Setting off with a pop up camper to explore places is fun. But as soon as you set off, you are away from wall outlets. So, charging your smartphone or laptop or running the air conditioner can be a challenge.
But with hundreds of portable generator models available, camping is easier than ever. You just need to choose the right model for your needs. How do you do that?
Our team of experts has reviewed some efficient portable generators for you. Take a thorough look at their features and find the best generator for pop up camper.
Make your next camping hassle-free with a portable power source.
Table of Content:
Can I Use a Generator to Power My Pop Up Camper?
Portable generators are as mobile as pop up campers. So, they are a good fit together. You can easily use a generator to power your pop up camper if your camper doesn’t have a built-in generator.
Buying a pop up camper with a built-in generator will usually cost a lot more than having a portable generator. This is a great benefit when you are planning to roam around on a tight budget.
These portable generators provide streamlined power for all your appliances, which makes your camping convenient. A portable generator is a great answer to all your power needs in a pop-up camper, from charging your devices to running air conditioners.
But before you pair a generator with your pop up camper, you need to determine how powerful the generator you need to buy is.
What Size Generator Do You Need for Pop Up Camper?
The wattage calculation is crucial before you even browse for a generator. Going with a generator that provides less power than you need is the last thing you want to do. But buying an unnecessarily large generator might break your bank.
So, it is wise to calculate the total requirement of watts. Heavy appliances like a refrigerator, air conditioner, oven, heater, etc., consume the maximum power. You might have other light appliances in your camper as well.
Figure out that starting watt of all the appliances you will use in the camper. After totaling, keep a safety margin of 20%. For example, if all your appliances draw a total of 3000 watts, take a generator that can provide 3600 watts.
Small or mid-size pop up campers usually requires a generator between 1500 and 3000 watts. So, buy a generator according to your needs.
What Are the Best Generators for Pop Up Camper?
- Editor’s Choice: Champion Power Equipment 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Best for Sensitive Electronics: BILT HARD Quiet Inverter Generator
- Most Noise-free: Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
- Best for Fuel Economy: WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Most Powerful: Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator
- Most Versatile: A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
- Most Portable: Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator
- Best for Warranty: DuroMax XP5500EH Portable Generator
- Most Affordable: Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Comparison Chart:
Image | Product | Technical Spec | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Editor’s Choice
|
Champion Power Equipment 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Best for Sensitive Electronics
|
BILT HARD Quiet Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Most Noise-free
|
Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Best for Fuel Economy
|
WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Most Powerful
|
Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator |
|
Check Price |
Most Versatile
|
A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Most Portable
|
Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
Best for Warranty
|
DuroMax XP5500EH Portable Generator |
|
Check Price |
Most Affordable
|
Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator |
|
Check Price |
9 Best Generator For Pop Up Camper Reviews 2023
Here are our top 9 generators that you can connect to your pop up camper to meet all your power needs.
1. Editor’s Choice: Champion Power Equipment 4500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Champion’s innovative and powerful 4500-watt inverter generator offers a range of features to improve your power needs. The advanced technology within this device will never let you down with its high-quality features like Silent Expertise and prolonged run time on economy mode! You can also increase its output easily through optional Parallel Kits available at extra cost.
If you have a home with multiple electrical devices, the parallel kit will help ensure that everything continues to work properly. It allows for two Champion Inverters to be connected and provides up to an additional 3800 watts of power from your generator or battery backup system!
The 212cc engine is a reliable workhorse that can run for 14 hours when the fuel storage is filled. It features cold start technology, a prolonged operating period, and an easy-to-read gauge with 2.3 gallons of gas that can run 14 hours at 25% load.
With the intuitive EZ Start Dial, you can easily monitor power, frequency, and working period. Plus, Economy Mode will keep an eye on your engine’s energy intake in real-time to reduce wear and tear while monitoring everything at once!
