If you are a travel freak and loves wandering around to new places, then having an RV travel can be a good choice for you. Such trips with a home-like comfort allow you to be in the fresh air, at the same time not compromising with your convenience of lodging and all. It’s an awesome way to spend some quality time with your friends and family and developing a nice bond. Wondering what is the best RV generator to buy?
Here we have prepared a list of Top 10 best generators for RVs keeping various features, technology, reliability and other customers experience of the product in mind.
When it comes to RV various things are needed to be taken care of. You need to have a backup power source with you in case you run out of power or in case of emergencies.
Choosing the right generator for your RV becomes inevitable to enjoy your journeys without any fuss and worries. So, having a reliable and durable RV generator can prove to be very beneficial, making a huge difference in your camping trips.
Top 10 Best Generators for RVs in 2023
- Champion 3500-Watt-RV Ready Portable Generator
- Yamaha EF2400iSHC
- Westinghouse iGen2500
- Champion Power Equipment 100263
- Westinghouse WGen2000 Portable Generator
- DS4000S Gas-powered Portable RV Generator
- Generac 6866 iQ2000 Inverter Generator
- Sportsman GEN4000DF RV Generator
- DuroMax XP4400E Portable RV Generator
- WEN 56475 Gasoline Powered Portable Generator
1. Champion 3500-Watt – RV Ready Portable Generator
Champion 3500 is one of the best portable generators for RV camping. It comes with a Wireless Remote Start that enables you to start and stop the generator conveniently from up to 80 feet away. This a powerful and reliable generator that produces 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts, offering you the Run time up to 12 hours on a full tank of gasoline.
Furthermore, its amazing Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather. One thing is guaranteed that versatility and power are yours if you bring home Champion 3500-watt portable generator.
Looking for the best generator for RV air conditioner? This generator is best suitable for RVs and will provide you with enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner. Also, next time whenever you have an outage its 196 cc Champion single-cylinder OHV engine will produce the power you need to back up all of your home appliances.
It comes with plenty of outlets including a 120V 30A locking outlet, a 120V 30A RV outlet, and a 120V 20A household outlet. The fuel tank is 3.8-Gallons and its volume level is around 68 dBA, which is almost as loud as a vacuum cleaner.
Other cool features about this generator are its built-in Volt Guard surge protector which prevents overloads and also low oil shut-off sensor that keeps the device safe and saves money.
Key Features
• RV Ready
• Intelligauge
• Cold Start Technology
• Low oil shut-off
• Wireless Remote Start
• Volt Guard surge protector
• EPA & CARB Compliant
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 3500W |
| Starting Wattage | 4000 W |
| Starting Type | Wireless, Electric, Recoil |
| Engine Size | 196 cc |
| Noise Level | 68 dBA |
| Fuel tank capacity | 3.8 gal. |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 12 hours |
| Dimensions | 22.8 x 22 x 30.7 in. |
| Weight | 140 pounds |
What’s included?
- Spark plug tool
- Oil Funnel
- 3-year limited warranty
2. Yamaha EF2400iSHC
Yamaha EF2400iSHC is one of the best RV generators for the money. It is capable of running most 13,500 BTU RV air conditioners, microwave, ovens, and even the biggest hair blow dryer.
This generator has the longest emission engine durability ratings that are issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board.
With improved air conditioner starting and increased motor starting capability this generator provides clean power and adjusts the engine speed to accurately match the load, featuring Yamaha’s Smart Throttle System.
One of the other cool thing that we really like about this generator is its Oil Watch Warning System that helps to prevent engine damage from low oil, ensuring safety and making things more convenient for you.
Weighing only 75 pounds this compact and powerful generator is easy to move around, hence, is best suited for camping, and RVs.
Key Features
- High power output
- Smart Throttle System
- Oil Watch Warning System
- Pulse Width Modulation
- Fuel gauge
- Aluminum die-cast frame
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single fuel |
| Running Wattage | 2000 W |
| Starting Wattage | 2400 W |
| Engine Size | 171 cc |
| Noise Level | 53 – 60 dBA |
| Fuel tank capacity | 1.6 gal |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 11 hours |
| Dimensions | 20.8 x 16.5 x 18.2 in |
| Weight | 75 pounds |
What’s included?
