Few brands have the recognition and reputation of Traeger in the world of outdoor cooking. Among their impressive lineup of grills and smokers, the Traeger Tailgater 20 stands out as one of the most versatile and portable options available to outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
This comprehensive review will explore everything you need to know about the Traeger Tailgater 20 and whether it’s the right investment for your outdoor cooking needs.
What Is the Traeger Tailgater 20?
The Traeger Tailgater 20 is a portable wood pellet grill that delivers the authentic wood-fired flavor Traeger is renowned for, all within a compact, travel-friendly design. As its name implies, this model prioritizes mobility, making it ideal for tailgating events, camping trips, or any outdoor gathering where space is limited.
This grill operates using compressed hardwood pellets as fuel. An auger system feeds the pellets into a fire pot, where they are ignited to generate heat and smoke. This unique combination creates the distinctive flavor profile associated with Traeger grills—merging elements of traditional grilling with the essence of classic smoking.
Key Specifications
- Dimensions: 37″L x 18″W x 36″H (when assembled)
- Weight: 60-62 pounds
- Cooking Surface: 300 square inches
- Pellet Hopper Capacity: 8 pounds
- Temperature Range: 180-450°F
- Power Source: Electric (120V AC) and wood pellets
- Price: $479.95-$529.99
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Design and Build Quality
The Traeger Tailgater 20 features a barrel-shaped cooking chamber made from powder-coated steel. While not as thick as the steel found on Traeger’s premium models, the construction is sturdy enough to withstand regular use while keeping the unit’s weight manageable for transportation.
One of the Tailgater’s most notable design features is its foldable legs, which can be collapsed for transportation and storage. When fully extended, these legs provide a stable cooking platform. When folded, they significantly reduce the grill’s footprint, making it easier to transport in the back of a truck or SUV.
The Tailgater 20’s bronze lid adds a touch of style, differentiating it from many grills’ traditional black finish. The porcelain-coated grill grates are easy to clean and provide excellent heat retention during cooking.
On the left side of the unit sits the pellet hopper, which has an 8-pound capacity. While smaller than the hoppers found on Traeger’s full-sized models (which typically hold 18-22 pounds), this capacity is appropriate for the Tailgater’s portable nature and is sufficient for 4-7 hours of cooking, depending on temperature settings.
Features and Technology
Despite its compact size, the Traeger Tailgater 20 doesn’t skimp on features. Here’s what makes this portable grill stand out:
Digital Arc Controller
The Tailgater comes equipped with Traeger’s Digital Arc Controller, which maintains temperatures within approximately 15°F of the set point. This controller is a significant upgrade from older Traeger models, providing more precise temperature management for consistent cooking results.
6-in-1 Versatility
Like all Traeger grills, the Tailgater 20 offers impressive cooking versatility. Users can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ on this single unit. This versatility makes it possible to cook everything from slow-smoked brisket to grilled burgers to baked desserts, all with the distinctive flavor that comes from wood-fired cooking.
Meat Probe
The included meat probe connects directly to the controller, allowing cooks to monitor internal meat temperatures without opening the lid and losing heat. This feature is particularly valuable for longer smoking sessions where maintaining a consistent cooking environment is crucial.
Keep Warm Mode
The Tailgater 20 includes a convenient “Keep Warm” setting that reduces the temperature to 165°F – perfect for holding food at a safe serving temperature until everyone is ready to eat. This feature is useful for entertaining and tailgating scenarios.
Shutdown Cycle
The Traeger Tailgater features a 10-minute automated shutdown cycle that safely extinguishes the fire and prepares the grill for cooling. This safety feature ensures that no live embers remain in the fire pot, reducing fire hazards.
Read more: Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Review
Performance in Real-World Conditions
The true test of any grill is how it performs with actual food in various cooking scenarios. Let’s examine how the Traeger Tailgater 20 handles different cooking tasks:
Low and Slow Smoking
When it comes to traditional smoking at lower temperatures (180-225°F), the Tailgater performs admirably, though with some limitations. The unit can maintain smoking temperatures reasonably well, though many users report fluctuations of 30-50°F from the set point, particularly in windy conditions or colder weather.
Foods like chicken wings, ribs, and pork butts turn out flavorful and tender when smoked on the Tailgater. The smaller cooking chamber helps create a concentrated smoke environment, resulting in good smoke penetration on shorter cooks. For longer smoking sessions, such as brisket or pork shoulder, the Tailgater requires more attention – primarily to monitor and replenish the pellet hopper, which may need refilling during extended cooks.
