Napoleon TravelQ 285X with Cart Review

Napoleon’s new TravelQ TQ285X is one impressive little clam shell style portable BBQ gasser, with some unique features not found from competitors. The collapsible stand is functional and solid, even Weber’s Q Series portable cart is rickety in comparison. Large wheels coupled with quality design and construction make the 285X an all-terrain tailgater that can easily be folded up and stowed in a vehicle then pulled across, pavement, gravel and grass by one person.

The powder coated blue steel body snaps shut, holding the coated cast iron cooking grate in place for easy, secure transport. Two stainless steel circular burners independently heat the right and left side making 2-zone, direct/indirect grilling possible. Most little portables have only one burner, limiting cooking performance. With 2-zones you can gently cook chicken parts on the moderate, indirect heat zone, then crisp the skin on the hot, direct zone. Likewise, you can avoid sausage explosions by starting indirect and finishing direct.

Napoleon employs JETFIRE ignition: electric igniters that fire up each burner separately when you turn the control knobs, a nice feature usually reserved for full size gassers. A stainless steel windscreen over the back vent helps maintain heat and prevent burner blowout.

Napoleon’s folding scissor cart is heavy duty, yet lightweight at 42 pounds total including the grill. As demonstrated in the above video, it pops up and snaps firmly in place for use, then collapses and snaps shut for travel. You’ll notice the solid feel of this superior device compared to collapsible travel carts for other portables. Two large side tables have integrated towel and tool holders. There is a small, removable grease tray underneath and it runs on standard one pound propane cylinders. An optional hose enables use of a 20 pound LP tank.