Camping trips may require a trusted portable power source, such as a generator.
Whether you need to power fridges, air compressors, laptops, cell phones, or even an air conditioner, this guide has it all.
Types of Generators Available:
For camping or caravans, only look for inverter generators. Inverter generators are quiet, portable, and economical. They also produce ‘cleaner power’ for running sensitive electronics. Quiet inverter generators are powered with 4-stroke motors and use standard unleaded petrol.
For some campers, a diesel-powered generator will be best suited for specific needs.
Do you have a large motorhome? View our range of vehicle-mounted generators.
What Generator Size Do You Need for Camping?
This depends on what you need to power. Each appliance will draw a certain amount of power. We call this Load.
Some camping appliances have a higher power draw (load).
How Do Portable Camping Generator Watts Work?
Generators are rated in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW).
The higher the wattage rating, the more power the generator can output and the more appliances it can run.
Two ratings are provided
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Continuous Output: This is the power output the total draw of your appliances should remain below. The continuous output is the rating you should focus on the most.
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Peak Output: This is the power that the generator can produce for a very short burst of time. Peak output is useful for appliances with electrical motors and compressors, such as power tools and air conditioners.
TIP: Sometimes a generator will be rated in KVA. Always look to the specifications for the real power output that will be rated in kW or Watts.
Average Appliance Watts:
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Battery Charger = 350W (20A Battery Charger), 1050W (60A Battery Charger)
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Washing Machine = 1200W – 1600W
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Microwave = 900W - 2200W. Tip: try and choose a low wattage caravan model!
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Laptop = 50W
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Phone Charger = 5W
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TV = 200W
You can run all these appliances individually, but powering them all at the same time may be difficult.
We recommend a 2000–2400W generator for a typical caravan set-up.There are not a lot of inverter generators smaller than 2000W, so we tend to focus on this range.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Camping Generator
Run time
When camping, the last thing you need is a power outage that causes food to go to waste, or having to get up in the middle of the night to refill the tank.
Aim for a generator that can run for eight hours. The range of camping generators below will give you a minimum of eight hours of run time, without running out of fuel often.
Noise Levels
Avoid a noisy generator at all costs to keep yourself and your fellow campers happy. Most of the time, your generator will be placed close to your campsite, so quiet is key.
Noise Disclaimer
Be wary of noise levels advertised by manufacturers, as they are often tested under differing conditions.Some generators will only be noise tested at ¼ load, which will be their quietest noise output.
The lower the kW output, the quieter the generator. Small suitcase-style portable inverter generators are by far the quietest.
The Yamaha 2000W Silent Inverter Generator, EF2000iS is one of the quietest generators available, with a noise level of 51.5 dBA (1/4 load) / 61 dBA (full load).
Small and Lightweight
The last thing you want is to have a large, heavy generator for your camping power station. There are so many items to pack and carry around when camping; make sure you go for a compact option.
Running an Air Conditioner
If you are planning to run an air conditioner while staying off the grid away from powered sites, then you will need a generator. A good quality 2400W from our website will support the majority of air conditioners available.Click on the expandable table below to see which generators can run which air conditioners.
(Click table to exapnd)
Our Top Choice Of Camping Generators
Diesel Generator
The Kubota lowboy and Fischer Panda are diesel powered, vehicle-mounted, and water-cooled options for serious motorhome and bus conversions.
Even though the Kubota Lowboy is not classified as an inverter, it is fitted with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) so it still produces clean power.
The other diesel options are the German built Fischer Panda range. These are the only diesel-powered pure sine wave inverter generators on the market.They produce clean power, have smart engine speed functionality, and are very fuel efficient. The Fischer Panda range is extremely quiet and compact.
Both the Kubota Lowboys and Fischer Panda can be configured to auto start as part of a sophisticated power management system.
Petrol Generator
The Maxwatt 2800W Petrol Inverter Generator with Electric Start runs a fuel efficient engine with a pure sine wave inverter technology.The Maxwatt portable generator is the ideal power solution for various settings, whether you’re on a job site, at a campsite, or need reliable backup power for your home or office.This generator produces plenty of power (2500W continuous) for its small size.
Camping Generators: Good, Better, and Best
We highly recommend three tried-and-tested inverter generators for caravanning and camping.
The following models are the best options for each budget:
Good
Cromtech Outback Inverter Generator 2.4kW: A powerful, lightweight inverter generator for under $1,000. YES PLEASE!
