Best Small Generator For Camping (2024 Updated)

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When it comes to camping, having a reliable source of power can make all the difference. Whether you need to charge your phone or power your camping stove, a small generator can come in handy. However, with so many options available, finding the best small generator for camping can be overwhelming. To help you narrow down your search, here are five key points to consider:

1. Portability: Since you'll be taking your generator with you on camping trips, it's important to choose one that is lightweight and easy to transport.

2. Power output: Consider the wattage of the generator and ensure that it can provide enough power for your needs. For example, if you plan on using it to power large appliances, you'll need a higher wattage generator.

3. Fuel type: Small generators can run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Consider which fuel type will be most convenient for you and ensure that you have access to it on your camping trips.

4. Noise level: Generators can be noisy, which can be a problem if you're camping in a quiet area. Look for generators that have a low noise level or come with noise-reducing features.

5. Price: Small generators can vary greatly in price, so it's important to consider your budget and choose a generator that offers the best value for your money.

By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be able to find the best small generator for camping that meets your specific needs and budget.

10 Best Small Generator For Camping

1. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 With 2x Solarsaga 100w Panels, 3x 1000w Ac Outlets – Portable Power Station For Home Backup, Emergency, Rv, And Camping.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a powerful and reliable portable power station that provides clean and unlimited solar energy. With 1002Wh capacity and two SolarSaga 100W solar panels, it's perfect for outdoor camping, home backup, and emergency situations.

The smart MPPT controller ensures optimal charging efficiency, and the power station can be fully charged within 6 hours using the solar panels or 5.5 hours via an AC wall outlet. Setup is quick and easy, taking only 60 seconds from start to finish.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is designed with safety and reliability in mind. It features industry-leading cylindrical batteries that meet UL safety standards and are certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test. The pure sine wave inverter delivers constant voltage that protects equipment from damage.

With eight outlets, including three AC outlets, one USB-A, one USB-A quick charge 3.0, two USB-C PD, and one car outlet, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 can power 90% of home appliances. It's ideal for outdoor off-grid activities and home backup power to power refrigerators, TVs, mini coolers, electric grills, fans, and more.

Despite its large capacity, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is quiet and produces very little noise. It supports pass-through charging, which means its battery life is protected even when charging other devices.

In addition to the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station, this product comes with two SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels, an AC adapter, a car charger cable, a SolarSaga Parallel Adapter, and user manuals.

Overall, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a must-have for anyone who needs a reliable and portable power source for their outdoor adventures, home backup power, or emergency situations.

2. Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight

The Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an ultra-lightweight and efficient solution for all your power needs. Weighing in at only 39 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters in the industry, making it easy to transport and move around. It comes fully assembled with hassle-free setup, and the built-in carrying handle makes transport a cinch.

Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a quiet and comfortable camping or tailgating experience. With a noise level of only 53 dBA from 23 feet, this inverter is perfect for backup power for a few home essentials.

This inverter features 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts and up to 11.5 hours run time when the 1.1-gallon tank of gasoline is full at 25% load. It includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD), ensuring that your sensitive electronics are protected.

One of the standout features of this inverter is its parallel ready functionality. The optional clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2500-watt Champion inverter to double your output power, making it an ideal choice for those who need more power.

Champion provides excellent customer support for their products. This inverter comes with a 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts, giving you peace of mind knowing that you can rely on the product and the company to help you with any issues that may arise.

In summary, the Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a reliable and efficient solution for all your power needs. Its lightweight design, quiet operation, clean power, and parallel ready functionality make it an ideal choice for those who need power on-the-go. With excellent customer support and a 3-year limited warranty, you can trust that you are getting a high-quality product that will meet your needs for years to come.

3. Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station – 293wh Lithium Backup Battery With 110v/300w Ac Outlet For Camping, Travel, And Emergencies (Black)

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a reliable and efficient power source for outdoor activities, emergencies, and travel. This product features a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack that can deliver safe and steady 300W power through two Pure Sine Wave AC outlets.

One of the key advantages of the Explorer 300 is its rechargeability. It can be charged through a wall outlet and a 60W PD USB-C port simultaneously, allowing for quick and efficient charging. Additionally, it can be recharged using an AC adapter at home or through the car outlet while on a road trip. For outdoor adventures, the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel is a great option, as it can recharge the power station using green energy.

The Explorer 300 is designed to meet various power needs. It features two AC outlets, a PD 60W USB-C port (input/output supported), a fast charge 3.0 port, a USB-A port, and a DC car port. This allows for up to six devices to be charged simultaneously, including drones, cameras, and laptops.

Weighing only 7.1 pounds, the Explorer 300 is lightweight and easy to carry. It is an ideal portable power source for camping, hunting, travel, and blackout situations. The integrated MPPT controller enables the solar generator set to operate at its maximum power point, which speeds up the battery recharge process.

