There are so many portable generators available, which makes it hard to find the right one. Most people wonder what size generator they require, and it's hard to answer that question. See our article on the most popular generators on the market in Australia.
In a sense, the size you need is based on wattage, and you must know what you hope to power before you start looking at camping generators. That way, you understand the features available, what you're using it for, and all the rest.
Typically, if you're on a camping trip, you want something that powers a small refrigerator, portable stovetop, and heating/air conditioning devices for the tent.
Let's review the top options to find the best generator for camping. Then, we answer your questions about how much power you need.
Top Inverter Generators on the Market
When you go camping, you want to ensure that you've got all the creature comforts of home. That way, you have multiple power sources to use air conditioning and all the rest. Choosing generators with superior technology ensures that they're energy-efficient and ready for anything. Here are the top options:
Adventure Kings 2.0 KVA Inverter Generator
The Adventure Kings brand of inverter generators is the best budget generator. It features a 2KW continuous power rating and handles a peak power output rating of 2.2KW.
Overall, this could be the best generator for camping because it has enough starting power to get going fast and is well-built and powerful. In fact, it was designed specifically for camping needs.
It's possible to run all of your equipment with it. These include coffee machines, kettles, air conditioners, and microwaves.
You're sure to appreciate that it's the cheapest generator listed here. Overall, the generator features a four-stroke motor, which is highly powerful. You can even adjust the choke to make it easier to start.
If you camp often and like to use small camping equipment, this generator is a must-have because it includes a battery charger. Use the solar panel to charge it or the battery for rainy days! Plus, it is fuel-efficient and runs for a longer period. They are often better than traditional options.
The good news is you don't have to deal with equipment damage. It runs on sine wave power, uses clean power, and is safe to use.
In fact, you can run two types of devices or equipment at the same time. If there's a high power load, it gives a warning sign and blinks lights. Then, it automatically shuts off!
What size generator is needed? It depends on what you're running, but this one has a fuel capacity to hold 4.1 liters. With that, there's an in-built auto-switch mode, so it adjusts the motor speed while running equipment to reduce noise and save fuel.
It's also easy to service this generator. Buy oil and air filters at any car parts store!
Honda 2.2 KVA Inverter Generator
Those who want the best camping generator are sure to appreciate the Honda 2.2 KVA one, as long as money isn't a concern. This is a top-quality generator and features 2200 watts, making it suitable for home backup, job sites, and camping.
With it, you can power microwaves, hairdryers, toasters, and charge laptops and phones with ease. Plus, it works quietly!
All Honda models feature a 4-year warranty. Plus, this one includes an in-built eco-throttle to make it fuel-efficient. With that, the oil filling area is large to improve the draining needs.
Overall, this inverter generator includes a four-stroke power engine, so it's bigger than other models. Plus, you can use it for up to eight hours with the eco-throttle turned on.
You may also use this generator to power your caravan air conditioners, as well as other accessories. Of all the popular generators on the market, this is one of the best for camping trips.
What size generator do you require? It really depends on how much power you need. Most generators handle a few things at the same time, but this one can provide power to an entire camper trailer if necessary.
Engel 2000W Inverter Generator
The Engel 2000W is the best generator for camping and comes at an affordable price. Overall, these inverter generators are known for having the best quality without breaking the bank.
What size generator do you need? Well, this one can do just about anything and has the features you want. In fact, you get a 4.8-liter fuel capacity, which operates for seven hours at 50 percent rates. This product is ideal for camping, but it can also be used at market stalls, mobile businesses, and as a home backup.
In a sense, the best generators feature a long warranty, and this one doesn't disappoint at four years. If you find issues or defects, you may replace it.
You get overload protection with this product. That means the generator stops working automatically if you're operating too many things at once. No damage comes to the machine.
You're sure to appreciate the 100 percent pure sine wave. This is a modern four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled generator. It has tons of start-up power and gets running with a single pull.
This is a lightweight and compact machine, so you can carry it around with you. Plus, it has a noise output of about 68 decibels, making it very quiet to run.
Yamaha 2200W Inverter Generator
Overall, the Yamaha brand could have one of the best generators for camping. It offers the perfect balance of portability and power. In fact, this version is better than the older generator model.
It's lighter and more compact, so you can carry it just about anywhere. Plus, it doesn't take up a lot of space, but the generator is powerful and can handle your electric devices and equipment. In fact, it features a 12-V DC power outlet.
The inverter generators from Yamaha offer a 3A MP output, making it easy to charge your devices. There's also a USB port built into it. We also have an article explaining what is an inverter generator.
You can use the port to power air pumps, portable coolers, and more. Plus, it features a maximum running time of 10.5 hours, even with a full load!
There's even an instant restart button. If there's an overload, it starts itself back up when the problem is corrected.
