The best RV generator is listed below with a few options highlighting wattage, portability, noise levels, and fuel sources.
Below those RV generator reviews, we break down a few features you should consider when choosing which generator will best suit your RV, Camper, or Trailer.
First, let’s get right to a list of the top RV generators for those who don’t want to read the actual review:
7. Champion 7500
6. Westinghouse iGen4500
5. Yamaha EF2000iSv2
4.Honda EU2200iS
3. WEN 56200i
2. Cummins Onan 2.5HGJBB-1121
1. Champion 3400
Best RV Generator Reviews
Champion 3400
A larger portable inverter generator that’s quite enough for National Parks (NP), powerful enough for air conditioners, and affordable enough to please your pockets. The Champion 3400 is a fan favorite and the best portable RV generator out there.
It offers 3100 operating watts and can run a 13,500 BTU air conditioner with ease.
It can operate on either gas or propane which gives longer run time with dual fuel ability and keeps fuel cost down.
You can also flip this generator into Economy Mode to reduce fuel consumption, increase engine life, and reduce noise output.
According to the manufacturer, it’s only at 59 decibels from 23 feet, which is still quiet enough to enjoy a nice evening in a national campground.
Champion 3400 Pros and Cons
- Paralled Ready
- Problems reported with propane input valve input and carburetor
- Low Noise
- Dual Fuel
- Runs multiple items at the same time without outages or surges
Cummins Onan 2.5HGJBB-1121
Weighing in at 125 pounds it’s the best Permanent RV Generator made specifically for RVs, gas-powered, and has the best output.
The Cummins Onan has the ability to power a 15,000 BTU air conditioner with ease. It comes with a safe USDA Forest Service-approved spark arrestor internal muffler.
The generator is rated at 68 decibels from 10 feet which still meets NP requirements for sound.
It’s fully enclosed and offers convenient single-sided service, making maintenance a cinch. It also features the unique Cummins Onan sound-attenuating enclosure.
The microprocessor digitally regulates voltage to prevent damage caused by spikes, helping to protect from overloads and faults.
Cummins Onan Props and Cons
- Microprocessor that protects against surges and spikes
- Expensive
- Powered by LP vapor fuel for an energy efficiency
- Stationary/Permanent
- Can run a 15,000 BTU air conditioner
WEN 56200i
Reasonably priced it’s the best 2000w Generator for RVers on a budget. WEN runs louder than more expensive models like Honda
It’s parallel-ready so if you need more than 2,000W, feel free to link two generators together. RVers usually run this side by side with the Yamaha EF2000I
The WEN generator minimizes harmonic distortion and lets RVers safely use laptops, cellphones, tablets, and other vulnerable electronics.
With two three-prong receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, and a 5V USB port, 56200i could power various applications simultaneously.
The EPA-certified 4-stroke OHV engine is strong but it works quietly as well. Especially when on Eco mode.
To protect the integrity of the generator, WEN design 56200i with low-oil and low-fuel automatic shutdown.
WEN 56200i Pros and Cons
- Light and compact
- Internal parts not as high quality
- Portable
- Pure sine wave
- Eco mode reduces noise
Honda EU2200iS
This gasoline ran unit is one of the best 3000 Watt Generators and can run up to 20 hours on a single tank.
The Honda EU2200iS is quieter than some 2000-watt generators.
This small Honda quiet generator provides 3,000 watts of peak power and 2,800 watts of continuous power.
An oil sensor will shut the unit off if the oil is too low, preventing engine damage. It is an inverter generator, meaning it gives off clean and reliable power
Honda EU2200iS Pros and Cons
- Turn-key start
- Pricey
- Quietest in its class: 49 – 58dBA
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Here we have an economical, trailer-ready generator known to be the quietest and Lightest 2000w RV Generators.
The Yamaha comes with a smart throttle, fuel gauge on the operating mechanism, and pulse modulation. This inverter generator boasts about 10 hours at 25 percent load on a single tank.
A few preventative and useful features include a fuel gauge, oil protection system and electrical overload breaker.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Pros and Cons
- Bad customer service
- Inverter system with pulse modulation to avoid putting too much strain on sensitive electronic devices
- Smart Throttle
- Onboard muffler
Westinghouse iGen4500
Westinghouse IGen 4500 is a large and the most powerful generator that can service every electronic in your camper.
