Nothing’s better than enjoying nature with family and friends. This is the moment where you can carve unforgettable memories. Exploring remote areas and finding fresh new spots every day is always super fun. However, there’s a catch! Electricity can be a problem for campers. Even though you’re out in the wild to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, you still need a power supply to do many things. For instance, you have to charge your phones, your laptop, power the lamps, use the heating system, and many other things. This is why you need the best generator for camping.
No matter where you are and what you do, electricity is important. A reliable generator makes your camping experience more convenient. When it’s dark and cold outside, and you’re in the middle of nowhere, you need electricity. With the best portable generator for camping, you’ll never run out of power. But if plan on using it just to stay warm during camping, we recommend these electric heaters for camping instead.
The best generator for campers makes your life ten times easier, especially when you need to cook. And if you’re enjoying that van life, this is such an excellent investment. You don’t have to keep going to a gas station just to charge your phone. Just stop anywhere you want and make the world your home!
How to Choose the Best Generator for Camping
With so many options on the market today, you won’t have a hard time finding the best generator for camping. There are so many excellent generators to choose from. Depending on your needs and your available space, you may need a big or a small generator. But before you buy your first portable generator, you need to consider these essential things:
Power Production
The most crucial thing when picking the best generator for camping is power production. You need to know the amount of power that the generator produces and how long it can generate the electrical output. Suppose you want to power up a TV, an electric grill, and other power-consuming appliances, you need a generator with a high capacity.
Source of Power
There are many types of generators. There isn’t just one best generator for campers. While many generators use regular gasoline, you can opt for one with a diesel machine. But if you want something more sustainable and better for the environment, buy solar-powered generators. And for powering up small appliances, these backpacking solar chargers may also come in handy.
Size
Don’t forget about the size and the weight when buying a generator. The best generator for camping should be compact while generating enough power. Especially if you prefer traveling light, getting a simple and lightweight generator that you can carry anywhere is always a better option.
Noise
Most generators can be very noisy. So it’s not the best scenario for when you’re traveling. The loud noise of the generator will disrupt your peace when you’re in nature. The best generator for campers should be quiet or at least quiet enough to let you rest. Make sure to check the noise ratings before buying one.
How much power do you need for camping?
To know how much power you need for camping, you need to check what electronics you’re planning to bring. To charge a smartphone, you need 6 watts and for a laptop, 30 watts. But if you bring a mini-fridge and a portable AC unit, you need around 700 watts extra.
Should you turn off the generator at night?
National parks and campgrounds have their own set of rules for generator use, and it may vary. But generally, if your generator exceeds 60 decibels, you need to turn your generator off at night.
Is it okay to run the generator all day?
Yes, it’s completely okay to run the generator all day. A generator typically lasts for about 8 to 20 hours, depending on the model. As long as you maintain your generator properly, you can safely run your generator for days.
BLUETTI AC50S Portable Solar Power Station
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Talking about the best solar generator for camping, the BLUETTI AC50S Portable Solar Power Station should be on your radar. This is a highly efficient solar generator that allows for up to 40% faster charging speed. This device can charge 11 devices simultaneously, which is very impressive. Featuring a wide range of output options, it gives you peace of mind during a power outage. This all-in-one power station is the perfect choice for all your needs.
It’s not wrong to say the BLUETTI AC50S Portable Solar Power Station is the best portable generator for camping. This generator utilizes the highest quality EV-grade 3C battery cell to guarantee the most extended life. It offers better heat dissipation and stability because your safety is always the number one priority. This battery cell is much safer than other typical battery cells. It’s noise-free, eco-friendly, and also produces zero emissions.
What We Love
An efficient solar generator that’s eco-friendly.
Pros:
- Power 11 devices simultaneously
- 40% faster-charging speed
- EV-grade 3C battery cell
Cons:
- The plastic body may get scratched easily
TogoPower Portable Generator
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The TogoPower Portable Generator is an excellent backup outdoor generator. This can also be the best generator for campers. This powerful generator is gas-powered that can produce 1000 watts of starting power and 800 watts of running power. It’s excellent for all appliances, including electric lamp, laptop, blender, coffee pot, fan, and electric stove.
Your camping experience will be much more enjoyable knowing that you can still do everything you usually do at home. It feels like bringing the comfort of your house with you while camping. With high combustion efficiency, the TogoPower Portable Generator provides you with power flexibility. It can run up to 12 hours non-stop. This generator is very power-efficient, that’s why we think it’s the best generator for camping.
What We Love
A power-efficient generator for a comprehensive application.
