Picking The Best Generator for Camping & RV

best camping generator

Camping is one of the most beautiful experiences, be it something that you do with your friends, your family, or even just by yourself. The experience of camping is something that will stay with you for life, which is why it is something that so many people engage in.

If you are thinking of going on a camping trip, either by yourself or with company, it is always important to stay well prepared and have everything that you might need. A generator is something that you should aim to get if you want to have a comfortable experience.

We are going to elaborate on the best camping generators as well as the facets that one must take into account when buying this kind of a product. These are some of the best generators that are currently on the market.

Our List of Top 6 Camping & RV Generators

#ImageGeneratorsPrice
#1Honda EU3000iSHonda EU3000iS
(Best Camping & RV Generator)
$$$$
#2Yamaha EF2000iSv2Yamaha EF2000iSv2
(Best Quietest Generator)
$$$
#3Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready GeneratorChampion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator$$$
#4GENERAC 7117 GP2200IGENERAC 7117 GP2200I$$
#5Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000$$$
#6WEN 56200iWEN 56200i$

Honda EU3000iS (Best Camping & RV Generator)

The Honda EU3000iS is a choice for those who want a generator that not only works for their RV, but for a variety of different appliances as well. It is known for being a multifunctional generator that can take care of many energy needs, all with one single product.

The generator can be used for a number of things including furnaces, fridges, TVs, microwaves or just about anything else. Just like the previous option, this generator is also designed to have an incredibly quiet operation which means that it produces very little sound as compared to traditional kinds of generators that people tend to go in for.

It operates between 49 to 58 decibels which can prove to be the best generator for camping and RVs because of the quiet emissions, coupled with its multi-functionality features.

The Honda EU3000iS is considered to be one of the more fuel-efficient options on the market and is something that can save you an incredible amount of money. The reason the product has been able to reach this energy efficient status is because of the eco-throttle feature that is embedded in the fuel tank. This allows the generator to run for around seven to twenty hours depending on the total load and the devices that it is powering up.

The generator is specially protected by oil alert where it will shut down the generator when it detects a low oil amount in the tank.

Pros
  • Low Sound Emissions
  • Multi-Functional
Cons
  • Heavy In Weight

Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (Best Quietest Generator)

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 currently stands as one of the most popular options for those who are on the lookout for a good RV generator that can take care of all of their camping needs. The generator is designed to be incredibly efficient and gives you the right amount of power that you would need.

The product offers a 1600 watt AC output along with a 2000 watt maximum AC output. This means that the generator has enough power to stay running for an extended period.

Generators are known for making loud sounds, and this can sometimes come in the way of a peaceful camping experience. For those who want to get a product that produces the least amount of sound, this is one of the best options to go in for.

It incorporates a super quiet muffler with a spark arrestor to ensure that the machine produces the least possible amount of sound.

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 also has a Smart Throttle feature that changes up the energy speeds based on the amount of load that the generator is experiencing. This ensures that you are always receiving the right amount of power that you need, nothing more, nothing less.

If you are going on a camping trip, you are probably someone who loves nature. Because of this, it is important to make sure that the tools that you are using during your trip don’t cause harm to the environment in any way. The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 has received certification from the CARB, which means that it produces fewer pollutants as compared to traditional generators.

Pros
  • Quietest Generator On The Market
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Fuel Hungry

Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Generator is an option for those who want a gasoline or propane generator and who want something that gives them plenty of options in terms of its usage. The product is designed to offer around 3400 watts of power, which means that it is enough to power just about any appliance that you need while out on your camping trip, as well as your RV. It has a convenient shut off mechanism that immediately turns the generator off as soon as a low oil amount is detected in the tank.

The control panel is one of the bigger reasons why people tend to choose this particular product over others. No many generators on the market have a panel that lets you customize every small aspect of the generator and the power that it emits. This RV ready generator, on the other hand, is known for this feature, thereby making it a much more appealing option for different user’s.

