Camping trips are becoming more common as the weather changes and people want to enjoy the views. However, the lack of power is one of the biggest concerns when camping. A portable generator is ideal, but finding the right generator can be time-consuming.
So, we share seven of the best portable generators for camping in this article that offer longer battery life and durability, and are safe to use considering their low price point.
Best Portable Camping Generators
These are the best portable camping generators, offering performance and value for money.
1. Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station
Our first choice for portable generators is the Jackery Explorer 1000 because of its performance and efficiency. This portable generator charges and runs on solar energy, providing up to 20 hours of backup if full power is not utilized. On the other hand, you can attach up to four solar panels for charging.
Depending on their input, this generator can take 6-11 hours to charge completely. Not to mention, it is lightweight, quiet, durable, and has multiple charging ports to run almost everything that requires 1000-watt power. Therefore, this is one of the best camping generators if you don’t want to run anything heavy that requires more than 1000 watts.
Features
Its most noticeable feature is the three 110v, 1000-watt power outlets on the back. You can run an AC, a fridge, or equipment that requires 1000-watt power. While it won’t provide more than 1000 watts in one outlet, you can efficiently run three heavy appliances once fully charged.
Despite providing so much power, this generator creates so much noise, making it a perfect option for camping. On the other hand, you can attach solar panels to charge and use this camping generator simultaneously. It won’t take more than a couple of hours to charge it entirely using high-input solar panels, so the direct power covers you for the day while its battery backup covers you for the night.
The only downside is that you’ll need to purchase solar panels separately. Of course, you can charge it in the house and take it, but it would be better to take the solar panels if you want to camp for a couple of days.
This inverter generator also has two USB-C slots to charge your mobile device and laptop and two USB-A ports to charge your portable appliances. A small display shows the remaining battery and the input and output power. Since it only weighs 10 kg, you can easily carry it anywhere.
- Compact and powerful
- Support up to three 1000 watts appliances
- Quick charging via solar panels
- Silent and durable
- Solar panels are not included in the package
- Batteries may be hazardous
2. Portable Power Station 500W,288Wh Solar Powered Generator
If you are tight on budget and still want a portable generator that can provide good backup while camping, the Portable Power Station 500W is the best option. It is inexpensive compared to other brands and small enough to carry easily. Thus, this is one of the best inverter generators providing value for money.
Using a solar panel, you can charge this solar generator in 11 hours at max. Using two or three solar panels can decrease the charging time. Also, you can use solar panels to get direct power and charge the generator simultaneously. And this also has a small torch installed, making it a suitable companion to find your way in the dark or during a power outage at night.
Features
This portable camping generator comes with a 288Wh lithium-ion battery pack to deliver a safe and stable 500-watt output. This battery can easily survive more than 3000 recharge cycles and is replaceable. So, if you ever have problems with the battery timing, you can get the spare battery from the official store and replace it.
Another useful thing about this portable inverter generator is its size. It is so compact, light, and silent that you can put it near you for laptop and mobile charging, and it won’t disturb you. Therefore, this is a perfect option if you have no electricity and want to charge your devices without hearing loud noises.
The downside of this generator is the lack of USB-C ports. However, you have four USB-A ports and can use a type-C converter to get the desired results. In addition, you can use any solar panel to charge this portable generator without worrying about compatibility.
With a four-way charging method, you can use solar panels, car chargers, AC, or a generator to charge this product. We recommend grabbing a 110-watt solar panel to charge this device if you plan to camp for more than two days.
- It comes with one year warranty
- Multiple outlets for your different device
- Lightweight and solid build
- It can charge up to eight devices
- Not suitable for heavy appliances
- It does not last long
3. 200W Portable Power Station, FlashFish 40800mAh Solar Generator
If you want a generator that runs on gas but is fuel efficient, this FlashFish Portable Power Station is an ideal choice. The best part is that you can charge using conventional methods like AC or solar panels; the gas will keep you covered if the battery runs out in the middle of the night. In addition, despite running on gasoline, this portable generator is silent and can run for up to eight hours.
What makes this portable generator so special are the fast-charging USB slots. They can provide up to 65 watts, allowing you to quickly charge your devices. In addition, it only weighs 2.5 kg, which is less than some laptops, allowing you to carry it easily in a small bag. However, this device can only provide a maximum power of 200 watts, which is unsuitable for heavy appliances like refrigerators or deep freezers.
Features
There is no need to set the output power for your device; this generator will smartly adjust the output to match the desired power. You can connect up to four devices using USB ports, and they’ll get the necessary wattage to charge quickly. Even if the total power exceeds 200 watts, it will adjust it, so lower battery devices get more to charge quickly.
Its multi-function LCD allows you to check the remaining battery life, total output and input, and how many devices are connected. Considering how light it is, an LED light would have been great to use this portable generator as a light in the darkness.
There is also overvoltage protection, so this device will be okay even if you have a high-voltage surge in your area. The best part is that you can charge this device with a solar panel for a clean and efficient battery life.