With a surge wattage of 4500 peak watts and a running wattage of 3700 running watts. This should be more than enough to power your laptop computers, cell phones, and other devices in your RV. In short, there’s not much it can’t handle, so it makes it on the best RV generator list.
It has an RV port, two 20A household outlets, and 2 USB ports. Clean electricity is safe when running sensitive electronics like:
- Mobile phones
- LCD plasma televisions
- Laptops (RV Wifi Booster Reviews)
- Tablets
- DSLR cameras
You can see why it made the best RV generator list. Not to mention the wheel add another level of portability.
Westinghouse iGen4500 Pros and Cons
- Large fuel tank
- Only Gas
- Not parallel capable
- Delivers unmatched power
- Remote Start
- LED data center
Champion 7500
The Best Heavy Duty Portable Generator out there.
The Champion 7500 has a dual fuel feature. When it’s gas-fueled it starts at 9375 watts. The gas tank holds up to 6 gallons.
When run on propane, it starts at 8400 watts and runs on 6750 watts.
Real-time running hours are up to 8 hours on gas or 5.5 hours on cleaner burning propane.
It also has a built-in Volt Guard surge protector and electric start featuring a battery-operated toggle switch, along with Cold Start Technology.
Champion 7500 Pros and Cons
- Control panel limitaions
- Loud
- Powerful
- Easy to set up
Related: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need For My RV?
How to Connect a Portable Generator to Your RV
Things To Consider When Buying An RV Generator:
Here we go over the different types of RV generators so you know what you are looking for when choosing the best RV generators for you.
Conventional vs Inverter Generator
A conventional generator runs on a simple engine at a regular speed. Some modern electronics are sensitive to surges, so this might not be the best option.
Most generators these days are inverters.
An Inverter generator operates with a microprocessor that regulates and monitors the current that changes the throttle on the engine to produce power for the load carried. It creates a more even current that is easier on your high-end devices such as cell phones and tablets.
Inverter RV generators are more portable and much quieter. Instead of running at a constant rate like conventional generators, inverter generators are more fuel-efficient, since they only work just hard enough to supply the power demanded from them at any given time. Inverter generators are much more fuel-efficient.
Generally speaking, we highly recommend the inverter-style camper generator, even if it does mean spending a few extra bucks.
Noise Level
Noise output matters for you and your fellow camper.
A loud RV generator can make or break your camping experience. You don’t one to be THAT van, fifth wheeler, or travel trailer. RVCampr suggests you grab a generator that produces less than 60 decibels of sound.
As a rule of thumb, the cheaper the generator the louder. Most NPs have rules and regulations based on the amount of noise they are willing to tolerate.
We took the decibel level into consideration when creating the list of RV generator reviews above.
Portable vs Permanent
A permanent generator can be easier to use and is installed directly on your RV and often tie into an onboard fuel source/ backup battery. They can also cost a pretty penny as they are usually installed by a professional.
The portable generators are versatile, smaller, lighter, and can be used for camping, tailgating, or any other backyard activities.
The permanent or onboard applications, on the other hand, are usually more common in Fifth wheels and Class A. It is mainly because these applications are ideal for permanent or long-term usage.
Many noteworthy brands of the best portable RV generator today also provide a parallel capability, making it possible for two units to operate together, supplying two times as much power. This is what the majority of RV owners do to produce adequate power in running their air conditioners in case they choose the portable source of power.
Fuel Type and Consumption
Fuel Consumption:
Another essential factor in picking the best RV generator for your rig is fuel consumption. Keep in mind that higher loads will always deplete your fuel faster than light loads.
You can opt for an eco-mode feature that throttles depending on the demand for power. Open frame generators burn fuel faster than portables ones in most cases
It may be a better investment to buy two portable generators that run parallel because the open frame units operate using consistent higher power output rates.
Gas vs Diesel vs Propane Generators
Gasoline:
The most common of the bunch is gas. It is also the most available and convenient option because most areas have a gas station nearby.
Gas is budget-friendly and you can easily keep reserve fuel. Gas is also highly combustible and has a short shelf life compared to other fuel types.
