Power Up Your Adventure with The Best Camping Generator
Ready to take your camping adventures to the next level? A portable generator is a must-have for anyone who loves camping! In our blog post, you will find the best camping generators suitable for all your needs.
Ready to take your camping adventures to the next level?
A portable generator is a must-have for anyone who loves camping! Not only do they provide ac power for your appliances and sensitive electronics, but they also come in handy during emergencies.
We know that choosing the right portable generator can be tricky, so we have put together a list of the best ones on the market for you.
Whether you are looking for a lightweight generator or a large power station, we have you covered!
Keep reading to find the best portable generators for camping that will suit your needs.
How We Picked The Best Portable Generators For Camping
It can be tough to find a portable generator that suits all your needs. You have to read through a tonne of user reviews and then compare different models, & still cannot be exactly sure about the product you will buy.
It's hard to know what to look for when you're shopping for a camping generator. Do you need one that is extremely quiet? What about portability? Exactly how much power do you need? Do you need solar generators or something powered by gasoline? Do you also need continuous power during power outages or is it just for your camping world or is it meant for off-grid living?
Moreover, it's tough enough trying to fit all of your camping gear into your car, much less packing an extra piece of equipment.
We've done the hard work for you. After reading through thousands of user reviews and spending hours researching different generators, we have picked the best ones for you. Whether you're looking for a quiet model or one that is portable, we have something perfect for you.
Why you will love it
WEN 56203i 2000-Watt is a user-friendly gas-powered portable generator that can be the perfect solution for all your power needs during your next camping trip. Whether you're car camping, tailgating, or just need something to generate electricity during a power outage, this generator has got you covered.
This portable generator weighs only 38.6lbs, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. But don't let this lightweight generator fool you: with a peak output of 2000 watts, this portable generator unit is sufficient to not only power up your campsite but also run larger appliances if need be.
It is also an extremely quiet generator that generates electricity free of voltage spikes and drops. This means you can use this clean power safely even for sensitive electronics like charging phones, laptops, and TVs. It also has a 12-volt DC outlet for charging batteries & 2 USB output ports.
Wherever you set up your camp, don't be left in the dark - get this gas-powered best portable generator today!
What you should know
Item Weight - 39 lbs Engine Type - 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement - 79 CC Frequency - 60 Hz
Runtime - 7 hours Output Wattage - 2000 W
The WEN 56203i Portable Inverter Generator is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable source of power that is also very portable.
This generator is powered by a 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine, which provides a running wattage of 1700W for around 11 hrs with a single tank that can hold 1-gallon fuel. Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down.
This unit is specially built to reduce the operating noise level, generating only 51 decibels at quarter load. This makes it perfect for use in camping and other outdoor activities where you don't want to disturb the peace. In addition, the WEN 56203i is also very lightweight and easy to carry, making it even more convenient for use on the go.
You can also link up any two WEN generators using a WEN Parallel Connection Kit that is sold separately if you need more output.
Low-oil and low-fuel automatic shutdowns combine with built-in overload protection and indicator lights to safeguard both your generator and your electronics from damage.
Also, this portable generator is CARB compliant, making this environmentally friendly, so now you need not worry about polluting your campsite, as this generator leaves very little footprint behind.
Overall, the WEN 56203i is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful and portable generator with great build quality that is not only always RV-ready but will also suit your off-grid lifestyle.
What could have been better
The WEN 56203i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator is a great option ideal for powering your campsite.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that you'll need to ground this portable generator with a 12 AWG wire that is sold separately. Failure to do so might result in damage to the unit or injury.
However, as long as you take the necessary precautions, the WEN 56203i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator will serve you well.
Why you will love it
Honda is a legendary maker of champion generators, known for quality and dependable performance. Many generator manufacturers still look up to Honda to emulate their superior build quality. Their portable generators have powerful capacity but still are extremely quiet, and the EU2200i is no exception. This lightweight generator weighs just over 47 pounds, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Whether you need continuous power for your home, RV, or outdoor adventures, the EU2200i is ready to deliver. With its clean power output and ultra-quiet operation, this generator is perfect for camping, tailgating, or any other activity where you need reliable power.
The EU2200i is the perfect choice for those who demand the best.
What you should know
Wattage - 2200 W Item Weight - 46.5 lbs Voltage - 120V Engine Displacement - 121 CC Frequency - 60 Hz Tank Volume - 0.95 Gallons
The EU2200i is one of the best portable generators on the market, thanks to its reliable engine and advanced features. The engine produces a steady frequency output of 2200 watts, making it ideal for powering not only essentials like lights and appliances but also for more challenging things like a coffee maker or even a vacuum cleaner.
The generator also features smart technologies like CO-MINDER, which continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels. This generator is hands down the quietest generator, among all the portable generators available, making it perfect for use in locations where the noise level is a concern.
