When you’re traveling off the grid or setting up camp far from shore power, having a reliable, portable RV generator is a must. It should be compact, quiet, efficient, durable, and powerful enough to keep your essentials running—including the air conditioner on sweltering days.

After years on the road and testing dozens of models, I’ve narrowed down my list to the seven best portable RV generators of 2024. These picks are favorites not only among RVers like myself but also across the camper community.

Top Picks at a Glance

Generator	Starting Watts	Running Watts	Noise Level	Runtime @ 25% Load	Notable Feature
Champion Power 2500	2500	1850	60–62 dB	11.3 hrs (gas), 34 hrs (propane)	Dual-fuel option
Honda EU2200i	2200	1800	53–54 dB	8.1 hrs	Bluetooth app & CO sensor
WEN 56200i	2000	1600	51–52 dB	9.3 hrs	Excellent portability
Westinghouse iGen4500	4500	3700	52–54 dB	18+ hrs	Remote electric start
Honda EU3000iS	3000	2800	55–58 dB	7.7 hrs	High-end power & build
Champion 4500W	4500	3500	61–62 dB	14 hrs	RV-ready outlet
Generac GP3000i	3000	2300	56–58 dB	5.8 hrs	PowerRush tech

1. Champion Power 2500W Dual Fuel – Best Overall for Lightweight Portability

Why it stands out: This compact dual-fuel inverter generator is a favorite for campers and RVers who need portability without sacrificing performance.

• Starting/Running Watts: 2500/1850 (gas), 2500/1650 (propane)
  
• Noise Level: 53 dB from 23 ft
  
• Runtime: 11.3 hrs on gas, 34 hrs on a 20-lb propane tank
  
• Weight: Just under 30 lbs
  

What impressed me the most was how easy it is to service. You don’t need tools to access critical components like the carburetor or air filter. It’s also parallel-capable—connect a second unit for more power.

Best for: Weekend RVers, campers with light power needs, anyone needing a compact backup power source.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight and compact
  
• Super quiet
  
• Dual fuel = longer runtime options
  
• Maintenance-friendly design
  

Cons:

• Lower output on propane (as expected)
  
• Manual recoil start only
  

2. Honda EU2200i – Best for Quiet Performance and Durability

Why it stands out: Honda’s EU2200i is the gold standard in inverter generators for a reason. It delivers clean, consistent power in an ultra-quiet and compact design.

• Starting/Running Watts: 2200/1800
  
• Noise Level: 48 dB (idle), 57 dB (full load)
  
• Runtime: 8.1 hrs at 25% load
  
• Weight: 46.5 lbs
  

It includes a carbon monoxide sensor (CO-MINDER) for safety, Bluetooth connectivity via Honda’s app, and the quality build you’d expect from Honda.

Best for: RVers who prioritize quiet operation, long-term reliability, and brand trust.

Pros:

• Extremely quiet operation
  
• Trusted Honda build and performance
  
• Bluetooth monitoring via smartphone
  
• Fuel shutoff feature preserves carburetor
  

Cons:

• Higher price tag
  
• No included 12V charging cable
  

3. WEN 56200i – Most Affordable Compact Generator

Why it stands out: This generator punches above its weight with great efficiency, good power output, and a clean, suitcase-style design.

• Starting/Running Watts: 2000/1600
  
• Noise Level: 51–52 dB
  
• Runtime: 9.3 hrs at 25% load
  
• Weight: 48 lbs
  

It has a USB port for charging devices and handles most small RV appliances well. It even powered a 5000 BTU AC during my test.

Best for: Budget-conscious campers who want solid power in a compact unit.

Pros:

• Incredibly portable
  
• Quiet and efficient
  
• Runs most small RV appliances
  
• USB charging port
  

Cons:

• Oil changes can be messy
  
• Not ideal for heavy-duty appliances
  

4. Westinghouse iGen4500 – Best Mid-Size Powerhouse

Why it stands out: With 4500 peak watts and a remote electric start, this generator is a serious workhorse for RVs with higher power demands.

• Starting/Running Watts: 4500/3700
  
• Noise Level: 52–54 dB
  
• Runtime: 18+ hrs
  
• Weight: 104 lbs
  

Its LCD display gives real-time data like fuel level and power output. It easily handled my RV’s AC, microwave, and heater at once.

Best for: Full-timers or RVers with large rigs and high power needs.

Pros:

• Massive output for its class
  
• Remote start + push-button ignition
  
• Excellent runtime
  
• Telescoping handle & wheels
  

Cons:

• Heavy to lift without wheels
  
• Choke may need manual adjustment early on
  

5. Honda EU3000iS – Quiet Power for Bigger Needs

Why it stands out: This is the quiet giant among portable generators. Ideal for running large appliances while still maintaining peaceful surroundings.

