10 Best Generators for Travel Trailers in 2024
If your travel trailer doesn’t have a generator, you’ll probably want to get one at some point. When you search for the best generators for travel trailers, you need to know what parameters are important. The first thing you need to look at when it comes to a generator is the amperage and how long you’ll use the generator. In this article, we’ll talk about how to choose the right model for your travel trailer and what are the best generators on the market. So, let’s start!
Table of Contents
Can RV be Powered on a Portable Generator?
Yes, RV (recreational vehicle) can be powered on a portable generator if you have enough wattage within the generator. Keep in mind NOT to run all appliances at once in your vehicle, so that your generator can work as long as possible.
The RV connects to the generator in the same way as it would to campground hookups. When installing the generator, select a location between 5 and 10 feet away from your vehicle, and connect it to the RV with an extension cable.
Note! Never run the generator inside the travel trailer. When the generator runs it releases toxic gas and carbon monoxide which can seriously harm you.
How To Choose Right Generator For Your RV?
The generator’s wattage is usually listed on the device’s label, so you can always check and see its power when buying a generator. The basic choice is a 2,000-watt generator, which is enough if you use a minimum amount of energy in the RV. However, there are generators that have more power. So, if you estimate that you will use more energy, take a stronger generator.
There are generators that have 5,000 watts and even more. If you are not sure how much wattage you will need, sum all the appliances in your RV that you will use, and then you will know what generator you need to buy. Let’s use an example; if you plan to use an air conditioner and several other devices at the same time, a 2,000-watt generator will not be enough for you.
10 Best Generators For Travel Trailers
Here is a list of the 10 best generators that you can use to power your travel trailer. Let’s begin!
| Best Generators for Travel Trailers | Power: | Quality: |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Honda Power Equipment 3000W | 3,000 W | 4/5 |
| 2. Champion 100263 RV Generator | 3,400 W | 5/5 |
| 3. Honda EB2200i | 2,200 W | 3/5 |
| 4. Pulsar Products G450RN | 4,500 W | 4/5 |
| 5. WEN 56380i 3800W | 3,800 W | 5/5 |
| 6. Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt | 3,500 W | 3/5 |
| 7. Generac 76711 GP 1200i 1200 Watt | 1,200 W | 3/5 |
| 8. Generac 7117 GP2200i 2200 Watt | 2,200 W | 4/5 |
| 9. A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator | 2,000 W | 4/5 |
| 10. Westinghouse Inverter Generator | 2,200 W | 5/5 |
1. Honda Power Equipment 3000W
Unlike most generators, this Honda generator is very quiet and operates at 49 to 58 Db(A). This model produces less noise than a normal conversation. Honda 3000 is very reliable and efficient in terms of fuel consumption. It can run for up to 20 hours on 3.4 fuel gallons.
This model has built-in oil detection sensors that automatically turn off the device when the oil level is too low. Honda 3000 is a generator that is the best choice for those whose priority is power, reliability, and quiet operation. Since this model is popular among campers on the market, a wide range of spare and additional parts and adapters are available for it.
2. Champion 100263 RV Generator
Portable Champion RV Ready generator that comes with inverter technology is the best choice when it comes to camping trailers. This generator runs at 3,400 watts and has a dual-fuel system that can run on propane or gas for as long as 7 hours. Also, this generator has a sensor for low oil levels and an economical mode that extends the engine’s life, allowing it to work more efficiently and quietly.
Champion can also produce clean electricity and is thus suitable for powering particularly sensitive electrical devices in your RV. The quick-touch control panel and the electric push-button for start kick are great conveniences. This generator is fully portable thanks to its wheel kit; it has a relatively quiet mode except when it is in full operation. The bad side is the lack of parallel capability.
3. Honda EB2200i
This portable Honda EB2200i generator is one of the most popular models among RV owners. The reason is simple – this generator gives more power than others in the same class. Even compared to its previous version (EU2000i), it produces 10 % more power.
Its great feature is the CO-MINDER function, with which you can be sure that the level of carbon monoxide it releases will never be above the allowable limit. It weighs only 47 pounds (21 kg), making it one of the lightest portable generators on the market.
4. Pulsar Products G450RN
This Pulsar generator provides comfort to the owner because of its simplicity. It comes with a remote control which allows you to turn it on from a distance of 80 feet. This portable generator has Never-Flat wheels, an extended handle that is very easy to store. Its tank holds 3.2 gallons of fuel and runs at 4,500 watts.
5. WEN 56380i 3800W
This generator is quiet and at the same time powerful, with a power of 3,800 watts. When using this model, you do not have to worry about your electrical devices because this generator produces clean electricity. WEN 56380i generator is very economical and efficient. It comes with a smart function that can maximize the generator’s lifespan by using the fuel from the device before it turns off.
6. Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt
This Generac 7127 generator is 40% quieter than all other generators on the market thanks to Advanced Inverter technology and a specific closed design. The model also has a built-in intelligent LCD screen with which you can easily monitor how much power it has, where you stand with fuel, how much wattage is used at any time, and so on. Additionally, it has built-in USB ports through which you can charge devices such as tablets and mobile phones.