The RV Ready inverter has an electrical load reduction system that allows for quieter, lengthy machine life and upper economy on fuel consumption. The enclosed openings in this product comprise a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120 V 20 Amp household plugs, or 5-20 amp wall transformers, a 12-volt motorized-type outlet. Plus, the double USB port Adapter will keep you powering through all those devices!
This quick touch panel offers a convenient and easy-to-use interface for all your sensitive electronics. The inverter produces Clean Power (less than 3% THD), which means you can connect any device with minimal risk of distortion or damage from power fluctuations!
Technical Information
- Dimensions: 23.2 x 17.7 x 20.1
- Weight: 95 Pounds
- Color: RV Ready
- Voltage: 120
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Engine Displacement: 212 Cubic Centimeters
- Frequency: 60 Hz
- Output: 4500 Watts
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a generator that is easy to start, ultra-quiet, and has more than enough power for all of your camping or tailgating needs, then look no further. The Champion Power Equipment 4500 Watt Inverter Generator comes with an EZ Start Dial, making starting the unit quick and easy.
2. Best for Sensitive Electronics: BILT HARD Quiet Inverter Generator
BILT HARD pop up camper power inverter is the perfect choice for sensitive electronics. It produces clean, stable power (<3% THD) with a quieter volume of 68 dBA that won’t bother you or your neighbors when in use. So it can act as an essential part-time accessory during those long boring nights at work!
The long-lasting HILT 212cc engine has a 14 hour run time and is perfect for those who need their power source on hand. Its easy-to-read fuel gauge allows you to know when it needs more gasoline without having to open up the hood, as well!
This generator produces a pure sine wave power curve that’s safe to use with sensitive electronics. Furthermore, 120V rated output voltage ensures you’ll always have the most reliable electricity possible!
The very silent generator produces a perfect sine wave power curve that is safe to use with sensitive devices thanks to advanced inverter technology. Additionally, the 120V rated output voltage guarantees that you have dependable power, much like what comes out of your house outlets!
Precisely, this best generator for pop up camper is a great option for powering your RV and other portable electronics. It’s small enough to take anywhere but powerful enough to handle even the most demanding jobs around the house or campground!
2 Gallon Fuel Tank will keep you going 14 hours on 25% load–perfect if you want to run all night long while still having plenty leftover in case something goes wrong during daylight saving time.
Also, it has 30 Amp sockets built right into it so that connecting RVs isn’t difficult at all; just plug ‘n’ play.
HARD Generator is lightweight and easy to transport, making it the ideal generator for that on-the-move. The built-in 5-inch rubber wheels provide stability while you’re out there exploring or just spending time outdoors!
Technical Details
- Dimensions: 140 x 20 x 20
- Color: Blue
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Power Outlets: 2
- Engine Displacement: 212 Cubic Centimeters
- Frequency: 60 Hz
- Output: 4000 Watts
- Fuel: Gasoline
Final Thoughts
If you need a portable generator that can provide clean, stable power for your sensitive electronics, then BILT HARD inverter generators are an excellent option. These devices produce less than 3% THD and operate at 68 dBA while remaining quiet enough to disturb you or your neighbors.
3. Most Noise-free: Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
With the Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator, you can power your appliances no matter where life takes us. With RV Ready outlets to meet all of our needs and built-in USB ports so that we are never without connectivity for music or charging devices – this generator has everything one might need in their adventures!
iGen4500 pop up camper inverter generator from Westinghouse is the ideal choice for anyone who needs a power source that can run up to 18 hours on 3. 4 gallons of gas! The variable engine speed and fuel efficiency mean you’ll spend less time at home or in your office waiting around while this thing kicks back.
Westinghouse generator offers a dependable push-button electric start system that makes starting and stopping the engine as simple as one touch. The gasoline-powered unit’s choke operates automatically, making this best quiet generator for pop up camper easier than ever before for you to fire up your power source!
A remote start key fob is the best way to ensure that your generator starts when you need it. With an almost unlimited range, these units can operate up to 260 feet away from their moorings and still provide reliable service, thanks in part due to this innovative design. And this build allows them not only to be started with either recoil or electromagnetic starters- unmatched dependability!
