Best RV Generators: Meet All Your Camping Power Needs

Best Overall: Champion Power Equipment 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Best Value: WEN 56380i 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Honorable Mention: Westinghouse iGen4500 Portable Inverter Generator

Best Lightweight: Cummins Onan P4500i Inverter Portable Generator

Most Durable: Champion Power Equipment 3550W Weekender Portable Generator

I chose the best RV generators by taking a look at the wide selection of options available online. I compared different models made by reputable names in both power tools and equipment and camping or RV gear, seeking out options that were well-reviewed online and performed reliably. To highlight the top products, I looked for generators made specifically for use with RVs, with reasonable sizing and weight so they could be carried easily on the road. I also looked at various wattages and power output levels for different needs. And I highlighted models that operated quietly, to meet campground noise limits and ensure these generators could be used around other campers reasonably. 

The Champion Power Equipment 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a fantastic combination of power, reliability, and smooth performance that you can depend on for years to come, which is why it’s my top pick. However, if you’re keeping value for your money in mind, the WEN 56380i 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator is another great choice, thanks to its long list of features, convenience, and solid power output. 

Before you settle for any basic generation, know what makes certain RV-ready models more convenient, powerful, and portable. Here’s what you should keep in mind as you consider and compare different generator options. 

When you’re looking for power, an open frame generator will deliver. These generators run loud, but they tend to be less expensive than their alternative, the inverter generator. They produce a lot of power, and they’re suitable fits to power most kinds of electrical appliances. However, there are a few key details that make open frame generators less popular for RV use. First and foremost, their high noise level isn’t a great fit for camping; they’re disruptive in peaceful outdoor settings, and they may not meet campground noise limitations. Additionally, open frame generators generate power that isn’t safe for more delicate appliances. They can power a fridge or AC, but not your laptop or smartphone, as they can damage some electrical gadgets. 

Inverter generators are the most popular pick for RV use. They’re available in many different wattages, and they can produce solid power — power that’s smoother and, in general, safer for delicate electrical appliances and gadgets. They convert AC power to DC, then back to AC so you have “clean” power heading into your RV. Plus, unlike open frame models, inverter generators are campground-friendly; they produce less noise and operate far quieter. As an added bonus, inverter generators tend to be more portable, as they’re usually smaller in size and lighter in weight. 

The power output is the first detail you should consider on any RV generator. It’s what determines how much you’ll be able to power up — or, more simply, what appliances your generator can run. A lower wattage means light-duty appliances can run off the generator; a higher wattage gives you more potential. Try to estimate how much power you’ll need to run your most essential items, or if you plan to power your entire RV, to figure out what’s suitable for you.

A portable RV generator isn’t exactly convenient to bring on the road if it’s too heavy and takes up way too much space. For a truly portable product, you’ll want to consider the dimensions and the overall weight to ensure those specs can be carried inside your RV or vehicle. Extra features, like wheels, a carry handle, or a slim profile, are especially helpful when you’re hitting the road and need your generator to come along. 

You have a few different options to fuel your RV generator: Propane, diesel, and gasoline. So, as you’re picking out a product, you’ll want to think about which fuel best suits your needs and is easiest to replenish as you travel. But you should also look into a generator’s fuel consumption, or how quickly it’ll burn through fuel as it powers your RV’s electrical systems. Look for fuel-saving features like eco mode or adjustable output to keep tabs on your fuel consumption. 

If your generator can be heard throughout the entire campground, it’s probably too loud. Some generators are especially noisy, but others are designed to produce fewer decibels and have an overall lower noise output. Take a look at the product’s decibel rating when you’re shopping for a generator; that’ll give you an idea of how loud it’ll be while running. If you’re particularly sensitive to noise (or need to keep campground noise regulations in mind), look for a quiet model that’s capped at a lower decibel level. 

There’s a wide range of RV generators at almost every price point. If you don’t need a lot of power and don’t mind working with a smaller generator with fewer features, you can find budget-friendly options priced between $350 and $750. These generators can power certain appliances or systems within your RV for the short-term. Most 2,500-watt and higher generators will cost between $800 and $1,300, and they include higher-end models with extra features and capabilities. The most premium RV generators — and those with the most power — can run $1,400 or more. 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.