7. Generac 76711 -1200 Watt GP 1200i
Those who have tried the Generac 76711 generator claim that this model is certainly one of the best portable generators on the market. It produces almost no noise and has a closed design which is why it is a favorite among many campers. It provides clean and stable electricity for sensitive devices by using True Power technology, while the economy mode is responsible for energy-saving. It also reduces emissions by automatically adjusting the engine speed.
Related Article: 6 Best RV Tankless Water Heaters for Instant Hot Water
8. Generac 7117 GP2200i 2200 Watt
The Generac 7117 is also one of the generators that is an excellent choice for a camping trip or for your travel trailer. It is not as strong as the Champion that we mentioned above, but it comes with a capacity of 2,200 watts. This model is good if you are looking for a generator that will ensure the operation of only a few devices in your trailer or if you plan to use it as an additional power source while camping.
Note! This generator has not compatible with RV so you can’t connect it to your trailer on 30-amp service. On the other hand, this is a quiet and compact device that is very easy to use.
Here are some advantages of the Generac 7117 generator:
- Stable and clean power for sensitive electronics
- Run time 10.75 hours on 1.2-gallon fuel tank (when 25% load)
- Easy carrying ensured by built-in handle
- Economy mode reduces noise and extends run time
- Parallel-ready, two for 2x the power connection possible
- USB outlet and 12V DC outlet ready to use
The weight of this generator is 46.6 Ibs, and its dimensions are 17.9×11.4×19.7, which means that without much thought you can say that it is a small but very reliable device.
9. A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator
A-iPower is a great choice if you are looking for the best generator for the money. It is a 2,000-watt model with a 79cc A-power engine that produces clean energy and can run for seven hours. It weighs 46 Ibs, is portable, has a full-gauge built-in, a multi-switch for easy operation, and a DC plug adapter.
Note, if you have a trailer of medium or large category, this generator will not be able to meet all your requirements. It is not suitable for using AC devices, and it is moderately loud. But with this device, you get cables that can be used to connect two generators for double the power output.
10. Westinghouse Portable Inverter Generator
Westinghouse generator with inverter technology is a good choice if you are looking for a powerful portable device that works quietly, and can provide stable and clean energy for all your sensitive devices. It has a special feature – it is one of the quietest devices on this list.
It weighs only 33 Ibs and has a convenient handle for transport, which is one of the biggest advantages of this model. The Westinghouse generator also has a parallel operation mode that allows you to connect two generators. However, you must buy a parallel cord separately.
This generator is at the bottom of our list due to insufficient customer service and poor quality when it comes to devising management.
If you love camping, you might also want to read this article: 3 Best RV Battery for Boondocking & Dry Camping.
Things To Look For In A Travel Trailer Generator
Before you purchase a generator for RV camping, there are a few things you need to pay attention to:
Noise Level
It is very important that before purchasing a generator, you know how much noise it produces in operation mode since there are camps where the noise level is limited. In fact, some campsites do not allow noise higher than 65 to 68 decibels when it comes to generators. So when buying a generator, it is definitely recommended to take one with a noise rating below 68 decibels.
Power Output
When buying a generator, you should always pay attention to the amount of power that generator can produce. You should know that usually with the help of a generator you will not use all the devices at once but only a few of them like light and in summer the AC system. For example, the Champion model we mentioned has a capacity of 3,800 watts, which is enough to operate the A 1500 BTU AC system in the RV.
Reliability and Durability
The next thing that you need to take into account is the durability and reliability of the generator. Everyone wants a reliable device that will not suddenly fail. Therefore, we recommend that you choose a device with a good warranty from a well-known manufacturer.
Price
In the end, before buying, you must take into account the price. It is clear that generators are more expensive the quieter they are, have more additional options, and can produce more electricity. It is up to you whether it is worth giving more money for any of these benefits. The previously mentioned Champion generator has a good value for the money.
If you have a noisy generator, be sure to read How to Quiet a Generator? 9 Tips To Quiet A Noisy Generator.
Are Portable Generator Worth Buying For an RV?
Buying a portable generator for campers who like to camp in locations outside of classic campsites is definitely worth the money. Of course, you can go on camping without a generator, but it is a good option to have one. When it comes to RV, you need to consider well which option is better for you, a built-in generator or a portable generator.
Also, keep in mind that portable generators offer more flexibility and that you can use it to power devices outside the RV, while built-in generators are more convenient to use. Having a portable generator is very useful, but every camper has its own needs. Before making a decision, be sure to think carefully about your needs.
Related article: How to Charge an RV Battery From Vehicle While Driving.
Final Thoughts
Before you decide to buy a generator, just like with any other major purchase, do full research on what you are buying. Keep in mind that the generator you buy meets all your needs and is suitable for the environment in which you will use it. Generators are expensive devices, but they are understandably highly desirable for camping enthusiasts. If you are the type of camper who usually stays in classic camps, do not forget that you need generators that work quietly. But if you prefer to camp in locations where you have no neighbors, we recommend the Champion generator model, which we consider one of the best