The sound emissions of this generator are also worth noting considering that they are meant to produce an incredibly soft sound. The product emits around 59 decibels of sound, which might not be the quietest on the market, but is still quiet when compared to some of the common generators that people tend to go in for.

It is known for being fuel efficient and is considered to be one of the better choices for those who want a product that doesn’t use up more fuel than it should. The Champion 3400-Watt This dual fuel generator operates on a 7.5 runtime on half load. Because of the control panel offered with the generator, making the product use less fuel and run longer is absolutely possible.

Pros
  • Efficient Control Panel
  • Fuel Efficient
Cons
  • Not User Friendly for First Time Users

GENERAC 7117 GP2200I

Generators often have multiple different control options that can be incredibly hard to use. GENERAC 7117 GP2200I is simple, efficient and easy to use. It is definitely a good option for first time users.

The generator from GENERAC offers 1700 watts of AC output and offers a strong amount of power with the fuel that is used. It is also designed keeping in mind that not all products can handle large amounts of power.

The product can offer a stable source of power even to appliances that are sensitive and which need a very limited amount of power. The run time of this generator is also worth noting considering that the generator runs for around ten hours on a single tank of fuel on one-quarter load.

The built-in handle makes it easier to transport. User interface is user friendly as it offers a few options that help the user adjust the settings to fit their own needs. Whether you want to reduce the amount of fuel being used or increase the run time, everything is possible with the easy to use panel. The integrated OFF/RUN/CHOKE knob definitely simplifies the startup procedures.

If you need more power, you can connect 2 inverters to get twice the amount of power with just one generator.

Pros
  • Easy to Use
  • Better for First Time Users
Cons
  • Big in Size

Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000

The Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 is a product that is designed to deliver clean and instant power to a number of different appliances, be it your electronics, your RV or even your cooking appliances. It is designed to deliver the most efficient amount of energy while using a moderate amount of fuel at the same time.

If you are ever in a situation wherein you are experiencing a power outage, this is a generator that can help you get through it. The device is designed to give a decent amount of power will producing the most minimal amount of noise. The engine of the generator is also incredibly efficient and is designed to give you a sustainable amount of power with every setting that you use it on.

The sound produced by this generator is also one of the reasons why so many people opt to go in for this product over other options. The generator operates on less than 58 decibels of sound, which means that it is something that can be great for those who want to have a quieter camping experience. The power produced by this generator at a lowered sound is enough to fulfill your needs if you want to have a good and quiet camping experience.

The fuel tank of the generator is also worth mentioning because of the large amount of fuel that it could carry. The fuel tank is impressive because it can run for a period of ten hours before it starts to diminish. The generator also comes with a number of charging ports to make linking up to the generator significantly easier, no matter what kind of device or appliance you are using.

Pros
  • Good For Powering Multiple Devices
  • Easy To Use
Cons
  • Limited Warranty

WEN 56200i

The WEN 56200i is a good product for those who want a simple generator that doesn’t cause much harm to the environment. The product was specially designed for those who need to take a generator along with them on their camping trips, and therefore offers all the essentials that one would need from this.

One of the first features that the WEN 56200i offers is the ability to run on an incredibly low decibel range. It has an incredibly quiet operation, making it ideal for those who want to have a nice and serene camping experience. The generator is also designed for those who want a generator that doesn’t emit too many harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.

It is also CARB Compliant, which is something that environmentally conscious people always tend to look for in a generator. The generator from WEN is known for its high power generation and is known to offer more than 2000 watts of power. The product is also known for having an incredibly long run time and can supply power for eight hours on half load. Overall, this makes it a great choice for those who want a good and reliable product that is in keeping with the highest industry standards.

The clean fuel production is one of the bigger reasons why this particular product has become so popular over the past few months. Generators are known for their high emission rates and are known to be rather unhelpful when trying to conserve the environment. This generator, on the other hand, is known for processing the emissions so that they cause the least amount of harm to the environment. It also has ample ports to ensure that you can connect the generator with absolute ease.

