Quick Answer
If you tailgate more than once a season, a griddle carry bag is worth it. It protects your griddle during transport, makes carrying easier, and keeps your vehicle clean. For occasional use, a basic cover may suffice, but a bag adds real convenience and protection.
What to Look for in a Griddle Carry Bag
When choosing a carry bag, focus on fit, padding, and portability. A bag designed for your griddle's size will prevent shifting during transport. Look for padded areas that protect the griddle body and handle, and a shoulder strap for hands-free carrying. The 17" Griddle W/Carry Bag, for example, includes a shoulder strap, padded abrasion areas, and a padded handle, making it easy to move your griddle from the car to the tailgate spot.
Also consider the grease management system. Many griddles have a rear grease tray that can leak if the griddle tips. A good carry bag should accommodate this design without forcing you to remove the tray. If your griddle has a hood, like the 28” Omnivore Griddle with Hood, ensure the bag is tall enough to fit it closed.
28” Omnivore Griddle with Hood
Frequently Asked Questions About Griddle Carry Bags for Tailgating
Can I use a regular griddle cover as a carry bag?
No. A cover is designed for stationary storage and weather protection, not transport. It lacks padding, straps, and a secure closure. A carry bag has padded handles and shoulder straps to protect the griddle and make carrying easier. If you only need dust protection while parked, a cover works; for moving the griddle, get a bag. Use a cover for storage, a bag for transport.
Will a carry bag protect my griddle from rain during tailgating?
A carry bag is primarily for transport and short-term storage. It offers some weather resistance, but it is not waterproof. If rain is expected, use a dedicated griddle cover or store the griddle in a dry area. The bag's main job is to protect the griddle from bumps, scratches, and dirt while moving it. A bag helps against light moisture but is not a rain cover.
Do I need a carry bag if my griddle stays in the car?
Yes, especially if you transport other gear. A bag prevents the griddle from scratching other items and keeps grease or food residue contained. The padded areas also absorb shocks from bumps in the road. Even if you don't carry it far, the bag adds a layer of protection and keeps your vehicle cleaner. A bag protects your griddle and your car, even if you don't carry it far.
Can I fit accessories inside the carry bag with the griddle?
It depends on the bag's design. The 17" Griddle W/Carry Bag is sized for the griddle itself, with room for the hood. Accessories like spatulas or scraper may not fit securely. Check the bag's dimensions and consider a separate accessory pouch or tool roll. Overstuffing can damage the griddle or the bag. Store accessories separately to avoid damage.
Is a carry bag worth it for a large griddle like the 28” Omnivore?
A carry bag is even more important for larger griddles because they are heavier and more awkward to carry. The 28” Omnivore Griddle with Hood weighs more and has a larger footprint. A bag with padded handles and a shoulder strap makes it manageable. Without a bag, you risk dropping the griddle or scratching the hood. If you tailgate often, a bag for a large griddle is a smart investment. Larger griddles benefit more from a carry bag due to weight and size.
Product Facts
- 17" Griddle W/Carry Bag: 17" Adventure Ready Griddle with 17" Cooking Space (267 sq. in.), single stainless-steel H burner, 12,500 BTU output, integrated hood, patented rear grease management system, and piezo ignition. Includes carry bag with shoulder strap, padded abrasion areas, and padded handle. This combo gives you a portable griddle and a purpose-built bag for tailgating. The padded bag protects the griddle during transport, and the shoulder strap makes carrying from the car to the tailgate easier.
