10 Best Portable Generators for RVs 2024 | The Ultimate List and Buying Guide

As you may know, a constant power supply is crucial for a successful road trip, and using a reliable portable generator makes all the difference. RVs are like cozy homes on wheels, offering all the comforts of home even when you’re on the move.

But here’s the catch: They need more power than your regular car battery can provide. Imagine being out in the wild, where no electrical outlets are in sight. What do you do when you want to power up your gadgets, keep the lights on, or keep your fridge cold? That’s where the magic of RV generators comes in!

Think of portable RV generators as little powerhouses that give your RV the energy it craves. When camping in well-equipped places like RV parks, you can plug into external power sources like “shore power” at marinas.

However, what happens when you’re out adventuring in remote places, and all the campsites with power are already taken? That’s when your trusty RV generator swoops in to save the day.

RV generators come in a variety of sizes and shapes, have varying power outputs, and use conventional or alternative fuels. Whether you’re a light traveler or a heavy-duty traveler, there’s an RV generator made just for you.

Today, I’m here to share my road-tested insights on the 10 best portable generators for your RV. I’ve scoured the market, tested these machines, and ensured they’re worthy of a spot in your RV arsenal.

What are the best portable generators for RVs?

The Champion Power Equipment 100416 has an impressive power of over 8,000 watts. If you’re looking for an affordable portable generator, the A-iPower SUA2000iV is your best bet.

Need to maintain a noiseless environment at the campsite? The Firman W03083 comes to your rescue with just 58 decibels. Want a generator with a long running time? The WEN 56380i has over 8.5 hours of runtime and can serve that purpose.

There’s still so much on the list. So, buckle up as we delve into the home of RV portable generators, revealing their features, comparing their performance, and equipping you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

RV travel is all about freedom and exploration, but it’s crucial to have a power source that’s as mobile as you are. Portable generators provide the energy needed to keep your lights on, devices charged, appliances running, and air conditioning cool, even when you’re miles away from the nearest electrical hookup.

Whether camping in a remote national park, attending a festival, or boondocking in a picturesque desert, a reliable portable generator is your ticket to comfort and convenience. It’s that extra boost that transforms your RV into a home, wherever your heart leads you.

Now, let’s dive into the top contenders that deserve a spot in your RV arsenal.

10 Best Portable Generators for RVs

Here’s a list of the highest-ranking portable RV Generators:

1. Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator ─ The Best Overall Portable RV Generator
2. Champion Power Equipment 100416 Portable Generator ─ The Most Durable Portable RV Generator
3. A-iPower SUA2000iV RV Portable Inverter Generator ─ Best budget-friendly RV generator
4. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 ─ Best 100-watt solar generator with an eco-friendly design
5. WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Portable RV Inverter Generator ─ Most Versatile RV Portable Generator
6. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500 ─ Best RV generator with impressive power
7. DuroMax XP4400E RV Grade Gas Generator ─ Most reliable Portable RV generator
8. Firman W03083 Whisper Series ─ Most Quiet Portable RV Generator 
9. Cummins Onan P4500I Inverter Portable RV Generator ─ Best Portable RV Generator with Quality Power
10. Bluetti EB 240 Portable Power Station ─ Best high-capacity RV generator

1. Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator ─ Best Overall Portable RV Generator

We kick off our list with a legend in the generator world, the Honda EU2200i. This quiet and efficient generator is a favorite among RVers for its dependable power output, quiet operation, and impressive fuel efficiency.

With 2200 watts of power, it can keep your essentials up and running without disturbing the peace of your campsite. Just be prepared to shell out a bit more for the Honda quality—it’s worth it!

The Honda EU2200i Companion Portable Generator is a compact and highly portable inverter generator, making it an excellent choice for RV owners seeking convenience and ease of use.

Despite its small size, this generator delivers impressive power and performance. One of the reasons I consider this generator one of the best portable RV generators is its ability to handle multiple appliances.

The Honda EU2200i boasts a rated power output of 1,800 watts and a maximum surge power of 2,200. Also, it has a parallel operation indicator light that lets you know when the generator is correctly connected to another EU2200i for a similar operation.

In addition, the generator incorporates Honda’s reliable recoil starting system, ensuring quick and hassle-free starts.