Pros
  • Environmentally Friendly
  • Energy Efficient
Cons
  • Harder to Use for New User

What Should You Look For When Buying A Camping Generator?

If you are considering going in for a good camping generator, going in for one of the options that we have mentioned is probably your best bet. However, not every product on the market is going to fit the diverse range of needs that you might have. Before you make your purchase, it is important to know the different facets that one must take into account when buying this kind of product. Here are some of the things that you should keep an eye out for when choosing the one generator to buy:

Conventional Vs. Inverter Generators

One of the first things that you must understand is the difference between a conventional generator and an inverter generator. Both these are valid choices when going in for this kind of product, but both might not fit your needs. Inverter generators for one are slightly smaller as compared to conventional generators. They also tend to produce a smaller amount of power and have a lower run time as a result of it. However, they tend to be significantly more portable as compared to regular generators.

Fuel Type

There are several different types of fuels that one can use in a generator, but these depend on the kind of generator that you choose to go in for. Diesel generators are one of the most common types of fuels used and are incredibly fuel efficient. Gasoline generators tend to be a good choice for those who never want to worry about acquiring the fuel that they need because of its wide availability.

Propane generators are considered to be the best for emergencies and can be stored indefinitely. You never have to worry about your stock going bad with this kind of fuel. Natural gas is also sometimes used in generators and is also one fuel that is easily available. While solar generators aren’t as common, they are the greenest ‘fuel’ choice.

Power Requirements

The amount of power that you need is something that you should always consider when going in for a generator. Different products tend to have different power outputs and it is necessary to check that before you buy a generator for your camping trip. Make sure to check all the devices that you need to power and see how much they each need.

Noise Level

The amount of noise that a generator makes is something you should consider, especially if you want to have a peaceful and quiet camping trip. Because campsites tend to be incredibly quiet, the noise that the generator makes can seem amplified. Ideally, your generator should not go beyond 58 dB if you are on the lookout for a quiet generator.

Portability

The ability to carry around your generator is incredibly important if you are planning to take it along with you wherever you go. A generator should not be heavy so as to restrict your travel, and should not be too big which could then restrict your space. Always check the weight of the generator that you are choosing and its dimensions to know if it will properly fit in the area that you need it to fit in.

Fuel Efficiency

Even if you don’t want an environmentally friendly generator, going in for one that is fuel efficient is always a positive. A good fuel efficient generator will use a significantly lower amount of fuel as compared to a regular kind of generator and will save you an incredible amount of money in the process. The time that the generator runs for will also be significantly more in a fuel efficient generator as compared to those that aren’t.

User-Friendly Features

Generators tend to come with a wide range of additional features that augment the manner in which these work. These features can significantly improve how these generators work and can make them overall more efficient. Always check the list of additional features that the generator is offering you and determine whether they are what you need. Additional features aren’t always the best since sometimes, these features can make the generator harder to use. Only go in for a generator whose features you know you will be able to use, or which you think might come in handy in the future.

How to Reduce The Noise Of The Portable Generator?

There is no doubt that even the quietest generator on the market is still going to produce a certain amount of sound, and this can get annoying after a period of time. Having to listen to the same constant sound during your camping trip can be especially hard, and is something that often people try to shut out. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways in which you can reduce the overall sound that a generator makes and these are incredibly easy to implement. Here are some of the ways in which you can reduce the noise of a portable generator.

Build A Sound Wall

One of the easiest things to do when trying to reduce the sound that a generator makes is to make a sound wall around your product. The material that you use to build your sound wall should be something thick, and which can absorb all the sounds that the generator is producing. Cinder blocks are considered to be one of the best kinds of materials to use in this instance. All you need to do is stack up a few cinder blocks around your generator. Make sure that it is covering the generator from all three sides well. You can also create a second layer to give you an additional layer of sound reduction.