A common observation from users is that the right side of the grill (near the pellet hopper) tends to run hotter than the left. Rotating food during longer cooks helps address this uneven heat distribution.
Grilling Performance
At higher temperatures (350-450°F), the Tailgater functions well as a grill, though it doesn’t reach the searing temperatures of traditional charcoal or high-end gas grills. Burgers, chicken, and sausages cook evenly and pick up a pleasant smoke flavor that distinguishes them from foods cooked on conventional grills.
The maximum temperature of 450°F is adequate for most grilling tasks but falls short for tasks requiring extreme heat, such as achieving steakhouse-quality sears on beef. For most everyday grilling needs, however, the Tailgater delivers satisfying results with the added benefit of wood-fired flavor.
Baking and Roasting
The consistent, indirect heat of the Tailgater makes it excellent for baking and roasting. Everything from whole chickens to cornbread develops a subtle smoke character that enhances flavor without overwhelming. The digital temperature control, while not perfect, provides enough stability for successful baking projects, though temperature fluctuations mean that close monitoring is advisable for delicate baked goods.
Portability Considerations
The Traeger Tailgater 20’s primary selling point is its portability, but potential buyers should understand what “portable” means in this context. At 60-62 pounds, the Tailgater isn’t something you’ll casually carry long distances. Rather, it’s designed to be transportable from a vehicle to a nearby cooking site.
The foldable legs are a clever design feature, though several reviewers mention that folding and unfolding the legs can be awkward for a single person. The process is much smoother with two people – one to stabilize the grill while the other adjusts the legs.
Perhaps the most significant portability consideration is power. Since the Tailgater requires a standard 120V electrical connection to operate the auger, fan, and controller, true off-grid use requires additional equipment. Options include:
- A generator
- An inverter connected to a vehicle battery (Traeger sells a dedicated inverter for $69.99)
- A portable power station with sufficient capacity
This power requirement means that while the Tailgater is excellent for tailgating events, campgrounds with electrical hookups, or remote locations with generator access, it’s not ideal for primitive camping without additional power solutions.
Setup and Maintenance
Initial Assembly
The Traeger Tailgater 20 ships partially assembled, with the final setup typically taking 30-60 minutes. The assembly process is straightforward, with clear instructions and basic tools provided. Most parts come pre-labeled for easy identification, making this an approachable project even for those who aren’t particularly handy.
Before first use, the grill requires a “burn-in” process to season the interior components. This involves running the grill at 450°F for approximately 45 minutes to burn off manufacturing oils and prepare the grill for food.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Tailgater is relatively simple:
- Grill Grates: The porcelain-coated grates should be brushed clean after each use and occasionally removed for deeper cleaning.
- Grease Drip Tray: The drip tray should be either lined with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup) or cleaned after every few uses to prevent grease buildup and potential flare-ups.
- Fire Pot: The fire pot should be vacuumed out every 3-5 uses to remove ash buildup, which can affect airflow and temperature control.
- Pellet Hopper: Unused pellets should be removed if the grill will be unused for extended periods, as they can absorb moisture and swell, potentially jamming the auger.
With proper maintenance, owners report that the Tailgater provides years of reliable service, though some parts (particularly the controller and auger motor) may eventually need replacement after extensive use.
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Traeger Tailgater Accessories and Enhancements
Several accessories can enhance the Traeger Tailgater experience:
Traeger Tailgater Cover
A dedicated cover is essential for protecting the grill from the elements when not in use. The official Traeger Tailgater cover is custom-fitted to the grill’s dimensions and provides weather resistance to extend the lifespan of the unit.
Traeger Tailgater Insulation Blanket
For those cooking in colder conditions, the insulation blanket helps the Tailgater maintain more consistent temperatures while reducing pellet consumption. This accessory is particularly valuable for winter cooking or in windy environments.
Folding Front Shelf
While not included with the base unit, a folding front shelf provides valuable prep space, addressing one of the common criticisms of the Tailgater – its limited work surface.
Traeger Tailgater Controller Upgrades
Some enthusiasts upgrade the standard controller to aftermarket options that provide more precise temperature control or additional features. However, such modifications may void the warranty and should be approached with caution.
