Power Up Your Camping Trip: Choosing the Right Generator Size

blueyetti generator and solar panels

Camping is a great way to get out and enjoy nature, but it can also be challenging when it comes to powering your equipment. Whether you're running a portable refrigerator, charging your phone, or just needing a light source, a generator is an essential piece of camping gear. But with so many different generators on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we'll take a look at the different factors to consider when choosing a generator for camping and provide a list of recommended generators for different camping scenarios.

  1. Power Needs

    The first and most important factor to consider when choosing a generator for camping is your power needs. You'll need to consider the amount of power required for the equipment you plan to run, as well as the length of time you'll need to run it.

  2. Camping Equipment Power Needs (Watts or Amps)
    Portable Refrigerator 50-100 watts
    Smartphone Charger 5-10 watts
    Laptop Charger 50-60 watts
    LED Light 5-10 watts
    Portable Fan 20-40 watts
    Portable Heater 1000-1500 watts
    Electric Grill 1000-2000 watts
    Air Mattress inflator 120-150 watts
    Portable TV 50-100 watts
    Electric Cooler 50-100 watts
  3. Voltage and Wattage

    When it comes to generators, power is measured in both voltage and wattage. Voltage is the force behind the power, and wattage is the amount of power that a device uses. When choosing a generator, you'll want to make sure that the wattage of the generator is enough to power all of your equipment.

  4. Fuel Type

    Another important factor to consider when choosing a generator for camping is the type of fuel it uses. The most common types of fuel used in generators are gasoline, propane, and diesel. Gasoline generators are the most widely available and are usually the least expensive. Propane generators are a bit more expensive, but they are also more fuel-efficient and produce less emissions. Diesel generators are the most expensive, but they also have the longest lifespan and are the most fuel-efficient.

  5. Portability

    When camping, you'll likely need to move your generator around to different campsites, so portability is an important factor to consider. Generators come in a variety of sizes and weights, so you'll want to choose one that is easy to move and transport.

  6. Noise Level

    Another important factor to consider when choosing a generator for camping is the noise level. If you're camping in a quiet area, you'll want to choose a generator that is as quiet as possible. Many generators come with noise-reduction technology, so be sure to look for that feature when making your purchase.

  7. Decibel Rating

    The decibel rating (dB) is a way to measure the loudness of a generator. A lower decibel rating indicates a quieter generator. A generator that produces around 60-65 decibels is considered quiet while one that produces 75 decibels or higher is considered loud.

Sound Level (dB) Is it Bearable?
30-40 Very quiet, barely audible
40-50 Quiet, similar to a whisper
50-60 Moderate, similar to a conversation
60-70 Loud, similar to a vacuum cleaner
70-80 Very loud, similar to a lawn mower
80-90 Extremely loud, similar to a chainsaw
90+ Dangerous, can cause hearing damage
  1. Run time

    The run time of a generator refers to the amount of time it can run on a full tank of fuel. When choosing a generator, you'll want to make sure that it has a long enough run time to power all of your equipment for the duration of your camping trip.

  2. Types of Generator

    There are various types of generators available in the market that are suitable for camping. Inverter generators are lightweight, portable and quiet. They are ideal for camping and tailgating. Conventional generators are heavy-duty and typically used for job sites. They are not ideal for camping as they are loud and heavy.

Generator Types Fuel Type Power Output (Watts) Weight (lbs) Noise Level (dB) Run Time (hours) Recommended Use
Honda EU2200i Gasoline 2200 47 48 8.1 Camping, Tailgating
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gasoline 2000 44 51.5 10 Camping, Tailgating
Champion Power Equipment 100302 Gasoline 3000 96 68 8 RV Camping
Generac GP3000i Gasoline 3000 79 72 8 RV Camping
Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar 400 35 N/A 24 Backpacking, Remote Camping
BioLite BaseLantern Solar 400 1.76 N/A 24 Backpacking, Remote Camping

Recommended Generators for Camping:

  • For car camping and tailgating, we recommend the Honda EU2200iTAG 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator or the WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator. Both of these generators are inverter generators that are lightweight, portable, and quiet. They also have a long run time, making them perfect for powering small equipment and appliances.
  • For RV camping, we recommend the GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator,3200Wor the Generac GP3000i. Both of these generators have a larger power output, making them suitable for powering larger equipment and appliances in an RV. They also have a long run time and are easy to transport.
  • For backpacking and camping in remote areas, we recommend the Goal Zero Yeti 400 or the BioLite BaseLantern. These generators are small, lightweight, and can be charged via solar power, making them perfect for camping in remote areas where access to fuel is limited.

For a list of the best generators for camping, follow this article.

