6 Best Portable Generators For Camping And RVs

The best portable generators for camping and RVs are essential for powering your essential outdoor electronics. You can see your top options here.

A Quick Overview

Camping and other outdoor activities often require you to be off the grid. This means that you have to leave the comforts of your home--and that includes your electronics, gadgets, and appliances. 

Now, this idea seems not bad. But over the years, people have gradually incorporated "convenience" into the aspect of camping. That's why we have glamping tents in the first place. At the same time, campers today tend to bring equipment that requires electricity to run, such as small refrigerators. Meanwhile, RV campers require a consistent power source to keep their important appliances running. 

When buying a portable generator, it is crucial that you check its capacity and compare it to the actual requirements of your items. At the same time, make sure that it has protective features that would enable it to operate safely throughout your trip. 

Before we discuss the nitty-gritty of choosing a portable generator, let us first check some of the top options for this particular item. 

Best Portable Generators For Camping And RVs: A Rundown

	Power Source	Starting Watts	Running Watts	Where to Buy
WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator	Gasoline	2,350 watts	1,900 watts	Amazon
Champion Power Equipment 200961 Portable Inverter Generator	Gasoline and Propane	2,500 watts (gasoline) 2500 watts(propane)	1,850 watts (gasoline) 1,665 watts(propane)	Amazon
Generac 7117 GP2200I W 50St Inverter Generator	Gasoline	2,200 watts	1,700 watts	Amazon
DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator	Gasoline	4,400 watts	3,300 watts	Amazon
Westinghouse 2200W Portable Inverter Generator	Gasoline	2,200 watts	1,800 watts	Amazon
GENMAX 3200 Watts Portable Inverter Generator	Gasoline	3,300 watts	2,800 watts	Amazon

Best Portable Camping And RV Generators 

1. WEN 56235i Portable Inverter Generator - Editor's Pick

WEN 56235i Portable Inverter Generator Review

Despite not being the most powerful portable generator on this list, we love the WEN 56235i because of its innate portability. It remains lightweight at 39 pounds. Furthermore, it is compact, as well, making its transport and storage fairly easy. 

It is also safe to use with your smartphones, tablets, laptops, and sensitive electronics. After all, it has low harmonic distortion. Specifically, it is 1.2 percent when full load. 

Moreover, it has a plethora of receptacles, such as two 120-volt receptacles and two 5-volt USB ports. It also has a fuel-saver mechanism, thanks to its eco-mode switch. It will intuitively optimize its engine to regulate its fuel use while operating. 

It is a silent generator, as well. The 79cc engine has been rated to have a noise level of 51 decibels only at quarter load. So even during the night, you will be able to use this generator, and other campers won't complain about it. 

2. Champion Power Equipment 200961 Portable Inverter Generator

Champion Power Equipment 200961 Portable Inverter Generator Review

The Champion 200691 is a remarkable portable generator, as it can be operated using either gasoline or propane. So depending on which of these two fuel sources are available, you would still be able to use the machine. 

It is also available in different capacities, with this one being the 2,500-watt model. Thanks to its reliable and safe systems, it is an ideal choice for tailgating, camping, and RVing. For example, it has an intuitive recoil start, and its Cold Start Technology lets it operate in cold conditions. 

Two 120-volt outlets and two 2.1A USB ports are integrated into this generator. Its noise level is minimal, as well. It is rated at 53 decibels, which is virtually similar to the noise generated by dishwashers. 

Notably, you can connect this inverter generator to another similar unit, allowing it to generate 30 amps of power. But you need to purchase its optional parallel kit to do this. 

3. Generac 7117 GP2200I W 50St Inverter Generator

Generac 7117 GP2200I W 50St Inverter Generator Review

Generac is a reputable brand of portable generators. Its Generac 7117 GP2200I is among its units that are suitable for camping and outdoor use. It is relatively compact and lightweight, so it is not that difficult to carry to your campsite. It also includes a built-in handle for easier transport. 

With its TruePower Technology, this generator is touted to provide stable, clean power. It is a useful feature for powering sensitive appliances, tools, and electronics. 

It comes with a 1.2-gallon fuel tank, as well, allowing it to operate for roughly 11 hours under 25 percent load. This inverter generator has a simple operation. Start-up procedures can be done by simply twisting a knob. 

We also like its Economy Mode, which regulates its fuel use while reducing its noise. Typically, the noise level of this generator ranges from 60 to 70 decibels. Meanwhile, there are LED indicators integrated into this device to tell important statuses such as power, overload, and low oil. 

4. DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

Do you want something powerful and long-lasting? Then I recommend that you check out the DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator. This one has a peak power that is twice higher than other inverter generators. It is capable of handling heavy loads--from small air conditioners to high-amperage power tools. 

It has a powerful engine, as well. Packed with the DuroStar 208cc, 4-stroke OHV engine, the generator is capable of powering different tools, as well. And surprisingly enough, this generator isn't that noisy. 

At 25 percent load, the generator can last for more than a day, and that's a pleasant feature needed for extended camping trips. Meanwhile, it has a power panel that includes a number of outlets compatible with your various camping equipment. 

This rugged generator can withstand the elements. None of its components are shabby; they are also protected from internal flaws, so expect that this DuroStar generator can last long in service. 

5. Westinghouse 2200W Portable Inverter Generator

Westinghouse 2200W Portable Inverter Generator Review

This Westinghouse Portable Generator is a reliable power source for camping and outdoor activities. It has a lightweight design--sitting at only 47.4 pounds--and offers a single-handle design on its top for easy transport. 

The peak wattage of this inverter is 2,200 watts, which is excellent given that its total harmonic distortion is just less than 3 percent. This means that this generator is safe to use for sensitive electronics, such as your phone. 

Furthermore, these portable generators operate smoothly and offer unmatched fuel efficiency. Its noise output sits at 52 decibels on average. At 25 percent load, the generator can operate for 12 hours straight. Interestingly enough, it is equipped with a 1.2-gallon tank, proving that it is indeed fuel efficient. 

Notably, you can also combine this generator with the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT, iGen1200, and iGen2200. Doing this would improve the available amperage and wattage for your devices. 

6. GENMAX 3200 Watts Portable Inverter Generator

GENMAX 3200 Watts Portable Inverter Generator Review

It's impressive that the GENMAX 3200 Watts is a highly-rated option for a portable generator. After all, it deserves such recognition. This machine is operated by a high-speed, 5.2-horsepower, 145cc gasoline-powered engine. It is capable of cranking 3,200 watts of peak power and 2,800 watts of running power. 

So aside from camping, you can also use this generator in other applications, such as at job sites and in emergencies. With its fully enclosed construction, the inverter could minimize its noise level. It is rated at 62 decibels when operating at 25 percent load. 

Furthermore, this generator has low harmonic distortion, which, in turn, should safely power sensitive electronics and appliances. At a weight of 43.7 pounds, this generator is touted as one of the lightest 3,000-watt inverter generators on the market today. 

It also has intuitive controls and indicators so that you can operate it with maximum efficiency. It has multiple outlets, as well, including USB ports. 

How To Choose The Best Portable Generator For Camping And RVing

It's undeniable that generators already play a part in camping and outdoor leisure. Whether you are a fan of RV camping or simply camping, these portable generators could actually help your outdoor activities become more convenient. These generators would be able to keep important camping appliances running whenever you need them. 

Choosing the right portable generator might appear as a daunting process. But in reality, it is just the process of matching your needs and the actual specifications of the generator.

Determining The Right Generator Size

Size in generators doesn't refer to their physical dimensions. It actually refers to their wattage--specifically their running and starting watts (also known as peak power and rated power). 

Running watts, as its name suggests, are the wattage needed to continuously operate a particular appliance. Meanwhile, starting watts are the "extra" wattage needed to start motor-drive appliances and equipment, such as refrigerators, for two to three seconds. 

Essentially, starting watts also refer to the maximum wattage that the generator can produce. 

So how would I know the right wattage for my portable generator? Just follow the simple guide below. 

1. Identify the items that you need during the trip. Feel free to include whatever you think is necessary. 
2. Next, check the starting and running watts requirement for each of these items. The product information or manual of these things would help you on this matter. 
3. Get the total running watts of all the items you listed. Once you get the number, find a generator that can provide the same or more running watts. For instance, if your total is 3,000 watts, then get a generator that has a rated wattage of 3,000 watts or more. 
4. For the starting watts, identify the item that requires the biggest extra starting watts. Next, add this number to the total running watts. The resulting number will tell you the ideal starting watts that a generator should possess. 

Specifications Of A Portable Generator For Camping

Most of the portable generators we listed are actually forms of recreational inverters. They are the cheapest among all types of back-up generators out there. 

They tend to cost between $300 to $1,200, depending on the brand, model, and capacity. Moreover, they are also the lightest, having an average weight of 70 pounds or less. 

Needless to say, these generators don't require installation, so you can transport them whenever or wherever you want, especially if you have trucks, RVs, or similar vehicles. 

