Best Camping Generators – Review and Buyer’s Guide

October 5, 2023June 26, 2021 by Michael

After putting the Westinghouse IGen2200 through its paces on several camping trips, I can confidently say this is the best portable generator for camping. At just under 50 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to easily carry into the backcountry. Yet it has enough power to run all your essentials like a small fridge, lights, phones, and more.

On noise level, this thing is impressively quiet – around 52 dBA. That means you won’t disrupt other campers with its smooth-running engine. It sips fuel extremely efficiently too, allowing for a full 12 hours of run time on its 1.2-gallon tank. I was able to go two full nights without refueling. Westinghouse really nails fuel economy with their “Economy Mode” setting.

With 1800 rated watts, the IGen2200 packs more punch than most basic camping generators. However, it remains compact and portable. Plus it has useful features like two standard 120V outlets, dual fast-charge USB ports, and is even parallel-able for more power. The built-in wheel kit and folding handle made transport in and out of my truck simple.

After several seasons, the IGen2200 is still running strong. It fired up effortlessly, even in chilly fall weather. I never worry about reliability in remote areas thanks to Westinghouse’s excellent reputation for quality. At a very fair price point, this unit truly delivers off-grid power without compromises. The IGen2200 earns a spot in my camper for its combination of performance, value, and rugged dependability.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Westinghouse IGen2200 portable inverter generator proves the ideal choice for providing home backup power or reliable off-grid electricity while camping. It strikes an ideal balance of output, runtime, portability and value. After extensive personal testing, I can confidently recommend this unit.

In my quest for the finest camping generator, I consistently seek portable power solutions that can effectively cater to my on-the-go requirements. Following a thorough evaluation of the Jackery Portable Power Station, I can assert with confidence that it stands as a prominent candidate among the best options available.

Weighing in at just 13 pounds, this power station packs a 518-watt-hour lithium-ion battery into a compact size comparable to a basketball. It’s incredibly easy to carry around by the handle, making it perfect for camping, road trips, RVs, or emergency home backup. The battery management system optimizes each cell to extend the overall life cycle.

In terms of power output, 500 watts is enough to run small appliances like a mini cooler, fan, lamp, or even a TV. There’s one 110V AC outlet rated for 500W (1000W peak), plus USB-A ports and a carport to charge devices. You can pass-through charge the station while still powering gadgets, which is super convenient. The battery lasts a surprisingly long time before needing a recharge.

I’m thrilled that this model can be solar-powered. On sunny days, the built-in solar panel restores the battery bank using renewable energy. Even on cloudier days, the solar panel adds precious extra life.

The Jackery Portable Power Station feels so reliable and well-built. Safety features like short circuit and over-discharge protection give me peace of mind. The components are thoughtfully designed in a protective frame. After many weekends of powering my campsite, it still looks and performs like new.

Conclusion
For a mid-sized portable power station that can handle basic camping needs, the Jackery Portable is a top contender. The solar charging capability and robust design make it my go-to choice for off-grid adventures. If you need to power larger devices, consider a model with a higher wattage. But for a reliable camping companion, this Jackery Portable Power Station is tough to beat.

One of my favorites with absolute versatility, ease, and portability, making it a great alternative for outside usage. The fact that it uses propane or gasoline for operation makes it the absolute best for people who often find themselves camping. Additionally, it is quite powerful and can support a variety of electronics with minimal chances of any short circuits or sparks. For me, the ease it has to offer in terms of assembly, application, and setup makes it a great deal.

Talking about performance efficiency, it works on 3800 watts that are exceptional in power and can even run a mini-fridge and a number of electronics, adding to the versatility. Also, it comes with an intelligaug system that offers you all information about the voltage consumed, limits, battery life, and running time. Hence, it becomes extremely convenient for you to monitor all processes and make the most out of them. It is also important to mention that it starts easily with a toggle switch, adding to the ease.