Pellet Storage Solutions
Since the Tailgater’s hopper holds only 8 pounds of pellets, having additional storage for longer cooking sessions is advisable. Traeger and third-party vendors offer pellet storage containers that keep pellets dry and accessible.
Comparing the Traeger Tailgater to Competitors
Traeger Tailgater 20 vs. Traeger Ranger
| Feature | Traeger Ranger | Traeger Tailgater |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Compact tabletop model | Full-sized portable model |
| Cooking Space | 176 square inches | 300 square inches |
| Best Suited For | 1-2 people | 3-4 people (family-sized meals) |
| Included Accessories | Cast iron griddle | No additional accessories included |
| Portability | Lightweight and designed for tabletop use | Portable with folding legs |
| Weight | Approx. 60 lbs | Approx. 68 lbs |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F | 180°F to 450°F |
| Fuel Capacity | Holds up to 8 lbs of pellets | Holds up to 12 lbs of pellets |
| Additional Features | Built-in meat probe, digital controller | Digital Arc controller with meat probe |
| Ideal Cooking Styles | Grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting | Grilling, smoking, roasting |
| Visor Cooking | Integrated grill with cast iron griddle for versatile cooking | Standard grilling capabilities |
| Price Point | Similar range ($300-$400 approx.) | Similar range ($300-$400 approx.) |
| Accessories | Optional accessories available (shelf, additional griddles) | Optional accessories available (shelf, cover) |
Traeger Tailgater 20 vs. Pro Series 22
| Feature | Pro Series 22 | Tailgater |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Space | 572 square inches | Smaller, exact dimensions vary |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds | Smaller capacity |
| WiFi Connectivity | Yes (in newer models) | No |
| Construction | More robust | Lighter, less durable |
| Portability | Less portable | Highly portable |
| Price Range | $200 - $300 more than Tailgater | Generally lower price |
| Best Use Case | Best for stationary use | Ideal for transport and tailgating |
| Value Proposition | Better value for performance | Convenient for those who travel |
Traeger Tailgater vs. Traeger Junior
| Feature | Traeger Junior | Traeger Tailgater |
|---|---|---|
| Model Age | Older model | Newer model |
| Cooking Space | Similar to Tailgater | Similar to Junior |
| Portability | Fixed legs (not foldable) | Foldable legs for enhanced portability |
| Temperature Control | Older controller, less precise | Newer controller, more precise |
| Value | Generally less value | Represents better value for most buyers |
| Market Availability | Often available and used at discounts | Generally newer, retail priced |
Traeger Tailgater 20 vs. Recteq 340
| Feature | Recteq 340 | Tailgater |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Space | 340 square inches | 300 square inches |
| Hopper Capacity | 20 pounds | 8 pounds |
| Price Point | Higher than Tailgater | Lower than Recteq 340 |
| Temperature Control | More precise | Less precise |
| Construction Quality | Superior construction | Good, but less robust |
| Portability | Compact size, no foldable legs | Foldable legs for easy transport |
| Weight | Heavier than Tailgater | Lighter and easier to carry |
| Fuel Type | Wood pellets | Wood pellets |
| Additional Features | Wi-Fi connectivity | Basic controls |
Traeger Tailgater vs. Pit Boss Tailgater
| Feature | Pit Boss Tailgater | Traeger Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower price point | Higher price point |
| Cooking Space | Similar cooking space | Similar cooking space |
| Direct-Flame Cooking | Yes, it includes a flame broiler | No, does not include a flame broiler |
| Temperature Control | Moderate temperature control | Generally better temperature control |
| Build Quality | Good build quality | Generally superior build quality |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly | User-friendly |
| Budget Considerations | Ideal for budget-conscious buyers | May require a larger investment |
| Priority Features | Great for direct-flame searing | Stronger temperature management |
Traeger Tailgater vs. Grilla Chimp
| Feature | Grilla Chimp | Tailgater |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Quality | Premium | Standard |
| Cooking Space | Similar to Tailgater | Similar to Grilla Chimp |
| Pellet Hopper Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Controller Modes | Dual modes for precise temperatures or enhanced smoke | Standard controller |
| Temperature Control | Excellent | Good |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Portability | Reduced portability | Easy to transport |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Overall Quality | Higher quality | Good quality |
Who Should Buy the Traeger Tailgater 20?
The Traeger Tailgater 20 is ideally suited for:
- Space-Conscious Cooks: Those with limited patio or balcony space who still want the wood-fired cooking experience.