This device comes with a 12-month warranty; however, if the device burns, the warranty will not cover the generator. If something is broken, the company will repair it for free.
- Multiple charging outputs
- High performance and handy power source
- Standalone AC/DC provides easy operation
- Triple rechargeable modes
- Can’t charge and run at the same time
- Can mostly handle small appliances
4. EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA
EF ECOFLOW is a heavy-duty inverter generator that provides up to 1800 watts to run appliances like portable fridges. Therefore, this is one of the best portable generators if you like to camp with your family. Moreover, since you need to carry appliances to store food and more gadgets to charge, this inverter generator can easily support up to nine devices.
The best part is that this device supports a 400-watt solar panel to provide power and solar charging simultaneously. What makes this even better is that it won’t take more than two hours to charge this completely. You can even run this quiet generator on gasoline, providing the best fuel efficiency among other generators. Despite running at full power, it won’t create loud sounds to attract any animal nearby.
Features
The most noticeable feature of this inverter generator is its peak power of 3300 watts. Though it will reduce the battery timing drastically, you can run hefty appliances for up to 40 minutes on this device. You can even activate this peak mode manually if you want to run something that requires more power.
The six AC outlets can easily power six gadgets, including a hairdryer and a microwave. The type-C USB ports it has can quickly charge power banks while its LCD shows how much power is coming and going out. So, this is the best option if you want a quiet camping generator that provides a tremendous amount of power.
Any solar panel providing 10-65 volts can charge this inverter generator. Purchasing solar panels or other chargers from the official store is better for safety. Third-party charges won’t charge the battery efficiently, reducing its lifespan.
Even using a standard cable offered by the company, it won’t take more than two hours to charge this camping generator to 80%. You also get a two years warranty from the company, covering everything only if you use the genuine parts to charge this camping generator.
- Efficient solar generator
- Multiple output slots provide more options
- A 1260Wh camping generator
- It comes with three types of charging cable
- Requires an update to work with a solar panel above 200 watts
- Has been known to switch off randomly
5. GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator,3200W Ultra-Quiet Gas Engine
If you want a camping generator that provides a massive output at a reasonable price, this GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator is the winner. You can get up to 3200-watt power without the turbo mode. These portable generators are available in multiple variants if you have a tight budget but still want more than 200 watts.
The reason why this camping generator is less expensive is that it only runs on gasoline. You have no option to charge it via solar panels or power outlets. Despite running on gasoline, this quiet camping generator is quiet enough not to disturb your sleep while camping. On the other hand, it is fuel efficient, not consuming much gasoline while staying on for a long time. It is not a lightweight camping generator, so you must find the optimum spot to set it up and use it while camping.
Features
Unlike many other inverter generators, this one comes with covered sockets to avoid getting dirt inside of them. A smart LED display on the side alerts you when the fuel is low, overloaded, or ready to use. You can attach a parallel generator kit to provide double backup for more appliances. However, the parallel kit is sold separately and has the same price tag.
This generator comes with a one-year warranty, and technical support is available 24/7 to help you. If you face any complications, a professional can pay a visit free of charge.
With one gallon of fuel, this generator can run for up to eight hours at 2000 watts with economy mode on. The more appliances you attach, the higher the output, reducing the overall time. If you want to camp for more than two days, taking 10 gallons of fuel with you would be better.
What makes this generator stand out among other camping generators is the ability to use it for as long as you want. Since it runs on gasoline, you can take it on a country trip and use it even if there are cloudy days, which do not provide enough sunlight for charging.
- Strong power
- Super quiet and fuel saving
- Ultra-lightweight for extensive use
- Strong panel with parallel function
- Not a suitable option when it comes to fuel
- It sometimes comes with a faulty spark plug
6. AFERIY Portable Power Station 2000W with 6 Pure Sine Wave
If you are looking for a long-term investment in a solar generator, the AFERIY 2000W Power Station is the best. On average, its battery can survive more than 3000 discharge cycles. However, for better battery life, you must not charge it more than 80% and start charging it when the battery is lower than 20%. It won’t take more than 90 minutes to charge this completely, keeping this generator ready whenever you need it.
Remember, it charges with an input power of 1100 watts, so only use cables given by the company to avoid short-circuiting. Yes, you can charge it using solar panels and your car, but we recommend that you charge it fully at home and use solar panels afterward.
Features
Unlike many inverter generators, this one comes with all sorts of protection. You don’t have to worry about voltage, temperature, current, or short circuits. Besides this, AFERIY 2000W generator delivers constant voltage to avoid damaging your gadgets. In case of any problems in any output port, the generator will give a loud beep and stop providing power to that particular port.
The best part is that it reaches 4000 watts quickly for heavy power appliances, so you can keep on working. However, after 30-40 minutes, it will warn you to remove some gadgets so this generator can work under normal mode.
This power station comes with ports like USA-A, USB-C, and six AC outlets providing 2000 watts. You can charge your laptops more than 50 times with this generator, and it can even run a coffee maker for up to six hours. Out of the box, you get a solar charging cable, a carrying bag, an AC charging cable, a dust cover, and a three years warranty.