Last but not least, this dual-fuel generator is made up of cold-start technology that is best known for its sturdy construction and durability. So, you will no longer find weather conditions (storms, rains, and so on) a problem or hindrance. My favorites specifically in this thing were the dual fuel option and the variety of outlets it includes. All in all, it is one of the best camping generators with sturdy construction, multi-functioning abilities, and overall life.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, this Champion Power 76533 is the most powerful camping generator that can facilitate you with versatility and ease. Speaking of camping, it is one of the best, considering its compact size, durable construction, and intelligauge system that helps you in monitoring the overall process to have an idea about what you are left with. Also, the cold start technology makes it exceptionally good for camping with no worries of harsh weather or storms.

Honda needs no introduction when it comes to reliable inverters and generators. First of all, this Honda inverter is one of the quietest and easiest machines out there that can absolutely facilitate you while camping. I really like this one because of its small packaging with all the quality features that you need for a trip from long life to power efficiency, and so on. Also, the fact that you can also get a cable to charge your sensitive electronics for a few dollars makes it remarkable.

Similarly, it is an upgraded version of Honda that runs on 1600 watts with 5.2 dB noise that can ideally last you for a longer period. It is equipped with an eco-throttle feature that makes it absolutely noiseless. I have been using this for a TV, water pump, mini-fridge, and an LCD monitor and haven’t noticed any warning for overloading. In case of exceeding the limit, this device shuts down, which makes it overall safe, to begin with, and adds to the peace of mind for users.

Finally, one of the highlights of this machine is that it offers great convenience and ease. For this purpose, the manufacturers have added an extended drain path that helps you in getting the oil directly in the pan rather than all over the inverter. Also, this model comes with brushless fans that facilitate improved ventilation and help it to work better. On a single charge, this Honda EU2200i can last you for 8 hours, which is comparatively better than its competitors in the same price range.

Conclusion

In the end, if you are looking for a decent, basic generator that can help you with durability and convenience, I would suggest you go for this Honda EU2200i. I really like this product because of its decent battery life, better ventilation, and sturdy construction that makes it long-lasting. Also, it is absolutely suitable for campers who want convenience and standard capacity to go with. Finally, the fact that it comes with an affordable price range gives it an edge over others.

Here comes another one of my favorite generators with innovative solar technology, contributing to the convenience. Additionally, it is one of the few models that offer high-altitude usage, making it even more appropriate for camping. I also found it easier to operate as it includes a variety of replacement tools. It is a multi-purpose inverter that can be used at construction sites, compounds, and for camping ideally.

Additionally, the fact that this WEN 56200i model works only on 1600 watts makes it power efficient and saves you from over-burdening electricity bills. Also, it is the quietest generator out there that only provides 51 dBA overall, making it my utmost choice for camping, let alone daily usage. However, oiling this and starting it for the first time can be a struggle for you. For oiling specifically, I have been using a neck funnel that has helped me make it less messy and more efficient.

Last but not least, when it comes to set up and assembly, I experienced no difficulty and was able to do the job pretty much on my own. Furthermore, it produces clean power that is highly appropriate for your appliances and prevents any potential damage to electronics. Thus, if you are looking for something safe and functional that won’t present you with an issue of short circuit, this Wen is to go for.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, if you are looking for something that can help you with multi-purpose abilities and save power as well, this 56200i WEN generator is a well-suited option. It is one of the best campground-approved generators with a reasonable price, clean power, easy setup, and safety. I highly regard this model because it has helped me in camping as well as in my compound with less than usual costs. Furthermore, the fact that it is a solar generator that makes no noise adds value to it.

Firstly, Champion needs no introduction when it comes to generators. Likewise, this Champion 100692 is my absolute choice for portability and camping site as it only weighs 39 pounds with no noise at all. It runs on gasoline and has a decent capacity to be installed in either your RV or used on its own at camping.

Additionally, the fact that it starts on the first pull with great fuel efficiency makes it a great deal for me. I have been using this for quite some time and have found the battery highly reliable and didn’t notice any dangerous emissions, as is the case with these machines.