A LED Digital Data Center is included with the iGen4500 Portable Generator. An easy-to-read and handy display tells how much gasoline is remaining, as well as the remaining run time for power production on your generator. You can also see what voltage output it’s currently providing at any given moment.
Westinghouse’s iGen4500 Inverter Portable Generator is equipped with Plug-and-Play Parallel Capability. Pair the device up to your Westinghouse inverters so you can combine power outputs for an even more powerful output!
Technical Details
- Wattage: 4500 watts
- Dimensions: 24.5 x 17.5 x 20 inches
- Weight: 104.7 Pounds
- Color: Blue
- Start: Electric Start,
- Voltage: 120
- Runtime: 18 hours
- Tank: 3.4 Gallons
Final Thoughts
When it comes to power, the iGen4500 generator has you covered. The iGen4500 generator is a great choice for home use or travel trailers. It’s a perfect size and has all the features you need to keep your essentials running when there’s an emergency, outage, or blackout.
4. Best for Fuel Economy: WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
The WEN 56203i generator is a perfect size and weight for those who want to take their power with them. The compact design means that you can easily pack this little gem into your pop-up camper, making it a must-have during emergencies! An integrated handle on top makes it super portable.
Wen inverter generator is the perfect power source for your home. It comes with two AC outlets, one DC 12V cigarette lighter style outlet, and two 5V USB ports to charge smaller electronics like cell phones or tablets; plus includes three-prong 120v receptacles as well!
This powerful beast is a great choice for those who need an extra power source. Not only does it come with two connection plugs, but these parallel connectors can also be used when hooking up another unit enabling you to have double the capacity!
Do you want to be ready for anything? Get an automatic fuel shut-off generator like this one, which shuts off the gas flow before turning itself off. It’s CARB compliant and can provide up to seven hours on a 50% load!
One of the best features of this portable generator is its fuel economy. When ECO-mode is activated, it can reduce power consumption by up to 40%. This means you’ll have more time running your air conditioner or fans without worrying that they will stop because WEN was too greedy for gas!
This power machine from WEN provides clean energy free of voltage spikes and drops with 2000 surge watts, 1700 rated. It also has 1.2 total harmonics distortion for safe charging sensitive electronics!
WEN generator is the latest advancement in energy production. Running on clean electricity and fuel efficiency can power multiple devices simultaneously without causing too much noise.
Technical Details
- Wattage: 2000 watts
- Dimensions: 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7
- Weight: 39 Pounds
- Color: Matte
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Engine Displacement: 79 Cubic Centimeters
- Output: 2000 Watts
- Tank: 1 Gallon
Final Thoughts
The WEN 56203i portable power generator is perfect for those who need to take their home with them on the go. This unit can power a few appliances during emergencies, such as powering your pop-up camper if there’s an outage in an area without proper access!
5. Most Powerful: Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator
With its long-running time and power output, the Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator is a great choice when you need an extra source of power. With 2300 peak watts and 2000+ Running Watts, this generator can keep your home or office powered up in any situation!
WGen3600 is a powerful backup generator for your home during an extended outage or full use of RV electrical equipment. It can push out 3600W constant power with no problem, which makes it much better than other options on the market!
This is a durable, efficient generator perfect for powering option your home or office. It features a powerful 212cc 4 stroke OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve to protect it from wear and tear on rough terrain.
It means no more worrying about fuel gauge inaccuracies in pouring gas! The built-in automatic low oil shutdown system will keep you safe when there’s an issue too large for one machine alone.
The WGen3600 is a powerful generator that can provide up to 12 hours of use on its fuel tank. The large capacity, low noise level, and high power output make it worth considering for your next crisis!
Best RV Outlet combines convenience and innovation to keep your home on the road running smoothly. With an RV Ready 30A outlet that hooks up easily with any travel trailer, this power distribution box will save you time from having multiple cords or outlets laying around!