You're sure to appreciate the LED indicator light on this small generator. It's easy to view the status, and the buttons illuminate in the dark.
When you need more power, just tap the boost feature! Overall, this generator is great for outdoor enthusiasts and campers. You even get a security cable and cover!
What size generator do you need? This one should be enough to power up everything, where other generators can't. It even helps you get air conditioning in your tent or camper trailer!
Overall, these inverter generators offer outstanding quality and performance because they're well-built.
The recoil starter is flush with the generator's body, so there's no damage or scratches to your surfaces or furniture. With that, this generator prevents leaks because it includes a fuel-drain switch. You can drain out all the fuel before you store away the machine. In a sense, it ensures that the generator doesn't burn off extra fuel. A standard generator doesn't do that!
Hyundai HY2000Si Inverter Camping Generator
The Hyundai inverter generator is quite simple to operate and comes with a maximum output of 2,000 watts. Plus, it's very quiet and has a high volume of just 58 decibels. You probably can't even hear it running!
Be confident about this generator because it's reliable, clean, and quiet. You can use it as a home backup system, in a caravan, or for camping. In fact, some people use it during home emergencies when the power goes out!
This portable generator has a recoil starter with a small displacement engine. It comes with an appropriate caravan hook-up lead and your 12-volt charging cable.
With it, you get a large carrying handle, making it easy to store and carry this compact and lightweight generator. There's also a 1-year warranty, so you can replace any damaged parts. It also has a three-pin socket, making it suitable for Australian outlets.
The exterior is solid and tough. Therefore, it protects from scratches, regardless of where you take it.
In fact, the generator produces a pure sine wave, so you can use it for lighting and refrigerators. It also works well for sensitive equipment, such as a smartphone, TV, laptop, or tablet.
This machine features digital overload protection. It automatically shuts off if there's low oil or you put too many things on it at once.
Plus, you don't have to worry about damage to the equipment. This generator shuts itself off!
The LED display ensures that you can read the status of the small camping generator. Plus, it shows all the performance monitoring metrics you need!
With this generator, you get a fuel capacity of 3.8 liters. Plus, it includes a four-stroke engine, so it's easy to start and ready for action when you are. Depending on what you're powering, it can run for eight hours with the fuel topped up.
In the eco-mode setting, you can save fuel and reduce engine revolutions. That can extend your generator's life. Plus, you only have to add petrol; there's no need to mix it with oil first!
Maxwatt 2000W Yamaha Inverter Generator
The Maxwatt Yamaha inverter generator offers a stable and clean power output. In fact, it operates on a pure sine wave power and can be used for sensitive equipment.
Overall, it is an excellent generator for camping because it's safe to use with all of your electronics, such as smartphones, televisions, laptops, and computers. Use it for camping or as a home backup system!
The Maxwatt Yamaha is a must-have for those who go on various adventures. The powerful four-stroke engine features digital inverter technology. Therefore, it gives a stable voltage and offers more efficiency!
This generator offers a peak power of 2000 W with a continuous power rating of 1600 W. Plus, it operates at low noises of just 59 decibels! You're sure to appreciate the engine control system because it reduces the engine speed depending on your fuel efficiency requirements and load size.
One good thing about this product is that you can connect two of the same generators together without another purchase because it features parallel functionality and has a connection cord.
With that, it operates for about 6.5 hours at 50 percent load and comes with a fuel capacity of 4 liters. In fact, the generator runs at 100 percent load for four hours total. It's also easy to carry and operate with the easy-start recoil.
You get a 2-year warranty on this generator. In fact, it's well-designed, and if you have to call in, you get great customer service.
There's also a 5V 2.1-amp USB charging area. The generator comes with a fuel pipe, fuel tank filter, air filter, and spark plug!
Other generators we recommend are the Cromtech range, Gentrax, and the Briggs & Stratton generator range.
Buyer's Guide
Before you can buy a generator, you need to know what size you require. It's often hard to judge that. If you buy one without enough power, you can't use all the things you want. However, if it's too high, you're wasting energy.
Generally, a 2000-watt or 2200-watt generator is the best choice because it powers up everything you require.
Ultimately, there are other factors to consider when purchasing a generator. Though you don't have to hire a professional installer, you must think about durability, safety features, and parallel capabilities. You can learn about all that below!
Toughness
When you look at a camping generator, think about its build quality. It's always best to go with a well-built and sturdy generator. They often give better performances throughout their lifespan, and the motor stays protected while it's running for longer periods.
Engel, Honda, and Yamaha brands are the most reputable and popular generator engines in Australia. Though they might be a bit more expensive, they're long-lasting, which makes them worth it.
That's not to say that inexpensive models aren't just as hard-wearing. Check the construction and materials used to make the machine. This can tell you almost everything you want to know about how strong it is and how it can withstand the test of time (and the elements).