All this makes the Honda EU2200i a great choice for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities.
What could have been better
If you're in the market for a portable generator and willing to pay the price for the best generator quality, the Honda EU2200i is a great choice.
A potential downside of this camping generator is that it doesn't have a USB outlet. This means you won't be able to charge phones or other sensitive devices directly from the generator. Instead, you'll need to use an adapter.
While this isn't a huge inconvenience, it's something to keep in mind if you're planning on using the EU2200i as your primary source of power.
Why you will love it
Looking for an adventure-proof power solution? Check out the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500. This compact and lightweight solar generator is perfect for camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activities.
The lithium-ion battery pack can be easily charged from an AC outlet, your car, or even a solar panel. And with a 500W output, you'll have enough power to keep all your devices running smoothly.
So whether you're exploring the great outdoors or just spending a day at the beach, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 has you covered.
What you should know
Wattage - 500 W Voltage -110 Volts
Weight - 13.3lbs Battery - Lithium-ion Battery
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is a great choice for those who need versatile power output and want to ensure long battery life.
This power station provides 500 watts of power and several Protected Layers of Technology that help to keep the battery life long.
The generator also has an LCD screen that displays power output in real-time, so you can easily monitor your power usage.
Additionally, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 camping generator comes with a built-in LED light, making it easier to use in low-light conditions. Overall, this is a great option for those who need a versatile and reliable power source.
What could have been better
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is a great choice for many reasons. However, there are two features that can be annoying for some users.
First, the display backlight auto-off feature can be irritating if you want to keep an eye on the power level.
Second, the fact that it is not waterproof means you'll have to set up a shade for this generator in the rainy season.
Overall, though, these are minor quibbles and do not take away from the overall functionality of the product. The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is the best portable generator that has solar charging capabilities for any camper who wants to be prepared for anything.
If you need more juice out of your solar generator and don't mind the extra weight, then you can check their other higher capacity models, the Jackery Solar Generator Explorer 1000 or the Jackery Solar Generator Explorer 2000 Pro as well.
Why you will love it
The Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator is perfect for all your camping needs. Its lightweight and portable design make it easy to take with you wherever you go, and the clean & steady power output of 2200 watts will keep all your devices and appliances running smoothly.
Whether you're powering up your RV or just need a reliable source of backup power, the Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator can be the perfect solution if you have a tight budget.
What you should knowTwo
Item Weight - 53 lbs Engine Type - 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement - 79.7 CC Frequency - 60 Hz
Runtime - 9 hours Output Wattage - 2200W
The Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator is a great choice for those who need a reliable and affordable power source. This generator features a 3 HP 4-stroke 79.7cc OHV engine that is capable of delivering up to 9 hours of run time at a quarter load.
The fuel tank has a capacity of 1 gallon, making it easy to keep this generator running for extended periods of time. In addition, the Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shutdown feature that helps to protect the engine from damage.
This EPA-approved generator includes two 120-volt AC outlets and one 12-volt DC outlet, making it perfect for powering a wide range of small appliances and devices. It has a recoil start only, as such, no battery is needed, and it runs on unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. It produces a sound of around 54 decibels at quarter load and at peak, it can reach up to 65 decibels
What could have been better
The Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator is a nice budget choice for anyone looking for a portable generator.
Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator is quite heavy compared to the others on our list, however, it has a well-designed carry handle that distributes the weight evenly, making it easy to carry. Another drawback of this model is that it cannot work efficiently at higher altitudes of 3000 ft or more above sea level due to reduced air flow reaching its carburetor. If you can manage with this, you can get yourself a Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator.
Notable Contenders
Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet 1600
When it comes to choosing a quiet camping generator, the Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet 1600 can be a good option to consider.
This model features an improved digital inverter module that allows the engine speed to vary depending on the electrical demand – which significantly reduces noise levels. Additionally, exclusive Powerbar monitors make it easy to see how much power is being used at any given time.
However, fuel efficiency is greatly sacrificed with this model, & compared to our top models above, this generator is seriously lagging behind in this department.
Westinghouse iGen2200
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is a nice portable generator that is easy to carry around and with 2200 watts of power, this generator can handle your small appliances and electronics with ease. A convenient USB port lets you keep your devices charged while you're on the go.
However, please note that this generator can be quite loud when running at full capacity. Also, there is no fuel gauge, so be sure to keep an eye on your fuel levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
People want to go camping, but they're not sure if a generator is the right choice for them.
Moreover buying a camping generator can be confusing because there are so many options available.
It's hard to know which camping generator is right for you without doing a lot of research. They have a lot of questions about what to look for when choosing a camping generator.
We've put together this guide to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about camping generators.
This guide will help you decide if a camping generator is the right choice for you and teach you how to choose the best one for your needs.
What size of generator do I need for tent camping?