- Mobile Lifestyle Enthusiasts: RV owners, tailgaters, and campers who want to bring wood-fired cooking on their adventures.
- Small Families: The 300-square-inch cooking surface is perfect for preparing meals for 2-4 people.
- Entry-Level Pellet Grill Users: Those new to pellet grilling who want to try the technology without investing in a full-sized unit.
- Apartment Dwellers: The compact footprint makes it suitable for apartment balconies where space is at a premium.
The Tailgater may not be the best choice for:
- Large Group Cooking: Those who regularly cook for large gatherings will find the cooking surface limiting.
- Precision Smoking Enthusiasts: Users seeking extremely precise temperature control might be frustrated by the fluctuations.
- High-Heat Searing Fans: If achieving steakhouse-quality sears is a priority, the 450°F maximum temperature will be limiting.
Understanding Traeger Tailgater Dimensions and Specifications
When considering the Traeger Tailgater, understanding its exact dimensions is crucial for determining whether it will fit in your intended space or vehicle. The assembled dimensions are 37 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 36 inches high.
When folded, the legs tuck underneath the barrel, significantly reducing the height profile to approximately 20 inches. The total weight of 60-62 pounds means it’s manageable for loading into a vehicle with two people but may be challenging for a single person to maneuver.
The 300 square inches of cooking space translates to approximately:
- 12 hamburger patties
- 3 racks of ribs
- 2 whole chickens
- 1 medium pork shoulder
- 1 small brisket (flat portion)
For context, Traeger’s full-sized grills offer cooking surfaces ranging from 572 to over 1,000 square inches, making the Tailgater best suited for small to medium-sized gatherings rather than large parties.
In terms of pellet consumption, users report that the Tailgater typically burns 1-2 pounds of pellets per hour, depending on temperature settings and ambient conditions. At lower smoking temperatures (180-225°F), the 8-pound hopper provides 4-7 hours of cooking time before requiring a refill. At higher grilling temperatures (350-450°F), that duration drops to 2-4 hours.
With these specifications in mind, prospective buyers can better assess whether the Traeger Tailgater aligns with their specific cooking needs and space constraints.
Final Verdict: Is the Traeger Tailgater 20 Worth It?
After thorough testing and consideration of feedback from multiple sources, the Traeger Tailgater 20 emerges as a compelling option in the portable pellet grill market. This compact cooker effectively delivers the signature wood-fired flavor that has built Traeger’s reputation, all in a package designed with mobility and space efficiency as primary considerations.
With a price tag of approximately $480, the Tailgater represents a significant investment compared to basic portable grills. However, its remarkable versatility and distinctive flavor profile provide value that conventional portable grills simply cannot match. The 6-in-1 functionality—allowing users to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ—transforms this compact unit into a complete outdoor cooking solution.
The Tailgater’s limitations—temperature fluctuations, modest hopper capacity, and somewhat cumbersome folding leg mechanism—should be understood as necessary compromises to achieve its portable form factor. When evaluated against other portable pellet grills rather than comparing them to full-sized stationary models, the Tailgater demonstrates impressive cooking capabilities and overall performance.
For first-time pellet grill buyers, the Tailgater provides an excellent entry point into Traeger’s ecosystem without requiring the space or investment of larger models. Its portability opens up cooking possibilities beyond the backyard, from tailgating events to camping trips and beyond.
FAQs
- What are the exact Traeger Tailgater dimensions and cooking capacity?
The Traeger Tailgater 20 measures 37 inches long by 18 inches wide by 36 inches high when fully assembled with legs extended. It offers 300 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to accommodate approximately 12 burgers, 3 racks of ribs, or 2 whole chickens at once. When folded for transport, the height reduces to approximately 20 inches, making it more manageable for storage and travel.
- How does the Traeger Tailgater 20 grill/smoker compare to the Traeger Pro Series 22?
The main differences between the Traeger Tailgater 20 and Pro Series 22 include cooking space (300 vs. 572 square inches), pellet hopper capacity (8 vs. 18 pounds), and portability features. The Pro Series 22 offers nearly twice the cooking area and pellet capacity but lacks the Tailgater’s folding legs for transportation. The Pro Series 22 typically costs $200-300 more but includes improved temperature stability and construction quality. For stationary use, the Pro Series 22 provides better value, while the Tailgater excels in portable applications.
- Do I need to purchase a Traeger Tailgater cover separately?