- User’s Manual
3. Westinghouse iGen2500- Best RV Inverter Generator
Westinghouse iGen2500 runs as low as 52 dBA, so you won’t be expecting much noise from this machine. It produces 2200 Rated Watts and 2500 Peak Watts at less than 3% THD.
This extremely lightweight, compact and well-designed generator only weighs around 48 lbs, while featuring a built-in carry handle that ensures convenient transportation.
Inverter Technology is safe for electronics and can be an excellent choice for home use and also as an emergency backup during power outages.
It has Parallel Cable Technology that allows you to connect two generators at the same time using Westinghouse Inverter generator parallel cord, which increases the wattage and amperage, resulting in increased output. Amazing, right?
Furthermore, it features Efficiency Mode for maximum Fuel Efficiency and offers you a Run Time of up to 10 hours on a 1 Gallons fuel tank.
The rotating digital display, known as the Led data center is a kind of digital display that shows fuel level, remaining run time, power output, and voltage output.
You can buy this generator with full confidence, since it is EPA, USFS, and CARB Compliant, and also comes with a 3-year Warranty.
Key Features
- Parallel Capable
- Quiet operation
- LED Data Center
- Efficiency Mode
- Up to 10 hours Run Time
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single fuel inverter generator |
| Running Wattage | 2200 W |
| Starting Wattage | 2500 W |
| Engine Size | 98 cc |
| Noise Level | 52 dBA |
| Fuel tank capacity | 1 Gallon |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 10 hours |
| Dimensions | 19.7 x 11.22 x 17.91 in |
| Weight | 48 pounds |
What’s included?
- Oil Funnel
- Spark plug wrench
- Oil
- Quick Start Guide
4. Champion Power Equipment 100263
Champion 10023 features Dual Fuel Technology allowing you to run the generator on either gasoline or propane. It includes a 50-amp RV Ready outlet and has enough power to run two 15,000 BTU RV air conditioners, which makes it one of the best generator for RV air conditioner. With a fuel tank of 1.6-Gallons, it offers you the Run Time of up to 7.5 hours on gasoline and 14.5 hours on propane.
This is a versatile generator featuring various amazing things and tools, which makes it an ideal generator whether you need power for your home, RV, tailgating, camping or other purposes.
It produces Clean Power, so you can connect your sensitive devices with full confidence and also the low oil shut-off sensor ensures the safety even more.
Talking about the noise level, the generator operates at 59 dBA from 23 feet which is almost same as the volume level of a normal conversation. So, take your machine with you wherever you want, without disturbing the surroundings and neighbours.
Need more power? The other amazing thing about this generator is its Parallel Capability which allows you to connect two generators at the same time, resulting in almost double output.
It is one of the best generators for travel trailers. Since the generator comes with built-in handles and never-flat tires you don’t have to worry much about moving around a heavy bulky machine. The unit is specially designed keeping in mind your convenience and is easy to transport.
Key Features
- Dual Fuel Technology
- RV Ready
- Parallel Capable
- Economy Mode
- Touch Start
- Clean Power
- Never-flat tires
- Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Dual Fuel |
| Gasoline Running Wattage | 3100 W |
| Gasoline Starting Wattage | 3400 W |
| Propane Running Wattage | 2790 W |
| Propane Starting Wattage | 3060 W |
| Start Type | Electric, Recoil |
| Engine Size | 192 cc |
| Noise Level | 59 dBA |
| Fuel tank capacity | 1.6 Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline or Propane |
| Run Time at 1/4 Load | 7.5 hrs(gas) & 14.5 hrs(LPG) |
| Dimensions | 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 in |
| Weight | 95.7 lbs |
What’s included?