It depends on what you need the generator for. If you just need it to power a few lights or a small appliance, then a portable generator should do the trick. But if you're looking to power your whole RV, then you'll need a larger generator that's more suited for camping.
No matter what size generator you choose, it's important to make sure that you have enough gas to last throughout your trip. So always bring along an extra gallon or two of gas just in case. And remember to never run a generator inside a closed space, like a tent or an RV, because the fumes can be deadly.
Which is better for camping, an inverter or a generator?
This depends mostly on your usage. But in general, inverters are better for camping than generators because they are much quieter and smaller. Inverters also run on batteries, which can be recharged with solar panels or a car charger.
Generators, on the other hand, require gasoline or diesel fuel to run, and they are much noisier than inverters. However, generators are much more reliable, & can give much more power output for longer durations compared to inverters.
Nowadays the best features of these two have been combined to create what we call inverter generators.
What is an inverter generator?
An inverter generator is a type of generator that produces alternating current (AC) from direct current (DC). Inverter generators have the best features of both inverter & generator as such, are typically more expensive than traditional generators, but offer several advantages, including:
- Quieter Operations
- Smaller size/lighter weight
- The ability to power sensitive electronics
Are inverter generators worth the extra money?
Inverter generators definitely have a number of advantages over traditional generators. Not only are they more fuel-efficient, but they also produce much less noise, and can be plugged into home outlets to recharge batteries or run small appliances.
For people who need to power their sensitive electronics like laptops or iPhones, inverter generators are the way to go. However, they do come with a higher price tag than traditional generators. So if you're just looking for a basic generator to power your home during an emergency, a standard model will probably do the trick.
Do I need to ground my generator when camping?
You might be wondering whether you need to ground your generator when camping. The answer is maybe. It depends on several factors, including the type of generator you have and the area you're camping in.
If you have a portable gasoline-powered generator, it's generally not necessary to ground it, since these generators typically have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) built into them.
However, if you're using an inverter-type generator or one that produces more than 1000 watts of power, then it's recommended that you ground it. As for where you're camping, if you're in an area with sandy or rocky soil, then grounding your generator isn't as important since there's already one.
How do you earth a portable generator?
The most common and effective method is to use a grounding rod. Grounding rods are made of metal and are driven into the ground. Once the rod is in the ground, a wire is attached to it and then connected to the generator frame. This will create a path for any excess current to flow into the ground instead of through your appliances or electronics.
Another way to earth a generator is by using tropes. Tropes are metal plates that are placed on the ground and buried. A wire is then connected from the generator frame to the trope. This will also provide a path for any extra electricity to travel to the ground rather than through your appliances
Where should I keep my generator at the campsite?
If you're bringing a generator, you'll want to make sure to keep it in a safe and convenient spot. Ideally, you should keep it outside of your tent in a dry area. If possible, try to put it on a raised platform so that it's less likely to get wet or flooded.
You'll also want to make sure that the generator is far away from any fuel sources - you don't want any accidents! If possible, try to keep the generator covered so that it's protected from the elements.
And, of course, always follow the manufacturer's instructions when operating your generator.
By taking these precautions, you can be sure that your generator will be safe and ready to use when you need it.
Will rain ruin a generator?
Rain will not ruin a generator in the short term. In fact, generators are often used in rain and other bad weather conditions. They're built to be durable and withstand a range of environmental factors.
However, it's always a good idea to arrange shade for your generator at the campsite, because if the generator is not properly covered it can be damaged by rain, in the long term.
The damage will likely be in the form of rust, which can cause the generator to not work as well or stop working altogether.
Can a portable generator be out in the snow?
Yes, these generators can be out in the snow. Just make sure you keep it covered and away from any moisture. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operations.
If the temperature is very cold (e.g. below freezing), you may need to add some special winterized oil to the gasoline to prevent it from gelling up and causing engine problems.
You should consult your generator's owner's manual or a reliable automotive shop for specific advice on this. Adding the wrong oil or not enough of it can damage your engine, so it's important to get it right.
So What Are The Best Camping Generators For You?
Camping generators can be a lifesaver when you’re out in the wilderness and need to power your devices. But with so many options available, it can be tough to choose the right one for your needs.
That’s where we come in – we’ve done all of the research for you and found the best generators on the market. Whether you’re looking for something small and lightweight or a powerful generator that can run your whole campsite, we’ve got you covered. So according to our experts, the best generators for camping are :
Best Value For Money Pick - WEN 56203i 2000 Portable Generator
Best Not-So-Cheap Generator - Honda EU2200i
Best Solar Generator - Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500
Best Budget-Friendly Option - Sportsman Gasoline Powered Generator
Best of the Rest - Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet 1600
Thanks for reading our guide. Hope you found it useful. Just don't forget to click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to add them to your cart and start enjoying fun-filled days without having to worry about power.