Features:

• Compact design
• Lightweight
• Super quiet
• Size: 20.5 x 19.5 x 12.2 inches
• Weight: 46.5 lbs
• Volts: 120

2. Champion Power Equipment 100416 Portable Generator ─ The Most Durable Portable RV Generator

This generator is designed to provide an uninterrupted power supply during camping trips, power outages, outdoor events, and construction sites.

With its impressive tri-fuel feature, this generator is powered by gasoline, which runs on 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts. The propane feature operates on 9,000 starting watts and 7,200 running watts.

The natural gas engine operates at 8,750 starting watts and 7,000 running watts, and engine oil is included. It’s worth noting that the Champion Power Equipment 100416 has a 439 cc single-cylinder OHV engine, making it highly durable.

Additionally, it comes standard with electric and recoil start options as a backup. With just a little push, you can turn on the generator.

The generator is also highly rated because of its tri-fuel capability. It runs on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, allowing flexibility and convenience.

Most of all, The Champion Power Equipment Portable Generator has an Intelligence display that shows real-time updates on its frequency, operating hours, and voltage. This feature lets you track your generator’s performance and know when it needs maintenance.

Features:

• Tri-fuel option
• 439cc single-cylinder OHV engine
• Size: 23.2 x 19.1 x 20 inches
• Weight: 207 pounds
• Volts: 120

3. A-iPower SUA2000iV RV Portable Inverter Generator ─ Best Budget-friendly RV Generator

For RVers seeking a more budget-friendly option, the A-iPower SUA2000iV portable inverter generator is an excellent choice. Just like other RV generators, it is designed for outdoor adventures.

This generator has over 2000 surge power watts and 1600 watts of power output, allowing the efficient running of the RV’s AC, electronics, and refrigerators. It comes standard with an inverter that ensures a stable power supply without power outages or voltage fluctuations.

With its smart throttle system, you can adjust the engine’s speed to minimize fuel consumption and extend its runtime. Of course, the SUA2000iV has a relatively low noise level of 58 decibels. So, rest assured of a peaceful adventure.

Features:

• Gasoline powered
• Powerful 80cc OHV
• Size: 22 x 13 x 20 inches
• Weight: 50 lbs
• Volts: 120

4. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 ─ Best 100-watt solar generator with an eco-friendly design

For RVers seeking an eco-friendly and convenient power solution, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a top contender. This solar-powered generator provides a clean, renewable energy source for charging and powering RV appliances and devices.

With a power capacity of over 273,000 mAh, it can power as many RV devices as possible. Interestingly, the generator can be charged from different sources. It can be charged with solar panels, a 12V carport, or an AC wall outlet.

So, whether outdoors or indoors, you can recharge your generator. The Jackery Solar Generator has an integrated power inverter that enhances a longer power supply duration.

More so, there are many power output options in the generator. Some include AC outlets, DC carports, USB ports, and USB-C ports.

In addition, it features an expandable battery capability, allowing you to connect additional Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels (sold separately) to increase the charging speed and overall capacity.

You can charge up the power station in just 6 hours using 2 Jackery SolarSaga 100-watt solar panels. If you’re in a hurry, you can also charge it in only 5.5 hours using a regular wall outlet. This is perfect for camping trips or keeping it ready for emergencies at home with your family.

Features:

• Solar and battery-powered
• Solar panel and charging cord included
• Extremely noiseless
• Size: 13.1 x 9.2 x 11.1 inches
• Weight: 22.04 lbs
• Volts: 110

5. WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Portable RV Inverter Generator ─ Most Versatile RV Portable Generator

The WEN 56380i is popular among RVers looking for a reliable and versatile portable generator. Priced at an average of $650, it falls within a reasonable range, offering a good balance between affordability and performance.

The 56380i delivers a rated power output of 3,400 watts and a maximum power surge of 3,800 watts, providing the needed power to run all your essential RV appliances.

Also, this generator has advanced inverter technology. Its eco-mode throttle feature enhances fuel efficiency and extends its duration.

In addition, it has a 30-amp outlet that allows for easy connection to the RV’s power outlet without using an additional adapter. Most of all, its 57 decibels ensure that you enjoy your adventure without noise.

Features:

• Electric start
• 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine
• Size: 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 inches
• Weight: 99.2 lbs
• Volts: 120

6. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500 ─ Best RV generator with impressive power

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment is an exceptional choice for RVers seeking a generator equipped with advanced features and impressive performance. 