- Propane Hose
- USB adapter
- Battery
5. Westinghouse WGen2000 Portable Generator
With 2000 Running Watts and 2500 Peak Watts, Westinghouse WGen2000 offers you a Run Time of up to 20 hours per tank of gas. That’s great, right?
Its 212cc Westinghouse OHV Engine with Cast Iron Sleeve is a complete powerhouse and is ideal for generating power in remote areas, in case of emergencies and home back up power.
Featuring an intuitive control panel with a hard steel frame with roll bars helps to protect the fuel tank and is sophisticatedly designed. WGen2000 becomes a reliable and convenient choice wherever you go due to its lightweight and compact design.
Furthermore, it comes with plenty of outlets to run your essentials and is a plug-and-play portable generator, awesome for those who want to do projects around the house, camping, RVs, tailgating and many other things.
Also, this generator is EPA, CSA, CARB Compliant and comes with a 3-year warranty, so you can buy it with confidence
Key Features
- 4-Gallons Fuel tank
- Plug-and-play
- 4-Stroke OHV Engine
- EPA, CSA, CARB Compliant
- Intuitive Operation
- Up to 20 hours Run Time
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 2000 W |
| Starting Wattage | 2500 W |
| Engine Size | 212 cc |
| Engine Type | 4-stroke OHV Engine |
| Fuel tank capacity | 4 Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 20 hours |
| Dimensions | 23.23 x 17.52 x 18.7 in. |
| Weight | 90.6 lbs |
What’s included?
- Tool Kit
- Oil
- Funnel
- User’s Manual
6. DuroStar DS4000S Gas-powered Portable RV Generator
One thing that anyone can instantly notice about DuroStar DS4000S is its heavy-duty steel frame which clearly showcases the durability of this generator.
Having an air-cooled OHV engine, it produces 4,000 starting watts and 3,300 running watts, which makes this a workhorse that offers plenty of power to handle various jobs from powering high voltage appliances to heavy-duty power tools.
This Beast is capable of using unleaded gas while also having a 4-Gallons fuel tank. You can enjoy the Run Time of up to 8 hours at 50% load.
You’ll feel satisfied with the versatility of this generator as it is useful in a wide range of applications and purposes, from getting you through a power outage to going for camping, tailgating parties, and recreational vehicle travels. Carry your powerhouse with you wherever you want!
Furthermore, features like low-oil shutdown and surge protector ensure the safety of your machine.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- 208 cc OHV engine
- 8 hours Run Time
- Recoil start
- Super quiet Muffler
- Power Panel
- Voltmeter
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 3300 W |
| Starting Wattage | 4000 W |
| Engine Size | 208 cc |
| Start Type | Recoil |
| Noise Level | 69 dBA |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4 Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 8 hours |
| Dimensions | 24 x 17 x 17 in. |
| Weight | 94 lbs |
What’s included?
- Tool Set
- Spark plug wrench
- Oil Funnel
- Owner’s Manual
7. Generac 6866 iQ2000 Inverter Generator
Looking for a quiet and reliable travel generator? If yes, then Generac 6866 iQ2000 is for you. It provides you clean, safe and power that everyone wants from their generator.
Inverter Technology makes it fuel-efficient and also energy-efficient in the process. The Smart Engine is capable of changing the speed of the engine depending on the demand, thus, paves the way to less noise.
What we really like about this generator is its Turbo mode of operation that saves fuel and gives Run Time of up to 7.7 hours at 25% load. Besides that this machine is Parallel Capable and allows you to connect two same models whenever you need more power output.
Other cool features about Generac iQ2000 is its easy-to-use dial PowerBar monitors that displays you the amount of wattage used and let you know how much capacity you are having.
You can choose from three different operation modes based on your preference, which are economy, standard and turbo.
Key Features
- Parallel Capable
- Three Modes of Operation
- Economy Mode
- Power Dial
- 5.7 hours Run Time at 25% load
- Turbo Mode
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running wattage | 1600 W |
| Starting Wattage | 2000 W |
| Engine Size | 80 cc |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 1.06 Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 7.7 hours at 25% load |
| Dimensions | 20 x 12.6 x 16.9 in. |
| Weight | 46.2 pounds |
What’s included?