Many generators offer dual fuel options that allow you to run off gas and propane.
Propane:
Propane is becoming increasingly popular as an RV generator fuel.
One benefit that eco-conscious RV owners will enjoy from a propane generator is that it is a clean-burning generator.
An advantage of a propane ran generator is it runs a lot longer on a single tank than gas or diesel. A disadvantage is that it’s not suitable for full-time RVers.
Diesel:
Diesel burns clean but its generators are often noisier and smellier than other fuels.
This is the most suitable fit for your vehicle if it also runs on diesel, like many Class A motorhomes. This type ensures that you can use both your generator and vehicle using just a single source of fuel.
What is the Quietest Generator for my RV?
Find the best quiet generator for camping here because you might find yourself using your generator near other campers. Not to mention you might want to sleep while the generator is running. It’s important that you find something relatively quiet.
What Size Generator Do I Need for My RV?
2000 to 400 Watts of electricity is what the average RV generator gives out. If you have a small trailer with limited appliances needs, then 2000 watts is more than enough.
On the other hand, if you have more appliances and a large RV you need more power. For the most part, Air Conditioners require bigger generators.
Better safe than sorry.
Surge Watts: also known as Starting Wattage Are the amount of energy needed to start large appliances like an Air Conditioning Unit.
Continuous Watts: Also known as Running or Rated watts which are needed for keeping your appliances up and running. Basically, it’s the most watts your generator is designed to produce continuously.
Will a 2000w Generator Run an Air Conditioner?
Yes, the generator needs to be between 200W and 4000W. Higher is always better because you have to take your other power needs into account, especially when considering the best generator for RV glamping.
Tips: Take Care Of Your New Generator
Store Properly
Keep your generator stored in a dry space, especially during storage during off-seasons. The engines may get damaged when exposed to moisture and weather.
When storing for the winter you want to wipe down the exterior, add a fuel stabilizer, make sure the tank is full, and change the oil. You also want to run it to work the stabilized fuel through the system.
Invest In a Cover
Yes, your generator is used outdoors but leaving it exposed to all types of weather is a mistake. The smallest amount of water leaking through your generator can experience operational failures. We recommend getting a purpose-design generator cover to protect the unit from the elements or any other evil forces.
Get It Serviced Regularly
When you leave your generator idle too long a bunch of things can take place. Fuel lines clog and general engine wear will happen.
Follow your service guidelines for whichever model you choose from the 7 best generators for RVs list above.
Find the Right Spot to Install
You are all set if your RV has a generator tray, you can move to the next generator maintenance tip. For the rest of us, have your generator located in a stable, leveled, sturdy and firm place to mount it without losing support.
You wouldn’t want the unit to fall. You can also build your own tray.
Run It!
Let the generator run often. Regular use is the best way to guarantee proper functionality when you need it. Not to mention, you may find issues ahead of time.
So, even when in storage, pull that baby out at least once a month (put it in a calendar) to ensure it’s operating at its full capacity.
Avoid Depleting Your Fuel Tank
It is crucial to ensure your RV generator contains enough fuel. Generators produce electricity by constantly rotating the magnetic coils along with each other.
So, once the power generators run out of fuel, they stop generating electricity, but devices continue to draw power from them, demagnetizing the coils. The result is a hefty repair bill that likely ruins the budget plan of RVers.
Pay attention to the fuel level and if it gets low, refill the generator tank. Another thing to remember is to secure the tank firmly once you fill it up to minimize its risk of leaking.
Old Fuel is a No, No
Fresh Fuel is essential. Old fuel can cause build-up in the engine and hurt performance. Fuel cycling is another reason running your generator frequently is recommended.
Lubrication
Make sure your generator is adequately lubricated at all times. The more lubrication, the less noise, the lower the noise level, the more peace. Check your manual for the best oil practices for your unit.
Keep The Batteries Clean
Ensure that there is no build-up. Monitor the battery lines and keep them clean.
Related: Best Battery Tender for RVs
There You Have It Folks
The list above highlights the best generators for camping and RVing. We also cleared up a few questions regarding generator size, fuel types, conventional vs inverter generators, and how to connect your generator.
All things considered, we chose the Champion 3400 as the best RV generator.
Safe travels!