These generators are typically quiet, too. In the products listed here, the highest decibel rating is about 70 decibels. So compared to other generators, they indeed operate silently. The quiet operation of these portable generators is due to their smaller engines and enclosed construction that muffles the noise and vibration.

They won't be called portable generators if they are difficult to transport. Go for those units that have handles on them. 

What's The Ideal Runtime

Most of the time, manufacturers rate the runtime of their generators based on a 25-percent load. That's the lowest setting possible for these generators to power equipment. Technically speaking, most of the runtime you see is measured on this specification. 

Of course, if you operate the generator on its 50 percent load or maximum load, its runtime would drastically be reduced. For example, a particular generator may have an 18-hour runtime on a 25 percent load and 8 hours when set at 50 percent. 

Furthermore, the runtime of the generator may also depend on its fuel efficiency. Some models that we have listed here have economy modes that further optimize the fuel consumption of the generator so that it can run for even up to a day or more. 

For camping and outdoor purposes, we recommend that you bring extra gallons of fuel, especially if you are looking to spend more time off the grid. 

With that in mind, you should also check the fuel capacity of these portable generators. Most of them have a 1-gallon or 1.2-gallon capacity. Stick to these units. 

Be Mindful Of The Outlets

Regardless of how a generator is, it won't be useful to you if it doesn't have the right outlets that you need. 

Not all generators have the same outlets or outlets arrangement. Hence, the key here is to ensure that you can find a unit that will let you plug your items and appliances. 

The typical outlets are 120-volt AC outlets and 12-volt DC outlets. Some units have two 120-volt outlets for AC and one for 12-volt DC. Of course, we are only taking this in the context of portable generators. After all, larger generators have high-voltage outlets, such as 240-volt outlets for AC. 

But these are not the only outlets that you need. Assuming that you have smartphones and other gadgets that you want to power, it is essential that the generator has USB ports, as well. 

What Is Total Harmonic Distortion, And Why It's Important For Portable Generators?

We don't have to be technical on this part. We will just try our best to explain what total harmonic distortion (THD) is. 

In a nutshell, total harmonic distortion refers to the voltage--specifically, the distortions on it. Most of the time, distortions happen because of the natural harmonics that occur within the signal. 

This particular aspect is mostly common in communications and audio systems, but they are also present in generators, as well. It is naturally occurring, but it would be best if it is on the most minimal level.

But why? 

Well, the higher the harmonic distortion, the more damage it could cause to your appliances. Sensitive items, such as laptops and smartphones, can't tolerate high levels of THD. As much as possible, the THD of a portable generator should be less than 3 percent. 

Do you want to learn more about THD? Then refer to this informative post. 

Is A Portable Generator Similar To Power Stations?

The short answer is no. 

By all means, portable generators are not the same as power stations. However, we often see or hear people interchange these terms carelessly. While their functions are technically the same (to provide power), their mechanism is not the same. 

Portable generators, or generators in general, create power by themselves. They have fuels, either in the form of propane or gasoline, that help them generate the power needed to operate devices. 

On the other hand, power stations are large power banks. They have batteries on them, specifically lithium-ion batteries. It is on the batteries where the power is being stored for future or emergency use. Basically, you need to charge these power stations first before you bring them to the campsite. 

Tips For Using Portable Generators

You could take the best portable generators for camping and RVing to the next level with the following tips:

Safety Precautions

• Gasoline is explosive and flammable. Hence, you need to exercise caution in handling it. Don't expose it to flames or a high-temperature environment. Make sure that its container is sealed properly and stored in secured places. 
• Make sure that you don't overfill the tank of the generator. Otherwise, there would be no room for the gas to expand. 
• Don't add fuel while the generator is running. 
• Don't smoke or create a campfire near the generator. 
• Start the generator first before plugging any equipment into it. 
• Don't overload the generator by plugging many items at the same time. 
• Use the correct power cords. If possible, use cords that are rated for outdoor use. 
• Never use the generator while it is raining or snowing. 
• Grounding is essential for generators; otherwise, you are at risk of electrocution.

Proper Placement

• If you are bringing your kids on the trip, make sure that they don't go near the generator. 
• The generator should have clearance on all of its sides by at least five feet. 
• Don't use the generator inside your RV or tent. 
• Place the generator on leveled surfaces and areas where it is protected from the elements. 
• Make sure that you disconnect its spark plug wire while you are transporting or setting up the generator. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the best portable generators can make your outdoor adventure convenient and safe. These generators can make a difference, especially if we are talking about convenience and comfort while you are on your RV or campsite. Again, let us remind you that you need to pick a generator that fits your actual requirements. In this way, you will be able to power your camping electronics and equipment properly.