In addition to this, this model includes a 20-pound tank that facilitated me best while I had set up this in my RV. I also really liked the dial selector that helped me in switching between the fuel options (gas or propane). It lasted me for about 10-11 hours with a mini-fridge, charging, and small appliances such as ceiling fans and so on. It further comes with a separate kit to extend the service of this one, but I haven’t tried it so far. All being said, it is absolutely phenomenal in serving you with the best fuel efficiency and overall power output.

Likewise, like other Champions models, this one is equipped with LED indicator lights that monitor everything from the fuel level, overload, battery life, and so on. I also didn’t find changing the oil as it comes with a funnel; however, it was a bit messy initially.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that this one offers you clean and stable power that is suitable for sensitive electronics with little distortion. On the whole, having 1700 running watts with 53 dBA noise and a long battery life (approximately 11 hours) makes it the best camping generator on the market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this propane generator from Champion is one of my favorites, with quality construction, ease, and stable power. I highly regard this model because it comes with clean power and a long battery life of 11 hours that accommodates you in the best manner. Also, the fact that it comes with an LED indicator light and no noise at all makes it extremely liked across the market. Finally, it is also noteworthy that this one is affordable and, coming from Champion, adds value to it.

To begin with, I am extremely pleased to introduce this Wen 56380i because of its performance-oriented design and affordable price range. It has been a great alternative to support my RV and has facilitated me in the best manner with stable energy and ease alike. It also includes wheels and handles that make it highly portable and easy to transport.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that it has quite a large battery life despite using it continuously, making it long-lasting.

Speaking of the looks, it comes with a modern, contemporary-looking design with sturdy construction that makes it durable and long-lasting. The model further includes a display LED bar that shows all the information about fuel consumption, power, and overall battery life. To start this one, you will notice no problem as it is electrically operated by using the dialing option. Also, the unit makes only 57 dBA noise which is minimal and keeps you relaxed throughout the camping process.

In the end, this quiet camper generator is equipped with a single tank that has a 2.2 gallon capacity which makes it an accommodating one. I have been using it for a long time and have found a single tank to last for approximately 9 hours with a 50% load, including a mini-fridge and an AC placed in an RV.

Another feature that makes it cost-effective is its Eco Mode which helps you save power and utilize it for the better. All being said, I found the oil change process a little tricky and messy; however, after practicing, it became easier with time.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, this Wen 56380i is another quality product that helps you throughout with versatility, quality construction, portability, and efficiency. It comes with an LED display and a capable tank that accommodates you with convenience and long battery life. The fact that it is an affordable model with all the correct ingredients makes me include this one in my list. Finally, it offers clean power and takes the load well, which makes it a quality and cost-effective product.

Likewise, buying this Generac 76711 was the best decision I have taken as it has a lot to offer. It comes with everything from display control to versatility, quality construction, and power efficiency that can serve you in the best manner. Talking about camping, it can take loads for quite some time and includes portable lights in case of emergencies that help you throughout your trip. Additionally, a fun fact is the size of a bulky suitcase makes it relatively easy to transport and store.

Moreover, for the most part, it makes minimal noise and works well without being loud, making your campsite peaceful and calm. For convenience, the manufacturers have added a dial option that helps you start the machine without the struggle of pulling it every time. Additionally, it includes an Eco Mode that helps you save money as it requires less than usual power and cuts additional costs from the bills. All being said, you will face problems while oiling this Generac 76711.

Last but not least, speaking of the lifespan, this Generac is my go-to whenever there is some emergency and I am out of fuel. The single tank in this model demands at most 5 gallons as it has a great capacity to serve you with less than usual fuel (can last 2 gallons for 3 ½ days ideally). You are also getting a handle and plastic grip that helps you in the transport facility. Finally, I absolutely love the LED indicators that are set there to monitor the overall fuel efficiency and limits, making the process even more efficient and serviceable.