WGen3600’s control panel is a sleek and ergonomic interface. Controls with similar functions are grouped, making it easy for someone who isn’t very familiar with generators to find their way around without any hassle or confusion on where things may be located about one another.
The absence of clutter also makes the user feel at ease when they look up from what should have been an intimidating device if there were more buttons than lights!
Technical Details
- Wattage: 3600 watts
- Dimensions: 23.3 x 17.5 x 18.7
- Weight: 99 Pounds
- Power: Gas Powered
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Power Outlets: 2
- Engine Displacement: 212 Cubic Centimeters
- Runtime: 13 hours
- Output: 4650 Watts
Final Thoughts
Westinghouse’s WGen3600v generator is a popular choice for those looking to power their RV or pops up camper with an affordable yet dependable 3600-watt engine. The 4550 surge watts allow it when the lights go out during times of emergency stress, so you don’t have to!
6. Most Versatile: A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a power source that will cover all your outdoor event needs and provide stable, clean energy at home, then look no further than this 2000 watt generator. With enough capacity to run several devices simultaneously, the SUA2000iV has everything we need in one convenient package!
A-iPower XG2600E is a gas-powered generator that can provide you with up to 9 hours of continuous use. This means it’s perfect for those who need power when they’re on the go! The fuel consumption rate is 6.5kWh/gallon, which makes this machine one heckuva economic deal.
The 79cc Sense engine is known for being both versatile and hard-hitting. It starts at 2000 watts with a steady output of 1600 watts, making it a great choice among other engines on the market today!
SUA2000iv has a low-HD inverter power with the eco throttle, which can reduce the maximum engine RPM when your current load demand is below one-quarter of that percentage. It also offers the parallel capability for connecting multiple generators to increase their output power even more!
You can’t go wrong with this generator. It provides everything you need to power your RV, and it has some extra features that come in handy on the road, too!
The three outlets provide 12VDC (with a USB adaptor), L5-30R 30A/120V(with RV adaptors), or single 50-20R 20AMP 120VOLT input – perfect for any type of camping hookup needs imaginable.
With its handle on top and a mere 46 pounds, this generator is quite compact. It’s also lightweight enough for you to carry it around if walking long distances isn’t an option! This generator’s lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for those who need a small backup power supply. It also has an affordable price point, which means you won’t have to break your budget just because disaster strikes!
Technical Details
- Wattage: 2000 watts
- Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 20 inches
- Weight: 50 Pounds
- Color: Red and Black
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Displacement: 79 Cubic Centimeters
- Runtime: 4 hours
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for an affordable inverter generator that has quite a lot of the specs on high-end ones, this might be it! The A-iPower Generator features decent features and good performance.
7. Most Portable: Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator
The GP3500iO is the perfect portable inverter generator to have on hand or in an emergency. This lightweight, durable device can provide clean power for all of your crucial electronics. Also, it’s sufficiently simple that you could take one with you everywhere!
Generac’s PowerRushâ„¢ technology includes a higher burst of power, which can be used for equipment that needs it at startup. GP3500iO also uses an older manual pull cord, but this is replaced with Generac’s new and improved design in the newer models to simplify your life while still offering all these great features.
GP3500iO is a powerful generator that can provide up to 11 hours of runtime on one full tank, with its automatic shutoff and spark arrestor. With only 2 gallons fuel capacity, though, it still provides some peace-of-mind while in operation thanks to these safety features!
The control panel includes an economy switch, a grounding location, three indicator lights that indicate when the fuel is running low or if your generator overloads. It also has PowerDialâ„¢ for controlling the power Rushâ„¢ feature with ease!
Generac GP3500iO is perfect for any homeowner who needs to power their home in times of emergency. It’s 25% lighter than previous models, weighing only 74lbs! The open-frame design makes this generator easy transportable and stable enough that you can store it on an elevated surface or use it without worrying about uneven terrain.