Better
Briggs & Stratton P2400, 2400W Inverter Generator Pack: The Briggs & Stratton 2400W generator comes with a 3-year warranty and is under $1,500. Buying the Briggs 2400 is like owning a Honda Inverter 2.2 without having to shell out big dollars.Their service agent network is also excellent.
Best
Yamaha 2200W Inverter Generator Pack, EF2200IS: The Yamaha is unique, modern, lightweight, and powerful. This generator has some cool features, like tool-less entry and the “boost” feature.The boost feature is ideal for starting caravan air conditioners. The generator has a simple fuel drain design that allows you to store the generator dry while not in use.
Bonus Option Under $1500
Another option under $1,500 is the Engel R2500IS Inverter Generator: This generator comes with a four-year warranty and a seven-hour run time (50% capacity). It is an efficient and reliable power option, with service agents nationwide.
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
Comments (16)
Recommend right size generator.
Hello Rob, thanks for the informative article. I have a small caravan on order, and it will have Houghton Belaire HB 2400 air conditioner and was wondering if the Yamaha 2200W Inverter Generator Pack, EF2200IS would be the right size. Will probably be only using the AC with a small 12v tv and the Dometic NRX130-RHH fridge at the same time. Thanks for any advice. IanBy: Ian Thomas on 16 July 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Ian, the Yamaha 2200w will power this air conditioner no problems at all. Remember to be mindful of what are you running at the same time. ie; don't boil the kettle and use the air conditioner at the same time.
Best generator for caravan
Hi can you recommend a generator that will power our 2 berth caravan, it has an electric water pump that doesn’t get enough power from the aux battery.. apart from the pump we power 4 internal lights and have a TV. We would also need to be able to charge our phones up. I was thinking of just plugging the caravan’s Mains lead into the generator - avoiding the aux battery completely. Can you advise pleaseBy: Steve Bevers on 14 July 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Steve, it sounds like you don't have any large power needs which means you don't need to have a larger generator. Any inverter generator between 1-2kva. If you are wanting to run more things like toaster/kettle or roof top air conditioner you will need to step up into 2.4-3kva. Please feel free to give us a call on 1800 787 278 and we can assist in sending you options that will suit
Inverter Generator Suitable for Starting/Running a
Hi, I am purchasing a new motorhome which is expected to be delivered in August 2024. In the meantime I am looking to buy an inverter generator that is capable of running a Harrier Plus air conditioner and other appliances including a microwave. Are you able to suggest the best brand and power output that will be needed to run this equipment? One unit that I have been considering is the Outbax - Gentrax 3.5kw Max3.2kw (Rated Remote Start Pure Sine Wave) petrol inverter camping generator. What do you think?By: David Ramsden on 27 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi David, I will reach out to you via email. For reference the generator you mentioned I feel is too large for your needs and is quite heavy when weight is so important in the caravan. I would check out the Maxwatt 2800W Petrol Inverter Generator with Electric Start, it is 10kg lighter and will easily run the Air Conditioner. Also check out the Cromtech Outback Inverter Generator 2.4kw, another ripper for this application.
Generator for Dometic Harrier Lite
Hi, Can you please advise the best option for a generator to run a Dometic Harrier Lite. Won't get a lot of use but there for those really hot days.By: Steve on 23 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Steve, I have reached out to you via email with some generator choices.