Conclusion

In the end, if you are looking for something that can help you throughout with clean energy, ease, and overall fuel efficiency, this one’s to go for. I really like this model because it comes with true technology that produces clean and stable electricity with little distortion, making it perfect for my essentials such as laptops and mobile phones. It is further best known for its economy mode and LED indicators that make it cost-effective and monitor the whole process easier.

Goal Zero has gained a good reputation when it comes to safety, versatility, and performance efficiency. Here, this Yeti 150 is no different and possesses everything from sturdy construction to clean power and convenience that serves you in the best manner. Likewise, for campers whose primary concern lies with portability, I have good news for you, as manufacturers have made this one extremely lightweight without undermining the durability or battery life.

Additionally, on one charge, it can support C-Pap and an AC plug-in for two nights, which is absolutely remarkable, considering its small battery. Also, to further extend the time to three nights, you can use a DC adapter like me. Despite being highly efficient in terms of life, it is worth mentioning that this device uses a Lead-acid that is safe and decently lightweight to begin with. Overall, I am pleasantly surprised and satisfied when it comes to safety and usage.

Lastly, it also comes with a notable number of connectivity options and Goal Zero portable lights. Therefore, whenever there is some issue, you can charge these lights quickly to use for emergencies. Finally, talking about the assembly and setup, I experienced no difficulty at all, and oiling was relatively easier than usual, which makes it highly convenient. All being said, it is reasonably priced, considering the features and convenience it has to offer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, here comes this 150 from Goal Zero with great ease, power efficiency, versatility, and long life. I absolutely love this one as it comes with sturdy construction, has a quality battery, and offers an easy setup to start with. It is further best known for its LCD display and portable Zero Goal bulbs that accommodate you best in case of emergencies. Finally, the fact that you’re getting all these features in a reasonable price range gives it an edge over others.

Here comes another good camping generator with good portability and a compact design. Weighing at 1 pound, the generator has maximum portability and easy transportation. Briggs & Stratton P2400 is another inverter technology generator with a robust design, higher wattage, and parallel compatibility.

Furthermore, this generator is in high demand because of its large fuel capacity. It features a 1-gallon fuel tank that can run continuously on a 25% load. Moreover, it has USB ports for charging multiple electronics like mobile, tablets, and laptops. This quietest RV generator runs at 52 dB, thus a bearable sound that is even less than a normal conversation sound of human beings. With that, it has 4 120 v outlets, 2 outlets for USB, and one 120 v 140 v locking outlet.

Conclusion

If you want something with multiple power outlet options and a big fuel tank for fewer refill trips, trust the generator by Briggs. We highly recommend it for long hours and multiple device usage. The quiet power technology and easy carry design make this camping generator high in demand. The only downside of the generator is its high noise, which contradicts the manufacturer’s claim of the quietest generator.

Last but not least, the Goal Zero Yeti 500X tent camping generator needs no introduction. It is a solar inverter generator that is the absolute best for you if you want something that is environmentally friendly and yet serves you well with all the correct features. Thus, be it power efficiency, versatility, or user-friendly operations, this Goal Zero package has it all. Furthermore, I would also recommend this one if you want a device that can take a notable load.

Similarly, this is one of the few pieces of equipment that has really surprised me for the better because of its well-engineered design and battery. The manufacturers have used Lithium-ion batteries that are lightweight and offer great safety. Thereby, the small battery package and efficient storage capacity make it a great deal for campers who need nothing more than portability. Additionally, this solar generator produces clean power with less than usual distortion, making it a safe choice for sensitive electronics.

In the end, for me, the design was the deal-breaker as it is made up of aluminum with round edges and a quality grip that makes it practical and long-lasting. I have been using it for quite some time for my LCD monitor, water pump, TV, and refrigerator, and the results were remarkable. Also, it started on the first pull, and oiling was relatively easy which adds to the convenience. Finally, the brushless fans make it highly power-efficient and cut unnecessary costs from the bills.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, this Goal Zero 500X is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quality solar camping generator. I highly appreciate this product because of its quality/environmentally friendly construction, safe Lithium battery, and easy oiling/ setup process. Additionally, it is known for its clean power generation, which makes it a great deal for sensitive electronics and prevents potential chances of spark or short circuits.

