The emergence of portable generators has made the camping experience lively and entertaining. More specifically, they provide lighting, heating and any additional energy that a mains connection offers, albeit in comparatively smaller amounts.
Choosing a Generator for Camping
When choosing a generator for camping it is worth noting that you might have to compromise power output capacity for portability. This rules out industrial-grade options that require advanced setups such as generator paralleling in favor of smaller and movable variants.
After narrowing down on small generators, the next step is choosing between standard portable generators and inverter generators. Standard portable generators run on gasoline and produce considerable amounts of smoke. This, along with their noisiness, means that they should be placed a few meters from the camp to reduce pollution.
On the other hand, inverter generators produce less noise than gasoline generators because they only run when they are required to produce power. Also, their complex exhaust system is designed to regulate the amount of noise produced, meaning that this type of generator is usually quieter.
Best Generators for Camping
The following are the generators that are best-suited for powering your next camping adventure.
WEN 56200i
The standout feature of the WEN 56200i is its remarkably low weight that enhances its portability. Weighing just under 50 pounds, this generator should be easy to move around as you shift your camping gear from one location to another.
The WEN 56200i produces 2,000W peak power and 1,600W running power for running electrical appliances. It has four output ports; one 5V USB, one 12V DC and two 120V AC ports.
This generator is equipped with a single-gallon tank that can run for a maximum of six hours when loaded at 50%. If the oil and fuel levels drop below a certain threshold, it automatically shuts down to avoid damaging the generator itself as well as connected appliances. It also has an eco-mode if you want to minimize fuel consumption.
Honda EU2200i
A regular camper recognizes the importance of having a reliable generator. Similar to other Honda products, the EU2200i is renowned for its quietness and dependability moreover, its unique design makes it easy to carry around.
The EU220i has a user-friendly interface that can be operated by all members of the family. Besides, it has a peak power of 2,220W and an incredibly reliable ignition system. As a result, it starts producing power seconds after startup.
Westinghouse WGen7500
If you want to run several appliances, then you should go for this powerhouse. This push-to-start generator has a peak power of 9,500W and a running power of 7,500W. At a 50% load, the WGen7500 can run for an impressive 14 hours.
The WGen7500 prevents engine damage using its inbuilt low-oil shutdown functionality. Also, it has a digital hour meter where the user can monitor its operations. This generator has both 120V and 240V output sockets.
Pulsar 1200W
As the name suggests, the Pulsar 1220W gas-powered generator is designed for lightweight use. It has a peak power of 1,200W and running power of 900W. At a 50% load, this device can operate continuously for eight hours and consume a gallon of petrol in the process.
The Pulsar 1220W is ignited using a single pull recoil. Due to its lightweight design, it can be easily transported in a small car.
Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart
Powerfulness, portability, and versatility are the major selling features of the Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart generator. Its handle is uniquely designed to facilitate easy transportation.
In this model, Briggs & Stratton used a 111cc motor to power the engine. It produces a peak power of 2,200W and a running power of 1,700W. At a 25% load, this machine can run on a single gallon for eight hours.
The control panel of the p2200 PowerSmart has a USB adapter, one DC and two AC outputs. The name ‘PowerSmart’ refers to an energy-saving functionality that serves to increase the runtime of this particular model by regulating engine speed.
Champion Power Equipment 46539
Although it is not the lightest, the Champion Power Equipment 46539 generator is regarded as a portable generator because of its tires and foldable handles. With a 3.8-gallon fuel tank, this model can produce a peak power of 4,000W and a running power of 3,500W.
Typically, this generator uses a start-up battery to ignite its engine. However, in the instance that this method fails, you can still start the machine using a pull-start lever. At a 50% load and a full tank, the Champion Power Equipment 46539 can operate for 12 hours nonstop.
The steel chassis of this generator is designed to increase durability. Moreover, it is reportedly water-resistant, meaning that the 46539 can withstand small amounts of moisture during operation. Regarding output, this machine has an RV receptacle and two 120V sockets. It also has a low-oil sensor to increase the longevity of the engine.
Generac 5735 GP17500E
If you are going to camp for an extended period, you surely would want a robust and reliable machine capable of running for long. This 16-circuit generator can produce an enormous peak power of 26,250W and a running power of 17,500W. At a 50% load, its 16-gallon tank can run for 10 hours.
Despite being portable the Generac 5735 GP17500E has a large footprint and is considerably heavy. Nevertheless, it has wheels to assist with moving it from one place to another. It is packaged with a wheel maintenance kit to ensure that it remains movable throughout.
Atima 3000W
Lately, there has been a proliferation of portable generators that are compatible with recreational vehicles (RVs). The Atima 3000W is one such model. It has an inbuilt RV receptacle that can power the entire vehicle when connected. This includes the RV’s AC, as well as small appliances such as microwaves and fans.
A single unit of the Atima 3000W can produce a peak power of 3000W. However, there is a provision for generator paralleling if you need extra power.