Pros:
- Air cooling power system
- High fuel efficiency
- 120V AC output voltage
- 2-stroke engine
Cons:
- A little noisy
Jackery Solar Generator
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Looking for the best solar generator for camping? The Jackery Solar Generator is the perfect answer to that. This powerful solar generator is composed of a portable power station and 2 packs of solar panels that provide you with green, quiet, and convenient energy solutions. It features 3 pure sine wave AC outlets and quick charge ports that can charge all your devices in a short time.
This generator is nearly silent when in operation, and it produces zero emissions. That’s why it’s better for you and the environment. The best thing about the Jackery Solar Generator is its fast solar recharging. With the MPPT controller, it can get maximum efficiency when recharging. So far, it’s still the best generator for camping that produces green energy.
What We Love
A fast recharging solar generator with zero emissions.
Pros:
- Built-in MPPT controller
- Easy to use
- Low noise level
Cons:
- It’s not suitable for a rainy or snowy day
DuroMax XP4000S Portable Generator
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The DuroMax XP4000S Portable Generator is all you need if you want the best generator for camping with huge power. With 4000 peak watts, this generator can handle even the most power-consuming device. It utilizes the DuroMax 208cc OHV engine, which is a potent engine. There will be no problem when handling multiple jobs all at the same time. Everything from lights to high amperage power appliances like a fridge is easily covered. But instead of bringing a fridge, getting these coolers for travel may be easier for you.
It’s not wrong when we say that the DuroMax XP4000S Portable Generator is the best portable generator for camping. Especially if you’re planning a family camping trip with many family members, this can power it all! And with low oil shut-off, it protects your generator by automatically shutting it off when the generator senses that the oil is low.
What We Love
A high-capacity generator with a powerful engine.
Pros:
- Low oil shutoff sensor
- 4,000 peak watts
- Complies with emissions standards
Cons:
- It’s quite heavy
ZOOMBROS 330W Portable Solar Generator
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Not many generators offer wireless charging features. That’s why ZOOMBROS 330W Portable Solar Generator is unique. The wireless charging function is compatible with all Qi-enabled devices. This way, you don’t have to deal with all those messy cables anymore. For those looking for the best solar generator for camping, this is the one to get! This solar power generator can be quickly recharged under the sun. But you can also recharge it from an AC wall outlet if you don’t have access to direct sunlight.
The ZOOMBROS 330W Portable Solar Generator is powerful enough to supply power to all your devices and camping tools. It can charge a phone up to 24 times. If you bring a laptop, this generator can recharge it 5 times. And for small appliances, this can power them up for 9 hours straight.
What We Love
The unique wireless charging feature.
Pros:
- Quick solar recharging
- Over-voltage protection
- Built-in eye protection reading light
- Solid handle
Cons:
- The limited size of the wireless charging area
Energizer Fast Charging Solar Generator
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Energizer is one of the most popular battery manufacturers in the world. They never stop innovating. It makes sense why the Energizer Fast Charging Solar Generator is the best solar generator for camping. Built with Cypress chip and PD fast charging protocol, it’s the fastest portable power supply. Now you don’t have to waste your time anymore waiting for the generator to charge up. The high stability lithium iron phosphate battery generator has 2000 cycles.
When you buy this generator, you get a 1-year warranty. It’s also already CE, FCC, PSE, ROHS certified. We highly recommend the Energizer Fast Charging Solar Generator is a small generator with a highly integrated circuit. It provides effective electrical energy conversion. This space-saving generator is the best generator for campers.
What We Love
A compact generator with high stability.
Pros:
- Automatic sleep/shutdown function
- Quiet
- Abnormal alarm function
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- Cables for solar aren’t included
EF ECOFLOW Portable Solar Battery Generator
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The EF ECOFLOW Portable Solar Battery Generator is the best solar generator for camping with outstanding performance. This portable power station can charge up to 80% in just one hour. It’s impressive! This excellent generator instantly beats the competition. The EF ECOFLOW Portable Solar Battery Generator packs a massive 1260Wh of power storage capacity. Stay powered for hours, anytime and anywhere! Now you can bring your laptop, TV, microwave, coffee maker, tablets, fridge all at once. Feel at home even when you’re out in nature.
This generator comes with triple rechargeable modes. You only need to charge it for 2 hours from 0 to 100%. The patented X-Stream Technology empowers the generator to be charged 10 times faster. That’s why we think it’s the best generator for camping. It comes with all the top-notch features that can’t be found in other brands.
What We Love
A high-performance generator with a handy power source.
Pros:
- X-Stream charging technology
- Energy efficient
- Multiple charging outputs
- 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Very expensive
WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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If you’re looking for the best generator for campers that’s portable and lightweight, the WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is the answer. It’s ultra-lightweight, making it easy to carry anywhere with you when camping. This powerful generator can produce up to 1700 watts of clean power for safe charging. The best thing about this generator is that it’s extremely quiet. The noise is comparable to the sound of normal conversation of humans. It provides non-invasive power whenever needed.
The WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is the best portable generator for camping because it produces clean and reliable power for your needs. And since it limits total harmonic distortion to under 1.2%, it’s safe to power up all the sensitive electronics, including your laptop, cell phone, tablets, and other vulnerable electronics.
What We Love
An ultra-lightweight generator with low noise.
Pros:
- Fuel Shutoff Feature
- 2-year warranty
- Includes 2 three-prong 120V receptacles
Cons:
- No gas gauge
Champion Dual Fuel Portable Generator
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The Champion Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an excellent generator that features dual-fuel technology. The 224cc engine can run on either propane or gasoline, making it more flexible when you don’t have access to one of the fuels. This generator provides you with 9 to 10 hours of run time, which is quite impressive. The Volt Guard technology protects against power surges so that it’s safe to use in any conditions. Also, since it comes with Cold Start technology, you’ll find no problem starting the engine in cold weather.
Keep track of the voltage, run-time hours, hertz, and the power output using the Intelligauge that shows you all the information. This powerful generator is suitable to use anywhere. It’s perfect for home, work, and for travel. This is also the best portable generator for camping.
What We Love
An RV-ready portable generator with dual-fuel technology.
Pros:
- Runs on gasoline and propane
- Volt Guard protects against power surges
- Cold Start for easy starts in cold weather
- Low oil shut-off sensor
Cons:
- Quite loud
FlashFish 40800mAh Solar Generator
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Sometimes it’s hard to find the best solar generator for camping with a huge capacity and great power efficiency. But the FlashFish 40800mAh Solar Generator seems to be the perfect solution for campers looking for a solar generator with a massive power supply. This is a high-performance compact power station that’s powerful enough for all kinds of outdoor electricity demands. Whether you’re going camping or road-tripping, it provides you with enough power for everything you need.
The FlashFish 40800mAh Solar Generator features multiple charging outputs to give you better options. There are 2 DC outputs, 2 Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports, and a regular USB port to power your smartphones, laptop, camera, light, drones, and appliances. With all the handy features, making it the best generator for campers.
What We Love
An easy-to-carry power source with a huge capacity.
Pros:
- Compact design
- Multifunction LCD display
- All-round protection against overcurrent
Cons:
- May overheat without proper ventilation
Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Honda has been a market-leading engine manufacturer for years. It makes sense if many people believe that the Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator is the best portable generator for camping. The quality of Honda’s products is just incomparable. This latest release from Honda is currently one of the most popular generators on the market.
Have reliable power at your fingertips with Honda’s inverter generator. It can operate a wide variety of appliances, making it perfect for portable use when you go camping. The Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator operates at a very low frequency, which is quieter than a normal conversation. That’s why it’s still the best generator for camping. When you’re out in the wild or in a camping park, you need a quiet generator.
What We Love
A stable generator with low noise.
Pros:
- Eco-Throttle System
- Stable clean power
- It runs for 9.6 hours on a single tank
Cons:
- Premium price
Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator
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Generac claims that its generator is quieter than Honda’s. So, if you’re looking for the best generator for camping that’s ultra-quiet, this should be your choice. The ultra-quiet technology and enclosure design provide optimal quiet performance. The durable steel enclosure, easy portability, and clean inverter make it the ideal generator for recreational activities. With the Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator, never be afraid of running out of power anymore!
Featuring a power rush advanced technology, the Generac 7127 iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator is 16% more powerful compared to other generators in the same category. That’s why it’s still the best portable generator for camping. And with the digital smart LCD, it’s easy to monitor the wattage, run-time remaining, generator status, and fuel level.
What We Love
A power-efficient and quiet generator in a compact design.
Pros:
- 3 operation settings integrated into 1 dial
- Digital smart LCD
- The very low noise level
Cons:
- The spare parts are pretty hard to find
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer
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Out of all generators on this list, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer is the one that offers the best price to value ratio. It’s truly the best generator for camping. It’s even listed as “Best Portable Power Station For Use In The Outdoors” by DigitalTrends. This portable generator features a solid handle, and it’s also easy to operate. Wherever you go, stay powered with the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer.
This compact generator comes with a built-in MPPT controller with maximum recharging efficiency. It’s able to produce eco-friendly clean power for everyone. If you’re conscious about the environment, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer should be on your must-buy list. It’s definitely the best solar generator for camping. This generator easily beats the competition as it offers the bang for your bucks.
What We Love
A green solar generator that’s easy to carry and operate.
Pros:
- Built-in MPPT controller
- Solid handle
- Lithium-ion battery pack
- High-speed solar recharging
Cons:
- Only suitable for small appliances