In addition to the power station, the package includes an AC adapter, a car charger cable, and a user guide. With its fast charging capabilities, multiple charging ports, and compatibility with solar panels, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a versatile and reliable power source for all your outdoor and emergency power needs.

4. Wen 56235i Portable Inverter Generator: Super Quiet, 2350-Watt, Carb Compliant, Fuel Shut Off, Ultra Lightweight, Black.

The WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a must-have for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient power source for their outdoor activities. This generator is designed to provide clean and safe power for sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions, and computers, making it an ideal choice for camping trips, tailgating, or outdoor events.

One of the main features of this generator is its ultralight body which weighs only 39 pounds, making it easy to transport and store. This is a significant advantage for those who need to move the generator from one location to another, as it eliminates the need for heavy lifting or bulky equipment.

The WEN 56235i is also incredibly quiet, with noise levels comparable to a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. This makes it an excellent choice for use in residential areas or campsites where noise restrictions may apply.

In terms of power output, the WEN 56235i produces 2350 surge watts and 1900 rated watts of clean power. This means that it is capable of powering multiple devices simultaneously, without the risk of damaging sensitive electronics. Additionally, the generator features a fuel shutoff mechanism that maximizes its lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down.

The WEN 56235i also comes equipped with two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, and two 5V USB ports. This allows users to charge multiple devices at once, making it an excellent choice for outdoor events or emergency situations.

Finally, the WEN 56235i comes with a two-year warranty, providing users with peace of mind knowing that they are protected against any defects or malfunctions during this period.

Overall, the WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient power source. Its ultralight body, quiet operation, and multiple power outlets make it an ideal choice for outdoor activities or emergency situations.

5. Togopower 1000w Gasoline Portable Generator For Home And Camping Use, Carb Certified.

The TogoPower Portable Generator is an excellent backup generator for home use, job sites, and outdoor activities such as camping. With a starting power of 1000W and a running power of 800W, this gasoline-powered generator can support small household appliances such as blenders, coffee pots, blow dryers, fans, lamps, and more. Additionally, it features a 120V AC output voltage.

This generator uses 90# Petrol & Oil mixing (50:1) to provide you with power on the go. It can run for up to six hours at 50% load when the 1.1-gallon tank is full. The reliable 63cc two-stroke OHV air-cooled engine can provide plenty of power to handle all kinds of appliances.

Weighing only 35 lbs, this generator is easy to use and move around. Therefore, you and your family don't have to worry about power consumption outdoors. It is also easy to carry thanks to its ergonomic handle. The portable and lightweight design makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or any outdoor activity that requires power.

The TogoPower Portable Generator is also easy to start. It features a manual recoil start, and the primer bulb makes it easy to start in cold weather. The generator also comes with a spark arrestor, making it safe to use in national parks and forests.

The TogoPower Portable Generator is also CARB-certified, which means it complies with the Clean Air Act of the United States. This certification ensures that the generator meets the emissions standards established by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which is the most stringent in the country.

In addition to its excellent features, the TogoPower Portable Generator comes with a one-year after-sales warranty service. The company stands behind their product and supports their customers with any issues or concerns they might have.

Overall, the TogoPower Portable Generator is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient backup generator for home use, job sites, or outdoor activities. Its lightweight and portable design, along with its powerful engine, make it a great investment for anyone who needs power on the go.

6. Helly-Hansen Unisex Generator Backpack, 990 Black, One Size

The Helly-Hansen Unisex Generator Backpack in the color 990 Black and one size is an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, climbing, and mountaineering. It is also suitable for urban and city life, commuting, and winter activities.

This backpack features a top front pocket with soft fabric lining, an expandable front stuff pocket, and a main compartment that is accessible through a large U-shaped opening. It is hydration compatible with an internal hydration sleeve and hanger loop, making it easy to stay hydrated on the go.

In addition, the Generator Backpack has a webbing daisy chain on the front, a reflective webbing attachment point for a light, and stretch mesh hip belt pockets with zippered closure. The fully adjustable harness system and adjustable sternum strap with whistle ensure a comfortable fit, while the side compression straps allow for easy adjustment of the load.

The backpack's webbing carry handle provides a convenient way to transport it when not wearing it on the back. The backpack is versatile and suitable for various outdoor activities, including off-piste, side country, freeride, resort, on piste, alpine, backcountry, randonee, ski touring, and mountaineering.

Overall, the Helly-Hansen Unisex Generator Backpack is a top-quality backpack that is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who wants a reliable, comfortable backpack for everyday use. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it a great choice for those who demand the best in outdoor gear.

7. Grecell 300w Portable Power Station With 288wh Lithium Battery, 60w Usb-C Pd Output, And Pure Sine Wave Ac Outlet For Outdoor And Home Use (600w Surge)

The Portable Power Station 300W by GRECELL is the perfect solution for all your outdoor and indoor power needs. With a huge capacity of 288Wh and an output of 330W (600W surge), this power station can power most of your electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, phones, lights, fans, CPAP medical devices, projectors, TV, mini-refrigerator, speaker, and camera, rated power less than 330W. Despite its large capacity, the power station is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for camping, car trips, and other family outings.