Best option generator to run a Dometic FJ2200 Air
Hello, wondering if you could please help recommend a generator that will run a Dometic FJ2200 (2200W) Air Condtioner? We have a Jayco Cosstrak 13ft that we want to take off grid to the Flinders Ranges later this year. We have 2 x 120W solar panels and a 200Amp Lithium Battery, we would mainly want to run the A/C at night.By: Craig Byron on 18 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Craig, we have reached out directly to you via email. Check out the Maxwatt 2800w Petrol Inverter Generator. This has electric start so it is easy for any one to start
Generator for Houghton Belaire 3400
Hi Folks Looking for a genie to start and run the Houghton 3400 air conditioner as the Honda EU22i will not. AC runs on mains 240v. Will a Cromtech Outback 4500 run the AC?By: Rob Baird on 09 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Rob I have reached out to you via email. Alternatively you can give us a call on 1800 787 278 or jump on our LIVE Chat in business hours
What size and type of Generator
Good morning I am looking for a generator that will run a Truma type Aventa air Conditioner The specs are Power consumption 4.2A cooling Cooling power at 2.4 KW Also looking at running other accessories such as microwave Hoping you can assist Regards RobBy: Robert Alan Gardener on 06 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Rob, I have reached out to you via email. So keep an eye out on that. In the mean time check out the Yamaha 2200w Inverter Generator, EF2200IS , MaxWatt 2500W Petrol Inverter Generator or the Cromtech Outback Inverter Generator 2.4kw for my top 3
Generator sizing - Houghton Belaire 3400 AC
Hi Wonder if you can assist. We have a 19.6ft caravan with a Houghton Belaire 3400 air conditioner, 3000w inverter, and a Honda EU22i generator. However, the Gen will not run the AC even with fridge on Gas and everything else (power wise) turned off. Apparently the problem appears to be part of the Gen power is being used to recharge/top-up the batteries (2 x 200Ah lithium with 510Ah solar panels). All runs OK when plugged into mains 240v. So question - will a larger Gen (eg. Cromtech Outback 4500w) be likely to overcome the inadequacy of the current Gen. Advice/comments would be appreciated.By: Rob Baird on 04 February 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
While the Honda EU22i generator is a very robust and powerful unit, you may need to increase your overall running watts to keep you going. The Cromtech 4500w is a great unit that is very popular for people using more than 2400 watts continuously. Maxwatt is also another brand to look out for as well. These both are backed with a 2 year warranty and offer a great affordable option for powering your caravan off grid. Feel free to reach out to us on 1800 787 278 and discuss your power needs
Honda
Had an older non invertor Honda dunlite 2.2 kw since 1997. As long as you run the fuel out of the carby and start it at least once a year it goes first pull. Never let me downBy: Bert smith on 28 January 2024
Correct size Generator
Hi, we have a 2023 family bunk 21.6 Ask Innovation. It has the Houghton Beliare 3400. We want to start off grid camping, what size would we need for AC, phone charges and possibly a tv?By: Shea Harms on 04 January 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Shea, I have reached out to you via email with some options. My first choices were the Cromtech 2400w Inverter Generator and the MaxWatt 2500W Petrol Inverter Generator these are both affordable options that boast a great warranty and reliability.
Generator for aircon
Hi. I have a Harrier Plus HP36H401R1 aircon. Looking for a generator to run this efficiently plus maybe the microwave at the same time. Thanks so much.By: Jill Daly on 16 November 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Jill, having a generator to run your Air Con while caravanning is a perfect idea. You would be best to aim for a generator over 2.4Kva if you wish to have other appliances running. Keeping in mind when the Air Conditioner drops below it's set temperature and the compressor kicks in or when first turning the Air Con on it is best not to have anything running at the same time.
which Genset will suit my needs
hi team, I am looking at getting a genset to run our caravan it will need to run a Belaire Houghton 3400 r/c aircon and the usual extras microwave/toaster, chargers what would be you recommendationsBy: Aaron Saxton on 06 September 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Aaron, we will reach out to you via email with some options the will best suit your need
What size genny?
About to take delivery of a 2023 van with Air Command IBIS 4 a/c. Add a TV, microwave, toaster and phone charger. I like the Honda and Yamaha brands but which one is quieter and what model would you suggest?By: Andrew on 13 June 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hey Andrew, thanks for reaching out and congrats on the new buy! Both brands are a premium product that will treat you well. We sell and recommend the Yamaha generators. They are reliable and won't let you down
Honda or Yamaha
Hi. I’ve a 7m caravan ( my home ) the aircon is a wren air command reverse cycle, ideally I want to buy the right generator the first time , A toaster , an electric kettle ( using gas now so could use gas all the time ) tv and the battery charger. Price is important but also durability and longevity for the money. Kind regards DavidBy: David on 08 June 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi David, I would look at a generator around the 3KVA mark. The Wren Air Con is an older style Air Con that will have quite a larger power consumption over the newer inverter style air cons. I will email you some more options directly to you
what is the best generator to suit our needs
Hi, we have a 'aircommand' 'Ibis 3' model air conditioner in our caravan. (model number 810001). Im in the market for a generator to suit our desire to run the air conditioner. we have a batter system in the caravan, but not enough to operate the air conditioner. can you recommend the right generator to meet our needsBy: chris bayly on 17 January 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi there, the air command Ibis 3 will require a quality 2400W inverter generator or higher to start and run it. There is one 2200W inverter generator that will power it, which is the Yamaha EF2200IS https://www.caravanrvcamping.com.au/yamaha-2200w-inverter-generator-ef2200is
Another popular option is the Cromtech Outback 2400W Inverter generator https://www.caravanrvcamping.com.au/cromtech-outback-inverter-generator-2.4kw
Beware of cheap inverter generators with embellished specifications and power claims. We only sell reputable brands. Feel free to call for more advice