Reduce Vibration

One of the biggest causes of the loud sounds that a generator produces is the vibration that occurs as a result of the engine running. It is always important to reduce the vibration amount if you want to curtail these sounds and have a better camping experience. One of the first things to do to ensure this is to check the placement of the engine in your generator.

Make sure that it is secure and all the screws are tight and in place. You can also add rubber washers to reduce this vibration even further, making your generator significantly more bearable. If you feel like your engine is not secure onto the frame of the generator, you will probably need to replace them with bigger screws just so that it is secure and it stays in place. In addition to a muffler, you can also add a layer of padding under and around the generator. This can reduce the sound created by the generator coming into contact with the surface that it is placed on.

Use A Muffler

A muffler is one of the best things that one can use when trying to reduce the noise output of a generator. Mufflers are commonly used in vehicles to reduce the amount of sound that they make, and this is something that can reduce the overall noise that a generator makes as well. Because of the size of the generator, you don’t need something too big and too powerful to drown out the sound. A simple motorcycle muffler is considered to be one of the best options for those who want something that works well, and which reduces the sound that is created.

How Much Power Do I Need For My RV Or Camping?

When you go on your camping trip, knowing the intricacies of every facet of your RV is important. We are generally aware of the amount of power our homes and common appliances use, but when it comes to something like an RV, the numbers tend to sip our minds. It is always good to know exactly how much power your RV needs and also how much you are going to have to spend on fuel to power your RV and all is appliances.

Average Rates

The average rates of an RV can give you an idea of what ranges to expect when trying to find a generator that fits your needs. On average, an RV uses around 20 kWh a day. However, the weather is something that can drastically impact this amount. If your RV needs a higher amount of heating or cooling, the average rates of power that it needs can go up significantly. During fair weather, the amount of power that an RV uses can do down by a small amount.

Fuel Type

Even though the average rates can apply to all RVs, it is important to understand your own individual specifications. There are several other factors that can have an impact on the amount of power an RV uses. One of the things that impact the amount of power that an RV needs is the kind of fuel that is being used. On average, generators that use some form of electrical heat need to supply a larger amount of power to an RV. A propane generator, on the other hand, works in a slightly different manner and thereby needs to supply a significantly smaller amount of power to be able to run the RV and all its utilities.

Air Conditioner Usage

The use of air conditioning inside an RV is also something that impacts the amount of energy that is being used. During your transit to your camping ground, the air conditioner is usually turned on, which causes the RV to use up a significantly higher amount of power. However, once you reach the campsite, the air conditioning of the RV is usually turned off, which reduces the amount of power that it needs. In these instances, your individual usage is important to take into consideration when trying to estimate the amount of power that your RV needs to run properly.

Taking Appliances Into Account

An RV has a number of additional utilities that need to be used, especially when out on a camping trip. Things like your fridge, cooking utilities, lighting and other essentials also need some kind of power source to keep them running, even if they are not needed at all times. It is always important to take into account all the things that will need power out on your trip and add that to the amount of power that your RV needs by itself. This can give you a better estimate of how much power you will need for your RV when you are on your camping trip.

How to Connect A Portable Generator To Your RV

If you are planning on going on a camping trip in your RV, it is of the utmost importance that you know exactly how a portable generator is set up. While each generator may have its own individual characteristics and controls, the basic idea of connecting a generator to an RV remains the same. Here are the steps that you need to follow in order to connect a portable generator to your RV.

Find A Good Location To Set Up Your Generator

One of the first things that you need to do is find a good place to set up your generator. If you are going to a camping ground, you need to find out if it is one that supplies its own electricity of if it is one that requires you to get your own power source. Depending on this decision, you need to find a place that fits your needs well. If you are going to a camping ground that offers power, find a place that is near an electrical outlet, or at a good reach from your RV. You then need to inspect your RV to figure out the best place to set up your generator. Make sure that there is ample space in this area and ensure that it is well secured and not somewhere where it could easily topple over.

