of large steaks without them overlapping. It feels more spacious than the round "Smokey Joe" models because you aren't fighting with the curved edges.
The Genius of the Folding Legs
The standout feature for me has always been the legs. They're made of plated steel and have a dual purpose that I think is brilliant. When you're cooking, they keep the grill stable and elevated just enough so you don't scorch the picnic table or the grass.
But the real magic happens when you're done. You fold the legs up over the lid, and they lock the whole thing shut. This is a massive deal. It means you can carry it by the handle like a briefcase, and the lid won't fly off. More importantly, it keeps the internal components—the grates and the messy charcoal grate—securely inside. I've carried this thing over rocky paths to get to a beach spot, and it doesn't rattle or fall apart. It's a solid, self-contained unit once those legs are snapped into place.
Controlling the Heat with Precision
One thing I didn't expect from such a small, affordable grill was the level of temperature control. Most cheap portables have one flimsy vent on the top if you're lucky. The grill weber go anywhere features four separate vents: two on the lid and two on the bowl.
This setup allows you to really dial in the airflow. If you want to sear a steak at high heat, you open everything up and let the oxygen flow. If you're trying to do something a bit slower, you can shut down the bottom vents and leave the top ones cracked. It's surprisingly responsive. I've even managed to do some "low and slow" cooking by banking the coals to one side and keeping the meat on the other, creating two distinct heat zones. It's not a smoker, obviously, but for a portable unit, the versatility is impressive.
Mastering the Two-Zone Setup
Speaking of heat zones, it's worth mentioning how easy it is to set up indirect heat on this thing. Because it's long and narrow, you can put your charcoal on the far left and your meat on the far right. I've used this method to cook thick chicken breasts that usually burn on the outside before the inside is done. You sear them over the coals, then slide them over to the "cool" side and pop the lid on. The rectangular shape makes this much more effective than on a small round grill where the "cool" zone is almost non-existent.
Charcoal vs. Propane: Which One to Pick?
It's worth noting that there is a gas version of this grill, but for my money, the charcoal version is the way to go. There's just something about the ritual of lighting the coals when you're out in the woods or at a tailgate. Plus, the charcoal model is even more durable because there are no regulators or burner tubes to worry about.
That said, if you're in an area with strict fire bans or you just hate dealing with ash, the gas version is basically the same body with a different heating element. But if you want that classic flavor and the ability to use wood chunks for a bit of smoke, stick with the charcoal. It's cheaper, and there's fewer things that can break when you're miles away from a hardware store.
Durability and Long-Term Use
Weber is known for their porcelain-enameled finish, and this grill is no exception. The steel is coated in that glass-like finish that resists rust and can handle incredibly high temperatures without peeling. I've left mine out in the rain more times than I'd like to admit, and it hasn't shown a spot of rust.
The handle is made of glass-reinforced nylon, which stays relatively cool to the touch even when the grill is cranking. I still recommend using a glove, but you won't get a "surprise burn" just by reaching for the lid. The only part that really shows wear over time is the charcoal grate at the bottom, which is to be expected since it's sitting directly in the fire. Even then, those parts are cheap and easy to replace if they ever warp after years of use.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Let's be real: cleaning a grill is never fun, especially when you're at a campsite. The grill weber go anywhere makes it about as painless as it can be. Since it's small, you can easily tip the cooled ashes into a trash bag (or a designated ash bin).
To keep the cooking grate in good shape, I usually give it a quick scrape while it's still hot after the food comes off. When I get home, the whole thing is small enough to fit in a utility sink for a proper scrub. If you take five minutes to wipe out the inside after each trip, it'll look new for a decade. The porcelain coating means grease doesn't really "soak in," so it usually just wipes away with some soapy water.
Who Should Actually Buy This?
I wouldn't recommend this as your only grill if you're regularly cooking for a family of five in your backyard. It's just not built for that kind of volume. But if you're a couple who loves to camp, a solo traveler in a van, or someone who hits up every home game tailgate, it's perfect.
It's also great for apartment dwellers with small balconies (check your lease first, of course!). Because it's so compact, it doesn't take up half your outdoor space. It's a specialized tool for specific scenarios, and in those scenarios, it's hard to beat.
Final Thoughts on the Go-Anywhere
At the end of the day, the grill weber go anywhere is a classic for a reason. It doesn't try to be flashy. It doesn't have Bluetooth thermometers or motorized vents. It's just a well-engineered box that holds fire and cooks food reliably.
It's one of those purchases where you don't feel like you're overpaying for a brand name; you're paying for a design that someone clearly spent a lot of time thinking about. Whether I'm tossing it in the back of my truck for a day at the lake or using it for a quick Tuesday night burger on the patio, it just works. If you value portability and want something that will actually last more than one season, this is probably the best bang for your buck you're going to find.