- Powerful monster providing 4000 watts
- Charges to 100% in 1.6 hours
- Three charging methods
- BMS safety management system
- Warning it is extremely loud
- It does not come with solar panels
6. Portable Power Station 320Wh, Lifepo4 Solar Powered Outdoor Generator
This is one of the most organized portable generators with all charging ports on the back. Not only that, it is only 4 kg in weight, making it easy to carry anywhere without support. Unlike other generators, this device features five-way charging allowing you to dual charge it using solar and AC Power. In addition, it has built-in BMS for extreme security and has eight-way protection to keep it secure from short circuits, overcharging, and extra load.
This power station is also available in a 240Wh version if you are on a tight budget and would like to use a small generator for minimal use. This 240Wh version also runs on gasoline, making it an optimum option if you want to go for a country ride. In contrast, the 320Wh version is best for everything if you have some extra bucks.
Features
This solar-powered generator has two quick-charge ports providing 33 and 60 watts to charge your laptops and mobiles quickly. Since it provides constant power, you don’t have to worry about these ports providing more than the required power.
Lifepo4 batteries are where this generator shines, providing more battery timing, and these batteries can survive more than 5000 recharge cycles. It also contains two built-in LED lights to act as an emergency light so you can easily find your stuff in the dark.
Another great thing is the temperature safety that automatically shuts down the generator when the temperature rises more than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, the overall noise of this generator is low even when running all night at full power.
With this generator, you can charge up to nine devices, providing every gadget with the necessary power. However, if the power reaches over 200 watts, it will warn you and shut you down.
- LiFePO4 batteries are safer and long-lasting
- Dual-way quick recharge technology
- Compact and easy to use
- 24/7 customer service
- It takes a lot more time to charge
- The fan on this is very loud
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Portable Camping Generators
Here are some factors to help improve your buying decision if you are interested in a different product than what we mentioned.
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Noise
Since these are camping generators, noise matters a lot, you don’t want to end up staying up all night because of loud noise, plus they can attract animals. So, as you purchase a camping generator, ensure they are as silent as possible. Remember, a powerful generator offering up to 2000 watts will be loud, but it should not be more than 65 decibels. You can check the noise while purchasing the generator; keep it at a distance from you, almost 15-20 feet and see if that is not too loud.
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Power
These generators are available from 200-4000 watts of power output, but you don’t need that much. It is better to check how much power you need before choosing a generator. If you want to charge your mobiles and laptops, a small 300 watts generator would be enough. However, if you like to go out with your family, you’ll need a 2000 watts generator.
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Weight
You can’t carry much weight easily, so purchasing a 15-20 kg generator won’t be easy to take on a trip. Choosing a solar or electric charging generator that won’t weigh more than 10 kg would be better. On the other hand, if you like to take heavy appliances that run on 1000 or more watts, you might consider taking a heavy generator offering up to 6000 watts of power.
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Charging
Old-school generators run on gasoline, while many new generators utilize solar and AC power to charge. The gasoline option is great since your generator can run under any circumstances, but it might not be affordable for many people. The opportunity to charge it at home and use it until it runs out of juice is convenient, but you have no backup plan. Solar-charged generators are the best since you can use a powerful solar panel to charge and use the generator. When choosing, a generator with multiple charging options is the best so you can power it using any available resource.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best generator for tent camping?
Jackery Explorer 1000 is one of the best tent camping generators; unless you want less power, you can opt for Lifepo4 Solar Powered generator. The main idea of these generators is that they are compact and light, so you can easily carry them. They don’t create too much noise to disturb your sleep and won’t attract animals. Furthermore, with their extended battery life, you can easily expect a backup of eight to ten hours.
2. Should I use a gasoline-based generator for camping?
A gasoline generator is a suitable option if you spend a lot of time camping. Since you can’t have sunny weather everywhere or an option to charge your generator via AC, gasoline can be a convenient option. However, you must choose a generator offering efficient fuel consumption so one liter can at least give you a backup of three to four hours. Besides this, search for a gasoline generator with a quiet engine because such generators tend to create a very loud sound as you start them.
3. How power panels do I need to charge my solar generator?
That depends on how much solar input your generator can take. If it can easily survive 400 watts, you can grab a solar panel of such input and quickly charge your generator. On the other hand, some generators are compatible with their respective company panels, while some are fine with any solar panel you can use. Make sure to check this before getting a solar generator so you won’t end up wasting money on a third-party solar panel.
4. What is the quietest generator for camping?
You can decide this by checking how much noise a generator makes and seeing which is the quietest for you. The maximum noise level for a camping generator should not be more than decibels, so if you have a generator making 48 deciles of sound, it can be the quietest one on the list.
Final Words
Portable generators are life-saving in camping, and we share the best ones in this article. If you want a lot of power, the GENMAX generator is ideal, but if you want an option to charge your mobile and laptop without losing a buck, the Lifepo4 solar generator is the best.