Juice Up The Generator

Having fuel in the generator tank is incredibly important, and needs to be done before you proceed to the next steps. Make sure that you are using the right kind of fuel to power your generator to ensure that it works smoothly and as intended. Always have extra fuel on you when out on your camping trip in the case of any kind of emergencies.

Batteries Connection

Connecting the batteries of a generator is one of the easiest things to do, especially with the generator models that we had mentioned earlier. Most generators come with a simple cable in which one end needs to be connected to the generator and the other to the batteries.

Re-route The Exhaust System

Your generator is always going to have a certain amount of emissions as it is running. When you are out on your camping trip, you don’t want those emissions coming in your way or blowing towards you. Because of this, it is important to find a proper way to re-route the exhaust system so as to ensure that the emissions are far away from you and the people that you are traveling with.

You may need to secure the exhaust pipe in a way that doesn’t let it slide or fall over easily. One thing to remember is that the exhaust should never be directed inside the RV. This is because the fumes and emissions contain carbon monoxide which can be incredibly poisonous. Always ensure that the exhaust pipe is directed outside the RV to ensure that your generator can run safely.

How to Prepare And Maintain Your Generator For Your Travels

While you may have the best generator on the market, it is not going to work efficiently unless you take good care of it and maintain it well. It is important to know how to do so and be aware of the precautions to take to ensure the proper functioning of your product. Listed below are some of the things that you should try to do in order to maintain your generator properly.

Proper Storage

Storing your generator properly at all times is important if you want to maintain it well during your camping trip. Manufacturers generally have their own set of guidelines which users should follow when trying to use a generator. Before you store your generator, it is important to change the filter and do a full oil change. This ensures that there is no dirt within the tank and allows the generator to operate well. Inspect all parts of the generator and make sure that there are no faulty connections anywhere in the generator. If you are using a generator that runs on diesel or gas, it is important to use a stabilizer before you store it to ensure that it runs smoothly. Always make sure that you have at least ¾ fuel in your tank at all times. However, if you are using a propane generator, you don’t need to follow this step. Find a place that is incredibly secure and where the generator fits well. If you are using any kind of sound walls, make sure that there is space for that too.

Routine Generator Exercises

While it might seem odd at first, conducting a few routine generator exercises on your RV is one of the best things that you can do in order to take care of your generator and to maintain it for a longer period of time. It is important to always try and start up your generator and let it run for at least two hours a month. No doing this can result in more problems with the generator, which can be harder to deal with. Doing this can also help you see if there are any fuel related issues that your generator is facing. This can help you be better equipped for your camping trip and can help you understand if your product has any problems ahead of time.

Lubrication Services

No matter what kind of generator you use, it is important to get a few lubrication services done, especially if you are planning on going camping soon. Lubricating the generator allows it to function better and can ensure that you don’t meet any hiccups along the way. Ideally, an oil change should be conducted every fifty to sixty hours of use to work smoothly.

Clean The Batteries

The batteries tend to accumulate dirt over time that can cause malfunctioning within the generator. It is important to clean out the generator and make sure that there is no residue that can hinder how the generator works.

Frequently Asked Questions on Camping Generators

Is It Alright to Run A Generator for Just A Few Minutes?

A generator should be left on for at least thirty minutes so that it can warm up before use. After this thirty minute period, running the generator for even a small amount of time will not harm the unit.

Can An RV Generator Run Along With A Shore Power?

When camping, it is better to keep the two power sources separate to prevent any kind of mishaps from taking place. Never connect both power sources together into your RV as that could cause a short circuit and power overload in your vehicle.

Can An RV Air Conditioner Be Connected To An RV Generator While Out On The Road?

The answer to this depends on the kind of air conditioning unit you are using. If it doesn’t exceed the power supply offered by the generator, it can be used while on your way to the campsite.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of An RV Generator?

The life expectancy of an RV generator largely depends on how it is used, and the way it was maintained. On average, an RV generator can run efficiently for approximately one thousand hours before it needs thorough servicing. Diesel generators, in particular, are known to last for a significantly longer period of time.