- User’s Manual
8. Sportsman GEN4000DF RV Generator
With its Dual Fuel Technology, you can run the generator on either gasoline or propane, providing you the flexibility to choose from which fuel is available at the moment.
Other things to consider while buying a generator for travel purpose is Run Time. And, this generator can run up to 10 hours at 50% propane load or unleaded gas at full tank.
While planning to buy a portable generator for your RV, you must not forget to check out this versatile model. Three things that everyone looks in a generator are portability, reliability, and performance. Guess what? You’ll find them all in Sportsman GEN4000.
If you want to power your refrigerator, 13,500 BTU air conditioner, or your heavy-duty construction tools, the Sportsman will handle all your power needs without a glitch.
Whether you want this machine for recreational activities, camping, tailgating parties, RV or to power your home appliances, you can completely rely on it for your needs.
It’s 7 HP Engine isn’t that loud at all with a volume level of less than 69 dBA. Moreover, it also included 5-foot propane fuel hose with a regulator for your added convenience.
Key Features
- Dual Fuel Capability
- 10 hours Run Time at 50% load
- 3.6-Gallons Fuel Tank
- Recoil Start
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Dual Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 3500 W |
| Starting Wattage | 4000 W |
| Engine Size | 212 cc |
| Engine Type | 7 HP |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3.6-Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline, Propane |
| Run Time | 10 hours |
| Dimensions | 24.5 x 16.5 x 17 in |
| Weight | 94 lbs |
What’s included?
- Regulator Hose Kit
- Spark Plug
- User’s Manual
9. DuroMax XP4400E Portable RV Generator
Having a powerful DuroMax Engine, this generator provides you with plenty of power with 4,400 starting watts and 3,500 running watts. It is ideal for handling heavy loads from lights, freezer or a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
Moreover, with the amazing DuroMax MX2 technology, you can get the maximum power from each of the 120 Volt receptacles and choose between operating the generator at both 120 V as well as 240 V simultaneously, or 120 only with full power.
Powered by a 7 HP Engine, this unit can be used for supplying power to small houses or recreational vehicles. Also, to prevents the generator from overheating or overloads, the engine is air-cooled.
For easy mobility and your convenience, it comes with solid tires and a low oil shut-down sensor to automatically shut off the engine at this oil level.
DuroMax XP4400E is also CARB and EPA approved, making it safe and useful for recreational purposes and national parks.
Key Features
- Full Power Panel
- 7 HP Engine
- Built-in spark arrestor
- Low-oil shutdown
- EPA & CARB Approved
- Up to 8 hours Run Time
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 3500 W |
| Starting Wattage | 4000 W |
| Start Type | Electric, Recoil |
| Engine Size | 196 cc |
| Engine Type | 7 HP |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4-Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 8 hours |
| Dimensions | 36 x 24 x 24 inches |
| Weight | 120 pounds |
What’s included?
- Tool Kit
- 12 Volt Battery for Electric Starter
- Operating Manual
10. WEN 56475 Gasoline Powered Portable Generator
WEN 56475 is a durable and reliable generator with a compact design for easy transport. One of the cool features includes its keyless electric start that allows you to turn on your generator at just the press of a button.
With a full 4-Gallons fuel tank, the generator offers you a long Run Time of up to 11 hours at full load. Its 223cc OHV engine produces 4750 Watts of peak power and 3750 Watts rated power, which is enough to easily run your lights, refrigerator, TV, sump pump, or other appliances with ease.
You can rely on this machine in case of emergencies, disasters, power outages and also other recreational activities. Furthermore, its folding handles and a wheel kit makes transportation more easy and convenient for you.
Besides that, features like low-oil shutdown and spark arrestor ensure the safety of your device, preventing it from overloads.