Important Considerations Before Buying The Best Camping Generator – Buyer’s Guide

A quality generator is one that is equipped with all the correct energy sources that help you in supporting all your essential devices, keeping you facilitated. These devices are must-haves if you are a camper who wants constant assistance while you are on the go (for RVs and tents). Here, I have included some fundamentals that I have learned through different experiences of buying the camping generator. I hope you will find this helpful as a guide.

What are the Portable Camping Generators?

A portable or compact-sized generator is a small or mobile energy source that produces power to run your devices/ electronics on it. You can use these to charge sensitive electronics or to run appliances such as laptops, TVs, mobile phones, and so on.

Hence, you can ideally use these devices for campsites or trips where you do not have other energy sources. Alternatively, you can also use these devices on RVs that have the facility of an air conditioner and fridge (for this, you will require more power).

Size Matters the Most

Portability is the foremost requirement if you are buying a generator for camping trips. Hence, if you own a large RV that has an air conditioner and a mini-fridge, you would need a medium-sized air conditioner having more than usual power. You can also install these machines to improve the overall sound insulation in an enclosed material so you won’t be bothered by unnecessary noise.

Additionally, if you are going for these medium ones, try to look for something that comes with a handle for easy transport and storage facility.

Apart from this, campsites usually do not require much power and space. Thus, you can get a compact-size generator with decent capacity that can last you for two or three days, ideally. I would suggest you go for something that has at least 2000 W to support sensitive and necessary electronics. Also, try to get as many outlets as you can because that can help you in the long run.

Further, if your things produce clean power with little distortion, you are absolutely in the right place. Lastly, in the case of small-sized generators, you won’t feel the need to insulate them as they are the quietest across the market and fuel-efficient, making them a great deal overall.

Power Requirements

While buying a compact-size camping generator for yourself, you will have to set the power demands, as any compromise on this will make it of little to no value. Hence, small inverter generators are usually a preferred choice of campers that are able to produce between 1500-2000 W to support your small devices such as TVs, Laptops, fans, mini-fridges, and so on.

Additionally, almost all of these devices provide you power without any distortion, which makes it a quality choice for sensitive electronics, and you can charge essentials on these ideally.

However, at the same time, if you are using your generator for refrigerators or ACs, you would need something that has quality surge power or running watts. This power is the one that these electronics constantly require while they are running. Although this is needed for a short period of time, it is highly significant to have in your machine. Hence, many conventional generators come with peak or starting watts ratings that can facilitate you effectively in this scenario.

How Long Do These Generators Last?

Likewise, it is important to consider the overall service life while buying the best camping generator for you. First of all, you must understand that the life of a generator varies from model to model. Most of the models out there have a life expectancy between 1000 and 2000 hours that can last 10 to 20 years. In the case of solar-powered generators, you will be provided with a number of battery cycles, such as 500 battery cycles and so on, that serves you well.

Likewise, when it comes to gas and propane generators, you can expect them to last 5-10 hours on one tank of fuel. In most of these, a single tank lies between 1 and 3 gallons. Hence, it is also important to consider the overall size of the model you are going for. All being said, you will find a decent life span of both these types that can charge dozens of smart appliances and can run electronics with medium models.

How Much Noise Your Generator Makes, Can You Make It Quiet?

Some generators present in the market can be really annoying with their loud noise, and considering you are on a camping trip, these have a great potential to upset you throughout. The sound is measured through decibels or dBA. Hence, understand it this way: the average value of two people conversing is approximately 60 dBA. Thus, if you are going for a small-size generator, I am pleased to inform you that you can even get something with less than this value.

However, in the case of medium to large ones that you want for your RVs, you will have to make a compromise there. Yet, you can make these quieter than usual by doing some DIYs.