One of the key features of this power station is the upgraded Battery Management System (BMS). The use of high-quality lithium batteries ensures that the power station is safe to use and poses no risk to life. The BMS provides built-in overload, overcharge, and short-circuit protection, ensuring that your devices are protected at all times. Additionally, the dual built-in silent cooling fans help to keep the station's temperature safe, preventing any overheating issues.

The GRECELL power station comes equipped with a USB-C PD 60W output, a USB-A QC 18W output, and an AC outlet, allowing you to power up to eight devices simultaneously as long as they draw less than 330W combined. The PD60W fast charging feature makes it possible to charge Android and iPhone, tablets, and laptops quickly, more than twice as fast as other standard USB-C output, and ultra-high efficiency in emergencies. The USB-A ports are also quick-charge 3.0 18W, providing higher efficiency for each device.

The power station can be charged using three different methods – via an AC outlet, a solar panel, or a car outlet. The built-in MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking Control) enables the power station to extract the maximum power from the solar panel, optimizing the utilization of variable power sources like a solar generator.

In summary, the Portable Power Station 300W by GRECELL is a reliable and powerful backup power source that can be used in various situations, including outdoor camping, travel, hunting, and home blackout. Its large capacity, multiple outputs, and efficient charging capabilities make it an excellent investment for those who need a reliable power source on the go.

Best Small Generator For Camping FAQs

How much power do I need from a small generator for camping?

The amount of power needed from a small generator for camping depends on the electrical appliances and devices that will be used. A small generator with a capacity of 1000 to 2000 watts is sufficient for basic needs such as charging phones, powering LED lights, and running a small refrigerator.

If you plan to use larger appliances such as air conditioners, electric stoves or heaters, then a generator with a capacity of 3000 to 5000 watts is required. It is important to note that the larger the generator, the heavier and noisier it will be.

When selecting a generator, consider fuel efficiency and noise levels to ensure a pleasant camping experience. Solar-powered generators are also an eco-friendly option for campers who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Always follow safety guidelines when using generators and store fuel in a safe, cool and dry place.

What are the top-rated small generators for camping?

There are several top-rated small generators for camping. The Honda EU2200i is a popular choice among campers due to its quiet operation and fuel efficiency. It also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to transport. The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is another popular option, known for its quiet operation and long run time. It also has a smart throttle feature that adjusts the engine speed to match the load, improving fuel efficiency. The WEN 56200i is a budget-friendly option that still offers reliable power and quiet operation. It has a compact design and is easy to carry, making it a great choice for camping trips. Other top-rated small generators for camping include the Briggs & Stratton P2200, Champion 2000-Watt, and Westinghouse iGen2200.

What features should I consider when choosing a small generator for camping?

When choosing a small generator for camping, there are several features to consider. First, the size and weight of the generator should be suitable for easy transport and storage. Second, the fuel efficiency and run time are important, as you want a generator that will last for the duration of your camping trip. A quiet operation is also crucial to avoid disturbing wildlife and other campers. Inverter generators are particularly suited for camping, as they produce clean energy that won't harm sensitive electronics. Some additional features to consider include the number and type of outlets, as well as any safety features such as overload protection or low-oil shutoff. Finally, it's important to consider the generator's price and overall value for your specific camping needs.

What is the most fuel-efficient small generator for camping?

The most fuel-efficient small generator for camping would be an inverter generator. Inverter generators are designed to produce clean and stable power, making them ideal for powering sensitive electronics like laptops, phones, and other gadgets. They are also very fuel-efficient, thanks to their ability to adjust their engine speed based on the power load, which helps to reduce fuel consumption and noise levels.

One of the best inverter generators for camping is the Honda EU2200i. This generator is very compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store. It produces a maximum output of 2,200 watts and can run for up to 8 hours on a single tank of gas. It is also very quiet, producing only 48 decibels of noise at a quarter load.

Overall, if you're looking for a small generator that is fuel-efficient, reliable, and quiet, then an inverter generator like the Honda EU2200i is the way to go.

What is the quietest small generator for camping?

The quietest small generator for camping is the Yamaha EF2000iSv2. It operates at 51 decibels, which is comparable to the sound level of a normal conversation. This generator uses an inverter system and advanced muffling technology to keep noise levels low. It is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and store.

Other options for quiet small generators for camping include the Honda EU2200i and the WEN 56200i. Both of these generators operate at around 55 decibels and also use inverter technology to reduce noise levels. The Honda EU2200i is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, while the WEN 56200i is more affordable and offers a range of output options.

Overall, choosing a quiet small generator for camping depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors such as noise level, fuel efficiency, and portability to find the best option for your camping trip.

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