There’s nothing worse than the dreaded “low battery” warning on your cell phone.
Well, maybe a coffee pot that doesn’t work when you need your morning caffeine, especially when you’re traveling.
Travel is the ultimate stress reliever and camping is a great way to travel and get close to nature while you do it.
If you’re an RV camper, you’ve got the best of both worlds: the beauty of nature with modern luxuries like a bed, a coffee pot, and air conditioning.
But not all campsites offer electrical hookups. That’s why a generator can be a game-changer for your RV camping experience.
Here are some tips for picking out the best RV generator.
Inverter Generator vs Conventional Generator
Conventional generators tend to be cheaper and more powerful. Inverter generators are quieter and safer to use with sensitive electronics, like cell phones.
For camping purposes, it’s almost always better to go with an inverter. They are smaller, more portable, and less noisy.
How Much Power Do You Need?
Think about what appliances you plan to power and how big your RV is.
To power a television, you’ll need a smaller generator. If you want to run your air conditioner, you’ll need something larger.
RVs come in two power sizes: 30 amp and 50 amp. As you might guess, 50 amp RVs are larger and need more power.
When shopping for a 50 amp generator, it’s important to keep size and weight in mind. After all, you’ll be hauling this thing around.
What Brand Makes the Best RV Generator?
Choosing a brand is the most difficult part of generator shopping so be sure and do your homework before you shop.
Honda and Yamaha make some of the best portable generators for RV camping. They are also the most expensive on the market.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, Champion and Westinghouse are a couple of options. There are also off-brands available.
In the long run, you might be better off going with the proven brand.
Features and Alternative Power Sources
Do your research and figure out what additional features are important to you.
For example, many of the cheaper models come with a pull start, like a lawnmower. A higher-end model will likely come with an easier button or key start.
There are power output options as well. Certain generators have the ability to boost power for a few seconds. This is helpful to start up something like an air conditioner that requires more power to start.
You can also get generators that idle down when power usage is low, saving fuel.
If you’re concerned about fuel usage, you might consider a propane or solar generator.
Bottom Line: Get What Works for You
The best RV generator is the one that works for you.
When you’re researching what generator to buy, make a list of the features that are important to you.
Set your budget and figure out what brands have the features you want within your price range.
If you’ve got tips for buying an onboard RV generator, leave your comments below. Also, check out our products blog for more product reviews and recommendations.