The iGen4500 features an intuitive LCD that provides real-time information on fuel level, power output, voltage, and running time, allowing easy monitoring and operation.

Also, this generator comes with a starter system and a remote start feature, allowing for effortless and convenient starting options, even from a distance.

Interestingly, the iGen4500 offers parallel capability, allowing you to connect two Westinghouse generators with a parallel kit. This combination aims to double the power output, meeting higher power demands.

Features:

• Super quiet
• Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke
• Size: 24.5 x 17.5 x 20 inches
• Weight: 93 pounds
• Volts: 120

7. DuroMax XP4400E RV Grade Gas Generator ─ Most reliable portable RV generator

The DuroMax XP4400E is equipped with a 7-horsepower, air-cooled engine that produces 3500 watts of power output and a surge power of 4400 watts. The control panel of the XP4400E offers several outlet options, including two 120V household outlets, one 120V/240V twist-lock outlet, and one 12V DC outlet.

These features enable the generator to provide versatility in powering various devices and appliances. Also, the generator has a low oil feature that allows the engine to turn off automatically when the oil level is low.

Features:

• Powered by 210cc OHV engine
• Size: 24 x 17 x 17 inches
• Weight: 127 lbs
• Volts: 125

8. Firman W03083 Whisper Series ─ Most Quiet Portable RV Inverter Generator 

While the Firman W03083 Whisper Series may not be as well-known as some other brands, customer reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, praising its high-quality performance and reliable operation. This portable RV generator lives up to its name by offering a whisper-quiet process.

The W03083 has a rated power output of 3,300 watts and a maximum surge power of 3,800 watts, providing ample ability to run all RV appliances.

The Whisper Series generators from Firman are engineered with advanced muffler and sound-dampening technologies, reducing noise output during operation and making them suitable for quiet environments and camping trips.

Features:

• Noiseless
• Electric start
• Size: 26.6 x 18.9 x 19.3 inches
• Weight: 109 lbs
• Volts: 120

9. Cummins Onan P4500I Inverter Portable RV Generator ─ Best Portable RV Generator with Quality Power

The Onan P4500i Inverter Portable RV Generator is a trustworthy companion for your outdoor and emergency power needs. Delivering 4500 peak watts and 3700 running watts, this generator ensures your devices and appliances stay up and running, whether you’re camping, tailgating, or facing unexpected outages.

This generator is ideal for RV owners looking for a permanent generator solution. It is a compact and reliable power source. It comes equipped with a dependable 7.3 HP 224cc OHV 4-Stroke engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology. Resulting in efficient fuel consumption and extended runtime on a single fuel tank.

Also, the Onan P4500I features a microprocessor-based control system that ensures precise voltage and frequency regulation, providing stable power for sensitive electronics and appliances.

Its impressive power output, quiet operation, and efficiency make it a great choice for various outdoor activities and emergency situations. With the added convenience of remote start and parallel capability, this generator is a dependable asset for your power needs.

Generally. Cummins Onan generators are known for their simple and accessible maintenance procedures, with features like easy oil checks and filter replacements to keep the generator running smoothly.

Features:

• Led display
• Remote start
• Quiet operation
• Size: 24.5″L x 18.25″W x 20.5″H
• Weight: 104 pounds
• Volts: 120

10. Bluetti EB240 Portable Power Station ─ Best High-Capacity RV Generator 

The Bluetti EB240 Portable Power Station offers RV owners a sustainable, portable power solution. As a high-capacity and versatile generator, it provides a quiet, pollution-free alternative to traditional generators.

It features multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, providing convenient charging options for smartphones, tablets, and other USB-compatible gadgets. The EB240 is solar-ready and can be charged using compatible solar panels (not included), allowing for sustainable and off-grid power generation.

The BLUETTI Portable Power Station is your all-in-one solution for staying powered up on the go. Its high capacity, versatile outputs, and compatibility with solar panels make it a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those preparing for travel emergencies.

Features:

• Solar charging
• LCD display
• Multiple Output Ports
• Size: 19.4 x 6.5 x 14.4
• Weight: 57 lbs (generator unit), 14 lbs (foldable solar panels)
• Volts: Not specified

Comparing the Top 10 Portable Generators for RVs

Now that we’ve met the contenders, it’s time to lay it all out on the table. Take a look at this detailed comparison chart to see how these best generators for RVs stack up:

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Generators for RVs

The quest for the best portable RV generator starts with understanding your power needs. Are you content with basic lighting and entertainment, or do you crave the luxury of HVAC systems to create your own climate-controlled oasis?