Generac generator is one of the quietest generators on today’s market, with an average noise level ranging from 40dB up to 48DB. And that makes it perfect for any environment that needs absolute silence or lower decibel counts and will not affect your sleep at night time.
Technical Details
- Wattage: 3500 watts
- Dimensions: 19.7 x 16.5 x 16.4 inches
- Weight: 74.3 Pounds
- Color: Orange
- Engine: 4 Stroke
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a portable inverter generator to provide clean, uninterrupted power to all your essential electronics in an emergency or simply on the go, then this is the one. The GP3500iO can be easily transported anywhere, and its lightweight frame makes it simple to carry around.
8. Best for Warranty: DuroMax XP5500EH Portable Generator
The DuroMax is a dual fuel 5500W generator that can run most home appliances and tools on propane or gasoline, so you can enjoy power without worrying about running out of fuel! With just one touch-button start option that does not require re-cocking, this device will provide peace of mind for many homeowners.
This DuroMax generator features a 4-cycle air-cooled engine that operates smoothly and reliably with its robust cast-iron sleeve. The manufacturer provides 60 months of the full warranty, but it can withstand 5 – 10 years without any damage or upkeep hitches in practice!
This generator is great for keeping noise to a minimum. It’s eco-friendly, so you can enjoy its low decibel level without worrying about how much sound will disturb others in your home! The maximum output of this DuroMax unit settles at just under 70dB – perfect if quietness matters most.
DuroMax generator is a high-powered machine that can provide you with clean, renewable energy. With two bigger wheels at your disposal and an included handle, this product will make moving easier than ever before.
Undoubtedly, this Generator is a great choice for those who need to have their power restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. It has an easy-to-use control panel with all the necessary indicators, which will help you in emergencies when turning on this machine becomes critical.
The large print markings explain how to operate its hybrid engine, so there’s no confusion about what needs attention first or last minute before being able to restore calm after disaster strikes.
Technical Details
- Wattage: 5500 watts
- Dimensions: 22 x 25 x 22 inches
- Weight: 142 Pounds
- Color: Blue/Black
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Volt: 120
- Frequency: 60 Hz
Final Thoughts
Duromax XP5500EH is a reliable and quiet generator that creates the perfect amount of power for any home. It also has no problems with its engine or regulator, making it easy to use even if you’ve never operated such devices before!
9. Most Affordable: Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Are you looking for a lightweight generator, easy to transport and can provide power when needed? The Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator is perfect for camping trips, tailgating parties, and other outdoor events.
This model produces enough power to run small appliances like fans or lamps and includes an AC power outlet with 3 prong plugs. It also has 2 USB ports so you can charge your phone or tablet!
The 2300W Genkins Generator is a reliable, versatile power source that can rank alongside some of the most expensive generators on the market without breaking your bank accounts. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly 2300W Genkins generator to power your home, then this reliable 79cc engine with variable RPM and amazing inverter is just what you need.
Moreover, this electric vehicle has a very great fuel economy! The 1.36-gallon gas tank provides around 8 hours of runtime (at 50% lead), and it is also extremely quiet, with noise levels varying between 53 and 56dBA depending on power consumption.
It’s a 2300W generator with dual outlets that are perfect for those who need an inverter or two. Plus, this particular model can power your RV and charge its battery simultaneously, making it one big energy-efficient solution!
The Genkins 2300W runs easily and efficiently, with a single dial for fuel control and a pull start system. With this generator’s innovative design features – like the choke lever, which simplifies things greatly- you’ll have everything under control in no time at all!
Technical Details
- Wattage: 2300 watts
- Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 19 inches
- Weight: 51 Pounds
- Color: Blue/Black
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Volt: 120
Final Thoughts
The Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an affordable domestic quality generator with a 2-year warranty. It has all the benefits of being backed by a trusted brand name, and it will meet your power needs for any emergency!
What To Look For Before Buying A Generator For Pop Up Camper?
