If you’ve ever tried to book a vaguely popular camping spot over the summer months you know how difficult it is.
It would seem that Australians are vastly outdoorsy types and any chance we get to escape to the beach or the bush, we’ll take it.
In a bid to avoid the crowds (and beachside mosquitos) my partner and I have started camping inland, where it’s a little bit quieter.
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The problem with this though is that you miss out on a lot of the amenities the coastal, well-stocked campgrounds provide — showers, toilets, firepits and BBQs.
To solve the latter problem, I’ve found the perfect solution in the form of a portable charcoal BBQ, created by chef Heston Blumenthal.
Heston’s brand Everdure produces a full range of BBQs but it’s the charcoal barbie I’ve got my eye on dubbed “the Cube”.
It comes in a range of colours including bright orange, khaki, black and a light grey, and retails for approximately $229 at places like Myer and Kitchen Warehouse.
Not only is the Cube adorable (which satisfies my taste), but it also properly cooks a range of meat products and veggies, giving them that smoky BBQ flavour.
Those that have reviewed the mini BBQ have been struck by how quickly the grates heat up and how easy it is to clean when you’re done.
It will be perfect to not only camp with but to also take to the beach or a picnic, for lunch on the go.
“This is a really great little grill. It’s lightweight, portable, and the top storage compartment is deep enough to hold a mess kit. I have stored tongs, a spatula, rag, cleaner, and a lighter in it,” one reviewer said.
“I was really impressed with how hot it kept the charcoal briquettes and for how long they stayed hot. The design helps retain the heat for hours,” said another.
A third added: “Totally worth the price because it is very easy to clean, compact for easy storage, and best of all it doesn’t take much charcoal or lighter fluid so it heats in a short amount of time”.
To shop the Cube, find it on Myer and at Kitchen Warehouse here.