Installation
It's actually become quite easy to use smaller inverter generators. Before you buy one, it's best to look at the installation procedure. You can find this information on the manufacturer's website or by searching for the model number with “manual” behind it.
Check it out to make sure you understand how to set up your new generator. That way, you're not spending hours installing it when you want to get out there and enjoy your outdoor adventure.
Consider reading the reviews from each model, too. Most people complain about generators that are hard to install or set up. You can learn much about them to determine what the process might be like for you.
Safety Features
Before you buy a generator for camping, you need to look at its safety features. If you want to power sensitive devices, it should be very reliable and run on clean power.
Check to see if your generator has the overload protection built in. That way, if it's running and trying to power too many things, it automatically shuts itself off. This also works if there's little fuel left.
These things are crucial to prevent damage to your devices and equipment.
Noise
The noise level the generator produces is also crucial to think about. The wattage and power source determine the noise level of your inverter generator. Most manufacturers also list the volume level in decibels (dB).
An inverter generator running on diesel makes more noise than those running on petrol or other fuel sources. Most portable generators include special mufflers that are built-in to absorb more noise.
In a sense, you want the generator to be as quiet as it can be. Some generators use special features to keep noise levels down. They include enclosed casings, noise-level suppression, build quality, and rubber isolation feet.
If you don't want a generator that makes a lot of noise, look for one that runs quietly. Generally, these include models that have a 60-decibel rating or lower.
Parallel Capability
Sometimes, you might want to connect two generators and must think about parallel connectivity. Most models offer a parallel connection to produce more power and use more equipment.
It's possible to buy connection cables separately if your generator doesn't have one. That way, when you're camping with friends, you each have a generator and can put them together to give more power than if they ran separately.
Power Output Quality
The output quality is crucial when looking for camping generators. You are bound to use sensitive electronic equipment and require clean power to use them.
Also, check the peak power output, which might be lower than what you get from it. A 2200-watt engine is the peak amount; you may only get 1600 if you're running the generator at 50 percent load.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Most inverter generators are efficient when it comes to fuel capacity. To know if yours is, you should look at how long it operates continuously. A larger fuel tank is also good here.
Size and Weight
Make sure that you check the weight and size of your inverter generator. Usually, they weigh about 20 to 25 kg. That makes them compact so that you can carry them to campsites or while you're out adventuring.
One good thing about these generators is that they can be put farther away from the campsite to reduce noise problems.
Warranty
It's better to check the warranty period before you buy anything. Most generators offer a long-term warranty. If it's got a 2-year warranty or something longer, you can expect it to be long-lasting and reliable.
FAQs
What Size Generator Should You Get for Camping?
The size generator you need for camping depends on how you use it. If you want something to charge a smartphone, your requirements are different.
However, some people want to power laptops, inflate tyres (see our Dr Air review), and mini-fridges, as well as other things. Here's a list of the power used for various things:
- Coffee maker – 900w
- Hairdryer – 1000W
- Toaster – 1150W
- Mini-fridge – 700W (running) 2200W (starting)
- Portable air conditioner – 600W (running)
- LCD TV – 50-100W
- Laptop – 30W
- Mobile phones – 6W
Therefore, it's best to note how much power you need before purchasing the best generator.
Remember, large appliances require more power output. If you're powering laptops and mini-fridges, you need a 1000W output.
Those who need to power multiple devices should have a 2000w minimum, and 3000W might be better.
What Can be Run on a 2000W Generator?
Every device and piece of equipment is different and needs different power amounts. The size generator you need depends on that. However, a 2000-watt portable generator is the most popular because it's easy to carry, compact, and has convenient power outlets. Overall, they're more efficient and lighter than traditional generators.
The 2000-watt generator offers 16 amps for 120 volts. Here's a rough estimate of commonly used equipment:
- Small power tools – 800W
- Small air conditioner – 1200W minimum
- Mini-freezer – 700W
- Phone charger – 5W
- Television – 200W
- Laptop – 50W
- Toaster or microwave – 1000W
- Portable light sources – 500W
In a sense, you can power up all of your electrical equipment with one 2000W generator, but not simultaneously!
What's the Quietest Generator for Camping?
Generators produce the power while camping and can make a lot of noise. Some campsites have noise limitations, and the owners might require you to turn yours off so that people can sleep.
Therefore, it's best to get the right generator and use these tips:
- Place it further away from your campsite
- Adding rubber feet to the bottom
- Check generator volume levels before buying
Conclusion
After reading about the top six generators for camping, you should have a better idea of what size generator you need.
Overall, the Honda 2 KVA Inverter Generator is ultimately the best generator available right now. However, if you want something less expensive, Adventure King could be the right choice. Those who want something “in the middle” might prefer the Engel brand.
Happy camping!
