Buying Guide for the Best Generator For Rvs
When choosing a generator for your RV, it’s important to consider how you intend to use your RV, how much power you need, and how portable or quiet you want the generator to be. A good generator can make your camping trips more comfortable by powering your appliances and electronics, but picking the wrong one can mean either not having enough electricity or lugging around an unnecessarily large and loud machine. Understanding the key features will help you match a generator to your unique travel habits and RV setup.Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, tells you how much electricity the generator can provide. This is important because all your RV appliances (like air conditioners, microwaves, and TVs) use a certain amount of power. Wattages usually fall into three tiers: small (up to 2,000 watts), medium (2,000 to 3,500 watts), and large (over 3,500 watts). If you mostly need to charge phones and run lights, a small unit will be enough. For running one big appliance like a microwave or air conditioner with a few other devices, pick a medium unit. For powering several large appliances at once, go for a large generator. Take stock of which devices you'll want to use at the same time and add up their wattages as a guide.
Fuel TypeGenerators for RVs can run on gasoline, propane, or diesel. Gasoline is common and easy to find, but you need to handle it carefully and store it safely. Propane burns cleaner and the tanks are easy to swap, but may offer a bit less power. Diesel is more efficient and safer to store, especially if your RV already uses diesel. Think about what’s most available and convenient for your trips. For most casual trips, gasoline or propane are standard, but diesel may be better for longer journeys in larger RVs.
Noise LevelNoise level is typically measured in decibels (dB), and it's important if you want a peaceful campsite or if campgrounds have noise restrictions. Loud models may put out around 70 dB (like a vacuum), while very quiet units drop below 60 dB (similar to a conversation). If you value peace and quiet or camp in places with rules about noise, pick a quieter generator, even if it means slightly less power. If you’re parked far from others, noise becomes less of an issue.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easily you can move, lift, or store the generator. Smaller units are generally lighter and may have handles or wheels, while larger ones can be heavy and harder to manage. If you’ll be moving the generator in and out of storage or using it in different places, look for a model that’s light enough for you to handle comfortably, or with wheels for easier movement. If you'll set it up once and leave it, portability might not matter as much.
Run Time and Fuel EfficiencyRun time is how long the generator can operate on a single tank of fuel. Fuel efficiency refers to how much electricity you get per unit of fuel. Long run times mean you won’t have to refuel often, which is nice for overnight use. Shorter times might be okay if you only need power for a few hours. Check if the run time fits your camping style—overnight users need at least 8 hours, while day-trippers can manage with less.
Power Outlets and ConnectionsThis refers to what types of plugs and sockets the generator offers. Some have standard household outlets, while others include RV-specific plugs or USB ports for gadgets. Think about the devices you need to plug in and make sure your generator has enough of the right outlets. RV-ready models will have outlets that match your RV’s power cable directly and save you from needing extra adapters.