RV Generators

RV generators help keep the comforts of home close by, whether you’re parked at a campground, spending a weekend by the lake or heading down a back road. Finding the right generator for your travel trailer, fifth wheel or motorhome starts with knowing how much power your setup needs. Add up the running watts of the appliances you plan to operate at the same time, then allow for the extra starting watts needed by equipment such as an RV air conditioner or refrigerator. Your RV owner’s manual and appliance labels are good places to check those requirements. An RV-ready generator with a compatible outlet can simplify your power connection, but you’ll still need to match the generator’s output, voltage and receptacle to your RV’s electrical system. A 30-amp RV and a 50-amp RV have different power capacities, and a plug adapter alone won’t increase the electricity a generator can supply. Think through your everyday camping routine, too: powering a few lights and charging phones calls for a different setup than running air conditioning and a microwave together. As you compare RV generators, consider fuel type, runtime, noise level and how you’ll move and store the unit between trips. Portable inverter generators can be a good fit for camping thanks to their controlled electrical output and, on many models, engine speeds that adjust to the load. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for compatibility with sensitive electronics, and compare noise ratings at similar distances and loads rather than assuming every camping generator runs quietly. Gasoline, propane and dual-fuel generators offer different refueling options, while runtime depends on tank capacity, fuel choice and the amount of power you draw. Handles, wheels and overall weight matter if you’ll be loading a portable RV generator before each outing. Follow campground generator rules and the manufacturer’s operating instructions, and run portable generators outdoors at least 20 feet from your RV and other occupied spaces, with exhaust pointed away from doors, windows and vents. Never operate one inside an RV, garage or enclosed compartment, and keep working carbon monoxide alarms in your camper. With the right power capacity and a safe setup, an RV generator can help keep your next trip running smoothly, even beyond the reach of campground hookups.