I hear from many people this question, “What kind of generator do I need for my camper?”
The answer is not always very simple as it all depends on a number of factors.
Yet again, it is important that you make no mistake in buying just about any generator. After all, not all generators designed for campers are created equal.
With a bit of research, you can spare yourself from costly mistakes and potential safety hazards. So, with all these things in mind, let us go over these key features to look for in the best generator for a camper. Then, you will be all set for your next camping trip!
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What Kind of Generator Do I Need for My Camper?
Are you wondering about the best and most efficient generator that fits your camper lifestyle?
If so, let’s take a look at a few points.
For some people, living in a camper is more of a weekend getaway. But for others, it is their way of life.
Either way, a generator can bring back some slice of civilization into your life. Since there are zero electric hookups in the woods, your generator can make life much easier and more convenient for you.
This is why we have prepared this guide to point you in the right direction when it comes to shopping for the perfect generator for your good ol’ camper!
First off all, if you have a 30-amp camper, then you can do away with a 3000-watt portable generator. It should be able to power even your AC unit – easy peasy!
But I particularly recommend that you go for the inverter generator. What’s great about it is how quiet this thing is.
Just imagine having to enjoy the peace and quiet when in nature instead of listening to the obnoxious rumbling sound that other types of generators make.
What makes this possible is the combination of the engine and the inverter – all in one unit. No matter what the load, the alternator can retain the desirable output voltage. Thus, it is not just a matter of being quiet. There is also the fuel-efficiency piece to this bad boy.
And most importantly, an inverter generator is capable of producing the right amount of energy you need for your electronics – game consoles, TVs, computers, you name it.
So, if you have both AC and DC requirements, inverter generators can do the job because it caters to these two types of power.
Features to Look For in the Best Kind of Generator for a Camper
Now, let us take a look at these key feature that will help you discover the right generator to buy for your camper:
1. Size
This is very essential to consider since there are different size specifications in generators.
For instance, a 30-amp camper has about 13,500 AC power units. This is typical with travel RVs. What this means is that you can easily get away with a generator that has 3000 watts. You can power the TV, light, microwave, and AC with this much power.
While a larger generator works, too, you surely would not want to do it because of the steeper price point. Plus, a bulkier generator is definitely not as portable as a smaller one.
2. Weight
Speaking of portability, a good thing about a 3000-watt generator is that it is lightweight. Well, relatively lighter than a bulky, large generator, that is for sure.
You can find a generator with this wattage at about 48 pounds. This may not be that very easy to lug around but it is surely a step up from a generator that is double this weight.
3. Price Point
Next, consider the price you pay for a generator for an RV.
If you go for a 3000-watt or even a 2000-watt unit, this should be a much cheaper expense. But sometimes, it is not just the wattage that hikes up the price but also the brand.
Inverter generators are actually a bit more expensive because of the quiet-operation feature. So, in the case of a Honda or Yamaha inverter generator, these should set you back about a couple of thousand dollars.
Thankfully, there are cheaper options out there that may not bear those brands but work just as well.
4. Performance
Now, if you are looking into parking your vehicle at a high altitude area, then this is another point of consideration for you.
A higher location will require an adjustment on the fuel-to-oxygen ratios. With a higher elevation comes the concern with reduced oxygen levels. So, less fuel will be burned during the compression cycle as the air becomes less dense.
Bottom line – there will be minimal power obtained from your generator because of the elevation. But at the same time, it should still be able to run nearly everything in the camper.
5. Boost in Power
Another fine feature I like to look for in a camping generator is a boost in power.
This comes in handy when you have a number of appliances that need to be powered. Whether you have power tools, computers, and other energy-demanding appliances, you can count on your generator to give you the power required.
You can also check out this video to learn more about the best generator for camping to buy:
Conclusion
Shopping for the right camping generator can be tricky.
But after learning more about these features and guides, we hope this post answered your question, “what kind of generator do I need for my camper.” You should be able to find the best generator that will definitely suit the lifestyle, power requirements, and budget you have for this product.
So, we hope this helped wishing you happy trails during your camping!