Key Features
- Automatic Voltage Regulator
- 223 cc OHV engine
- Built-in Spark Arrestor
- Low-Oil Shutdown
- Keyless Electric Start
- 4-Gallons Gas Tank
- Run Time of up to 11 hours at 1/2 load
Specifications
| Portable Generator Technology | Single Fuel |
| Running Wattage | 3750 W |
| Starting Wattage | 4750 W |
| Engine Size | 223 cc |
| Engine Type | OHV Engine |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4 Gallons |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Run Time | 11 hours |
| Dimensions | 26.6 x 17.1 x 17.3 in |
| Weight | 112.5 pounds |
What’s included?
- Wheel Kit
- Dual handles
- 2-years Warranty
What is an RV generator?
RV generator is simply a portable generator used in an RV without transfer switches. It usually offers 1000-7000 Watts. Most of the 3000 Watt and below generators are 120 volts and 5000 -7000 Watts are generally 120/240 volts. Moreover, many of them could be lifted by one or two people depending upon the weight or size of the generator.
It can save your life while traveling your life on a road. Whenever you need a direct source of power for your 120V AC outlets, you’ll have this friend by your side. You can easily plug small appliances like your hairdryer, microwave, toaster, etc, making life much more convenient and easy for you.
Different types of RV Generators
Types of RV generators can be divided into four categories:
- Propane-fueled RV Generator
- Diesel-fueled RV Generator
- Gas-fueled RV Generator
- Dual-Fuel RV Generator
Propane-fueled RV Generator
One of the best things about propane generator is that it is more eco-friendly, promotes clear emissions, is less smelly, and also causes fewer carburetor problems as compared to a gas-fueled generator.
The downside is that it produces less energy as per gallon, hence more fuel consumption than gas or diesel-fueled ones.
Diesel-fueled RV Generator
If your vehicle also runs on diesel than going for the diesel-fueled generator can be a convenient option for you as you can use the same fuel for two purposes.
The good side to diesel is that it tends to produce higher and cleaner energy than gas or propane. Furthermore, diesel-fueled generators can be stored safely since they are not so explosive.
Gas-fueled RV Generator
Since gas is the easiest source of fuel to find, a gas-fueled RV Generator can be the most convenient one for you. Moreover, as compared to propane-powered generators, it produces more power with relatively less fuel consumption.
The only disadvantage is that it does not produce a very clear form of energy or power and also consists of some impurities which are more likely to clog the carburetor of your generator.
Frequently Asked Questions on RV Generators
Do you need a generator in an RV?
Whether you need a generator in your RV or not depends on your various requirements such as how much power do you need, how you want to use your RV and also on where you are using your RV. It is good to have a generator if you are thinking of dry camping or boondocking.
A portable RV generator allows you to power a rooftop air conditioner and can also be used to charge the battery bank of your RV.
Moreover, for campsites with no electric supply, generators can be really useful or even necessary to make your life much easier. You will always have a reliable source of power along with you throughout your journey.
What size generator do I need for my RV?
Air conditioners are one of the components in every RV that needs the most wattage. One thing to note is that starting an air conditioner needs more power than to keep it running.
So, while buying a generator for RV make sure how much power does your ac requires to start and then you can choose accordingly.
Usually, a 13500 btu air conditioner requires around 2800-3000 Wattage to start and a 15000 btu could be start-up by 3300-3500 Wattage.
Keep the amount of wattage that the generator is capable of producing, the bigger the size of your ac, more will be the wattage needed by it.
If you want to use other things like lights, fridge, along with your ac, going for a larger generator would be the best decision.
Will a 3500-watt generator run my RV?
The answer is YES. But, it also depends on how many appliances you want to run on your RV. A good 3500 watt portable generator allows you to run a TV, fridge, DVR, and ac while also letting you charge your laptop or smartphone.
Will a 2000 watt generator run a 13500 BTU air conditioner?
NO, a 2000 watt generator is not capable of running 13500 BTU air conditioner. You’ll be needing the one with 2800-3000 wattage.
What size generator do I need for a 15000 BTU air conditioner?
Generally to power a 15000 BTU air conditioner you will need a larger generator. The one that produces 3000-3500 wattage will do the job.