Types of generators and their fule usage

Generator Types Fuel Type Fuel Efficiency (gallons/hour)
Honda EU2200i Gasoline 0.2

YAMAHA EF2200iS Inverter Generator

Gasoline 0.3
Champion Power Equipment 100302 Gasoline 0.4

GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator

Gasoline 0.5
Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar N/A

ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2

Solar N/A

Maintainance of generators

Maintenance of generators is crucial to ensure they run efficiently and safely. Here are some tips for maintaining your generator:

  1. Keep it clean: Clean your generator regularly, removing any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated on the exterior or in the air filter.

  2. Check the oil: Always check the oil level and change it regularly, as per the manufacturer's instructions. Most generators require an oil change after the first 20 hours of use, and then every 100 hours or annually.

  3. Check the air filter: Clean or replace the air filter as needed. A dirty air filter can decrease the efficiency and performance of your generator.

  4. Check the fuel filter: Clean or replace the fuel filter as needed. A clogged fuel filter can cause the generator to run poorly or not start at all.

  5. Check the spark plug: Clean or replace the spark plug as needed. A worn-out spark plug can cause the generator to run poorly or not start at all.

  6. Check the battery: If your generator has a battery, make sure it is charged and in good condition. If it's not holding a charge, it may need to be replaced.

  7. Run the generator regularly: It is important to run your generator regularly to ensure it stays in good working condition. This will also help to prevent any issues that may arise from long periods of inactivity.

  8. Get it serviced: Have your generator serviced by a qualified technician at least once a year, as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Generator Types Maintenance Schedule
Honda EU2200i
  • Oil change: every 100 hours or annually.
  • Air filter cleaning: every 50 hours or annually.
  • Spark plug replacement: every 100 hours or annually.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
  • Oil change: every 100 hours or annually.
  • Air filter cleaning: every 50 hours or annually.
  • Spark plug replacement: every 100 hours or annually.
Champion Power Equipment 100302
  • Oil change: every 100 hours or annually.
  • Air filter cleaning: every 50 hours or annually.
  • Spark plug replacement: every 100 hours or annually.
Generac GP3000i
  • Oil change: every 100 hours or annually.
  • Air filter cleaning: every 50 hours or annually.
  • Spark plug replacement: every 100 hours or annually.
Goal Zero Yeti 400
  • Clean solar panels: every 6 months.
  • Check battery: every 6 months.
BioLite BaseLantern
  • Clean solar panels: every 6 months.
  • Check battery: every 6 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What size generator do I need for my camper?

    The size of the generator you need for your camper will depend on the power needs of your specific camper and the equipment you plan to run. A general rule of thumb is to add up the power needs of all the equipment you plan to run, and then choose a generator that can handle that amount of power. It is always better to get a generator that is slightly larger than what you think you will need, as this will give you more flexibility and allow you to run more equipment if needed.

  2. What generator is best for RV camping?

    There is no one best generator for RV camping as it depends on the specific needs of the user. Some popular options for RV camping include the Honda EU2200i, Yamaha EF2000iSv2, and Champion Power Equipment 100302. These generators are known for their reliability, portability, and quiet operation.

  3. What size generator do I need for a travel trailer?

    The size of the generator you need for a travel trailer will depend on the power needs of your specific travel trailer and the equipment you plan to run. A general rule of thumb is to add up the power needs of all the equipment you plan to run, and then choose a generator that can handle that amount of power. It is always better to get a generator that is slightly larger than what you think you will need, as this will give you more flexibility and allow you to run more equipment if needed.

  4. What size generator should you get for your RV?

    The size of the generator you should get for your RV will depend on the power needs of your specific RV and the equipment you plan to run. A general rule of thumb is to add up the power needs of all the equipment you plan to run, and then choose a generator that can handle that amount of power. It is always better to get a generator that is slightly larger than what you think you will need, as this will give you more flexibility and allow you to run more equipment if needed.


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Conclusion

Choosing the right generator for camping can be a daunting task, but by considering your power needs, fuel type, portability, noise level, and run time, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect generator for your camping trip. Remember to look for a generator that is lightweight, portable, and has a long run time and a low decibel rating. And always be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation. With the right generator, you'll be able to power all of your camping equipment and have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

About Author:

image of Kevin Pommells

Hi, I'm Kevin Pommells, a lover of camping and the great outdoors as everyone says nowadays. I'm also a passionate soccer fan and the proud owner of CamperRules.com, a website dedicated to helping campers and outdoor enthusiasts make the most of their adventures. With years of experience exploring the wilderness and a deep love for the sport of soccer, I'm always looking for new ways to combine my two passions and share my knowledge with others. Follow me for tips, tricks, and insights on all things camping and outdoor recreation.

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