Once you’ve decoded your power requirements, it’s time to weigh in on other factors. These factors may include noise level, power needs, and fuel preferences. Let’s explore some of the factors in detail:

1. Power output requirements

One of the most important factors to consider is determining your power needs. Carefully reassess the devices and appliances you intend to run simultaneously in your RV while using your generator. 

Consider each item’s starting and running wattage requirements, including refrigerators, televisions, microwaves, etc. Calculate the total wattage needed to ensure your generator can handle the load without tripping circuit breakers or overloading.

2. Fuel type

RV portable generators usually run on dual-fuel capability—gasoline or propane. Gasoline generators are widely available and offer a high power output. Propane generators are cleaner and more fuel-efficient but may have a slightly lower power output. 

Dual-fuel generators provide versatility by allowing you to switch between gasoline and propane, offering flexibility in fuel availability.

3. Duration and fuel efficiency

Consider how long the generator can operate on a full fuel tank. Look for models with longer runtimes, especially if you spend extended periods away from power sources.

Also, fuel efficiency is crucial for optimizing fuel consumption and reducing refueling frequency.

4. Noise level

RV enthusiasts value quietness, so the noise level is an essential factor to consider. Look for generators specifically designed for quiet operation, often labeled as “quiet” or “silent” generators. 

Pay attention to the decibel (dB) rating, with lower dB values indicating quieter operation. Consider generators with noise-reducing features such as mufflers or insulated casings for a more enjoyable camping experience.

5. Portability and weight

RVers often value portability, as they may need to move the generator around or transport it to different locations. Consider the weight and size of the generator, as well as the presence of handles or wheels for easy maneuverability. Compact and lightweight models are ideal for RVers on the move.

6. Start-Up method

Electric start generators offer remote start capabilities and a convenient push-button, removing the need to pull a recoil cord manually. Alternatively, manual start generators employ the unconventional method of pulling the recoil cord to start the engine.

This factor benefits individuals during cold weather conditions or those with physical limitations.

7. Safety features

I’d advise you to invest in generators with in-built safety features like automatic voltage regulation, low oil shutdown, and overload protection.

These features help protect the generator’s engine, preventing damage from overloading or low oil levels. Consider the safety features provided for each generator to ensure the longevity of the equipment.

Types of RV generators

Here are the types of RV generators commonly available:

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are portable generators that provide clean and stable power. They utilize advanced electronics to produce power with less noise and fewer voltage fluctuations, making them ideal for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Built-in Generators

Also known as onboard or integrated generators, these units are permanently installed in the RV. They are designed to run on the vehicle’s fuel system (gasoline or diesel) or utilize a separate fuel tank. Built-in generators are more convenient and offer a seamless power source, but they require professional installation.

Solar Generators

Solar generators harness solar energy through photovoltaic panels to charge batteries, powering the RV. They are environmentally friendly, quiet, and require no fuel, making them an attractive option for eco-conscious RVers.

Portable Generators

These standalone units can be easily transported and placed outside the RV. They run on various fuels, such as gasoline, propane, or diesel. Portable generators offer flexibility as they can be used for other purposes besides RVing.

Conclusion

Ultimately, selecting the best portable generator for your RV is essential to ensuring a reliable and convenient power source during your travels. From powering your morning coffee maker to keeping your gadgets charged for capturing breathtaking sunsets, a portable generator is your key to unlocking a world of convenience and comfort during your RV adventures.

Whether you choose the Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500, Champion Power Equipment 100307, or any other generator from the list, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper usage and maintenance is advisable.

Additionally, if you’re seeking quiet serenity, fuel flexibility, or compact convenience, your choice will ensure that your RV journey remains a masterpiece of freedom, spontaneity, and boundless adventure.

Each of these 10 generators brings its own strengths to the table, catering to various needs and preferences. As you venture forth into the unknown, may this review be your guiding light.

I’ve scoured the market and tested these generators, and now I am passing on my knowledge to you. So, fellow road warriors, which portable generator will be your travel companion?

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Portable Generators for RVs