There are a variety of methods by which you can make your portable device even quieter;

• You can ideally build an enclosed sound insulation thing using plywood or MDF. However, make sure that your device is getting suitable ventilation and that all the gases can escape ideally from there. Also, keep this enclosure large for the purpose of your generator not touching the walls of it.
• If you are not someone who feels comfortable doing DIYs, I would suggest you buy one from the market. They are built to offer you improved sound quality and better protection, adding to the overall safety. Additionally, these are relatively easier to assemble and disassemble.

Types of Generators

When buying the best camping generator, the biggest decision you make is probably which type to buy (gas or solar). Thus, here is a brief account of how they work in the real world.

• Gas and Propane Generators

These types of generators run on conventional mechanisms and include small-sized motors that convert the energy from fossil fuels to electricity. The advantage of using these is that you can run them at any time, be it night or day, as it depends on the availability of the fuel. Thus, as long as you have fuel, you are set to go.

If we compare both, gas ones are relatively cheaper than propane, but you can not find a better alternative than solar generators in terms of cost-efficiency. Another thing you must consider with these generators is the noise that can be overwhelming, especially at night time.

• Solar Generators

On the contrary, solar generators are more of the contemporary alternatives that are easy to operate and have a lot to offer. These machines use the sun’s energy to produce electricity and possess the capacity to support mini-refrigerators and TVs for quite some time. In addition, these are eco-friendly, and you won’t find any problem with dangerous emissions; however, it can be a great pain in the cloudy and rainy season.

Similarly, they are relatively noiseless or include minimal noise that presents no issue. The only problem you will face is the absence of running watts that don’t have the capacity to support ACs and similar electronics.

Fuel Efficiency

Here comes another key consideration which is fuel efficiency. As all generators demand some kind of fuel, it is important to know how it works and whether you are being benefited by the generator or not. When it comes to gas and propane generators, you will find that determining fuel efficiency in these is relatively easy. For this purpose, you just have to divide the number of gallons of fuel by the running hours. So, by doing this, you can have an idea of which one is more efficient that will eventually ensure better expense management and will be environmentally friendly.

In contrast to that, determining the fuel efficiency of solar generators can be a bit tricky. Here, you will have to weigh the total runtime of your specific model and the time it takes to charge that thing. Also, you will find that each model has its own charging time that is according to the capacity of solar panels and the overall weather conditions of that area.

Hence, finally, to find the efficiency, you will divide the total run time by the number of devices charged on a single battery cycle. Therefore, on the basis of your results, you can ideally determine which one to go for.

Using a Generator on a Campsite

Portable generators can be a great way to spend your camping with family without bothering about unnecessary issues. However, these can be really disturbing for neighbor campers who are there to enjoy the serenity of the site and want to spend some peacetime in isolation. Thereby, here are some tips that can help you along the way;

• Always keep a portable battery charger when the generator is still running.
• Abide by the camping rules. These rules often state no machinery above 60 dBA is allowed on the site.
• Avoid keeping your generator in great proximity to your neighbor’s tent or RV.

Finally, having everything ensured, enjoy a peaceful time with your family. On the basis of all these essential features and individual preferences, you can choose rationally which one to buy across the market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

In essence, these best camping generators are a must-have in terms of versatility, convenience, and power efficiency. Most of these machines are equipped with sturdy construction, LED display, fuel efficiency, and suitable running power that helps you throughout. Additionally, if you are a camper who is always in constant need of charging your devices while you are in tents or want to support some electronics in an RV while you are on the go, I would highly suggest you go for these ones.

Finally, if you are looking for recommendations, here are my favorites;

• Champion 100692 Power Equipment Generator is one of the best with power efficiency, LED display, clean power, and quality construction.
• Jackery Power Station Solar Generator is famous for its load capacity, easy oil-changing process, and overall power efficiency.
• Goal Zero Yeti 500X Solar Generator is known for its safety, easy setup, and environmentally friendly construction.