When you start living off the grid, a portable generator can power up almost everything you need in daily life. But that generator should have the right features to match your needs.
Here are some crucial factors to look for before buying a generator for a pop up camper.
Generator Type
Conventional generators are very common in this case. They are more affordable than modern inverter generators. But there is a problem with these generators. They give alternating current as of the output, which is often not stable.
The fluctuation in the power output can damage your sensitive appliances. On the other hand, inverter generators convert the output current in DC and then revert it into AC to produce a more stable output.
As a result, inverter generators are more efficient and safer to use. But these generators are usually costlier than their conventional counterparts.
Power
This is probably the most emphasized factor while choosing a generator. Most users don’t bother much about other factors as they see a generator as a power source only.
That’s kind of true. Power is the primary reason behind buying a generator. So, you need a generator that can power up all the appliances you use in the camper. Some people mistakenly calculate the running wattage of electrical appliances.
But in reality, devices draw more power when starting. So, your generator can fall short of providing enough power to the devices if you buy a low-powered generator.
Fuel Consumption
Fuel cost can fluctuate depending on how much power you are drawing from the generator. But an efficient generator will reduce your fuel cost by a notable margin.
These generators might cost a bit more while buying but will save your back in the future. So, don’t get fooled with cheap prices. Rather, check the fuel consumption rate of the generator you choose to know how much it will save for you.
Noise Level
You might never want to sleep beside a generator that is yelling like a helicopter. Choosing a quieter generator will make your camping experience far better. Conventional generators usually make more noise than inverter generators.
Check the specification of the generator to know its noise level. Choose something that produces less than 60 dB.
Portability
Generators used in pop up campers should be compact and lightweight. Though the size and the weight of the generator mostly depend on how powerful it is, you can always have compact models of the same power.
A portable generator will allow you to take it away from the camp when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the answers you were looking for. Oh, you weren’t? Still, you can have a look to know something new.
Will a 3000 watt generator run a 30 amp camper?
Yes, a 3000 watt generator will be good enough to run a 30 amp camper. But you should keep emergency situations in mind and keep some safety margin. If there is any possibility of running several heavy appliances at the same time, consider buying a 3600 watt generator.
What size generator do I need for 30 ft camper?
You are supposed to have different heavy and light appliances like air conditioner, refrigerator, microwave oven, water heater, etc., in your 30 ft camper. A moderately powerful generator will be necessary to power up all these.
It is tough to be precise without knowing the requirement of your appliances. But a general rule is to take at least a 3000-4000 watt generator for your 30 ft camper. It will ensure you never fall short of power.
How do you hook up a generator to a camper?
It’s very easy to connect a portable generator to your pop up camper. Firstly, you need to find a suitable spot for placing the generator. Use a grounding rod connected to the generator through a copper wire to ground the generator.
Then you can connect the generator cable of your camper to the generator. Remember, keep the exhaust of the generator facing opposite the camper so that you don’t inhale toxic smoke.
How long will a 3500 watt generator run on propane?
There is no definitive answer to this question. This depends on the load capacity of the generator and the size of the propane tank. For example, if a 3500 watt generator runs on 50% load, it will run approximately 10 hours on 20 lbs propane.
But the timing can vary depending on the fuel consumption of your generator. Usually, generators lose efficiency when they age. So, old generators will run less than standard.
How long can I run a pop up camper generator?
The running time of the generator varies depending on the model. Most portable generators can be used for up to 20 hours at a stretch. But if you talk about the built-in generator of your camper, it can run up to 100 hours without a break.
Conclusion
Even after narrowing down the list, you might get confused about which generator to choose for your pop up camper. Let us help you further.
Champion 4500 watt inverter generator can be the best generator for pop up camper with 212cc engine that can run for 14 hours at a stretch. It incorporates cold start technology, EZ start dial, and other modern features to power up all your appliances conveniently.
It also provides clean power to smoothly run all your sensitive equipment while being very compact and portable. A very good choice for all pop up campers out there.