Yes, the Traeger Tailgater cover is sold separately and is highly recommended for protecting your investment from the elements. The official Traeger cover is custom-designed to fit the Tailgater’s specific dimensions, providing complete weather protection while allowing proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Third-party covers are available at lower price points, but may not offer the same precise fit or durability.
- What are the most essential Traeger Tailgater accessories for new owners?
The most valuable accessories for Traeger Tailgater owners include:
- Traeger Tailgater insulation blanket for cooking in cold weather
- Folding front shelf for additional preparation space
- Heavy-duty grill cover for protection when not in use
- Traeger inverter for powering the grill from a vehicle
- Pellet storage container for longer cooking sessions
- Additional temperature probes for monitoring multiple meats
- Grill mats to protect surfaces underneath the grill
- How does the Traeger Tailgater controller work, and can it be upgraded?
The Traeger Tailgater 20 comes with the Digital Arc Controller, which allows temperature adjustment in 5-degree increments from 180-450°F. It includes a built-in meat probe connection and dedicated buttons for power, temperature adjustment, and special settings like the keep warm mode. While aftermarket controller upgrades are available from third-party manufacturers, installing them may void your warranty. These upgraded controllers typically offer more precise temperature control and additional features but require some technical knowledge to install.
- Is the Traeger Tailgater insulation blanket necessary, and how does it improve performance?
While not essential, the Traeger Tailgater insulation blanket is highly beneficial in certain conditions. It helps the grill maintain more consistent temperatures when cooking in cold weather (below 45°F) or windy environments. The blanket reduces heat loss, which in turn:
- Improves temperature stability
- Decreases pellet consumption by up to 30%
- Reduces warm-up time
- Extends the effective cooking season into colder months
For summer use in mild conditions, the blanket isn’t necessary, but it’s a worthwhile investment for year-round cooking, especially in northern climates.
- How does the Traeger Tailgater 20 compare to the Traeger Ranger for portability?
When comparing the Traeger Tailgater 20 vs. the Traeger Ranger, the key differences are design approach and capacity. The Ranger is a tabletop model weighing 60 pounds with 176 square inches of cooking space, while the Tailgater is a free-standing unit with folding legs and 300 square inches of cooking area. The Ranger includes a cast iron griddle and latching lid for transport, making it better for true “grab-and-go” portability. The Tailgater offers 70% more cooking space but requires more setup time with its folding legs. Both have similar 8-pound hopper capacities and 450°F maximum temperatures.
- Where can I find a replacement Traeger Tailgater manual if mine is lost?
The Traeger Tailgater manual can be downloaded as a PDF from Traeger’s official website under the “Support” section. Simply search for “Tailgater 20” in their product documentation. Alternatively, third-party sites like ManualsLib also host copies. The manual contains important information about assembly, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance schedules. For quick reference guides and how-to videos, Traeger’s YouTube channel offers additional support resources that complement the written manual.
- How does the Traeger Tailgater compare to competitors like the Pitboss Tailgater and Grilla Chimp?
In comparing the Traeger Tailgater vs. Pitboss Tailgater, the Pitboss offers a lower price point and includes a flame broiler for direct-flame cooking, but generally has less precise temperature control. The Traeger Tailgater vs. Grilla Chimp comparison reveals the Chimp’s advantages in build quality and temperature stability, but at a higher price point and without the Traeger’s folding leg system. For those considering the Traeger Tailgater vs. Recteq 340, the Recteq provides larger cooking space and hopper capacity with better construction, but lacks portability features and costs significantly more. Your priority—whether price, features, portability, or size—should guide your selection among these alternatives.
- What replacement Traeger Tailgater parts are most commonly needed, and where can they be purchased?
The most frequently needed Traeger Tailgater parts include:
- RTD temperature probe (if temperature readings become inaccurate)
- Auger motor (typically after several years of use)
- Igniter rod (if the grill fails to light consistently)
- Controller unit (if buttons become unresponsive or display malfunctions)
- Drip bucket (which can rust over time)
- Grill grates (if damaged or heavily worn)
Conclusion
The Traeger Tailgater 20 occupies a sweet spot in the outdoor cooking market, balancing portability with performance while delivering authentic wood-fired flavor. For those with space constraints, active outdoor lifestyles, or who simply want to explore pellet grilling without committing to a full-sized unit, the Tailgater represents a solid investment.
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