• Starting/Running Watts: 3000/2800
  
• Noise Level: 55–58 dB
  
• Runtime: 7.7 hrs
  
• Weight: 130 lbs
  

It’s built like a tank and lasts for years. If budget isn’t a concern and you want top-tier performance, this one’s worth a look.

Best for: RV owners seeking a high-capacity, ultra-reliable generator.

Pros:

• Whisper-quiet operation
  
• Legendary Honda durability
  
• High wattage for AC units or electric cooktops
  

Cons:

• Heavy and expensive
  
• No remote start
  

6. Champion 4500W Inverter – Budget Alternative to Westinghouse

Why it stands out: A solid alternative to the iGen4500 with similar wattage and great runtime at a slightly more affordable price.

• Starting/Running Watts: 4500/3500
  
• Noise Level: 61–62 dB
  
• Runtime: 14 hrs
  
• Weight: 97 lbs
  

It’s RV-ready with a 30A outlet and dual-fuel options available.

Best for: Campers who want high power without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• High output and fuel-efficient
  
• RV-ready with 30A plug
  
• Dual fuel capability on select models
  

Cons:

• Not as quiet as some others
  
• Heavier than smaller models
  

7. Generac GP3000i – Best for Boosting Start-Up Loads

Why it stands out: Generac’s PowerRush technology gives an extra boost for starting tools or appliances that need an initial surge.

• Starting/Running Watts: 3000/2300
  
• Noise Level: 56–58 dB
  
• Runtime: 5.8 hrs
  
• Weight: 59.5 lbs
  

Ideal for quick start-up of AC units or power tools on the go.

Best for: Users who need a surge for higher initial loads, but not continuous high wattage.

Pros:

• PowerRush boosts starting capacity
  
• Lightweight and portable
  
• Good for light-to-medium RV loads
  

Cons:

• Shorter runtime than competitors
  
• Not as quiet as others in this class
  

What to Look for in a Portable RV Generator

When shopping for an RV generator, keep the following in mind:

• Wattage Needs: Add up the running and starting watts of your must-have appliances.
  
• Noise Level: Look for 50–60 dB range if you’ll be camping near others.
  
• Fuel Type: Dual-fuel models give you more options during shortages.
  
• Weight and Portability: Wheels and handles are lifesavers for heavier units.
  
• Runtime: Aim for 8+ hours at 25% load for overnight use.
  
• Safety Features: CO sensors, low-oil shutoff, and overload protection are a must.
  

The best portable RV generators in 2024 deliver a mix of power, quiet performance, and efficiency—all at prices that won’t wreck your travel budget. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time traveler, there’s a model here that will suit your needs and keep your RV humming wherever the road takes you.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Portable RV Generator in 2024

When you’re looking for the best portable generator for your RV, the selection process shifts from just focusing on power to prioritizing compactness, efficiency, and quiet operation. After all, not every high-wattage generator is suitable for life on the road—especially when space, noise, and mobility matter.

Here’s what you need to consider before making your purchase:

1. Fuel Efficiency & Runtime at Average Load

One of the most critical features for any RV generator is runtime, especially when you’re off-grid and every drop of fuel counts. Fuel efficiency becomes a top priority—not just for convenience, but also to save money as fuel prices continue to rise.

Pro Tip:
A good inverter generator should run at least 7–8 hours at 25–30% load. This is the industry standard for modern, efficient units. Anything less might leave you in the dark when you need power the most.

2. Size, Weight & Portability

Compact, lightweight generators are ideal for RVing, tailgating, and camping. Look for a model that weighs under 100 pounds—ideally even less.

Portable generators should include:

• Carrying handles
  
• Wheels
  
• Compact designs
  

Trust us: dragging around a bulky generator just for a few extra watts isn’t worth it. Every model we’ve recommended is portable yet powerful enough to run an entire RV setup.

📝 Need something even smaller? Check out our list of the smallest portable generators.

3. Noise Level: Keep It Quiet

If you’re camping or staying at an RV park, noise can be a major issue—not only for your own peace but out of respect for others.

All the generators we’ve tested and reviewed run below 60 dB, even under heavy load. Some models with 3000+ running watts are still impressively quiet. We carefully tested noise levels across multiple units to make sure they meet or exceed industry standards.

Avoid noisy models. A loud generator isn’t just annoying—it’s a camping faux pas.

4. Fuel Type & Availability

There are three main fuel types to consider, each with pros and cons:

• Gasoline:
  
  • Most commonly available
    
  • Slightly dirtier than propane
    
  • Affordable and accessible
    
• Propane:
  
  • Clean-burning and eco-friendly
    
  • Often the cheapest option
    
  • May be harder to find in some locations
    
• Diesel:
  
  • Clean-burning and fuel-efficient
    
  • Louder and heavier
    
  • More expensive and less available in some areas
    

Dual-fuel generators (gas and propane) offer greater flexibility, which is why they’re a popular choice among RVers.

5. Altitude Kit Compatibility

If you travel to higher elevations, you’ll need to account for reduced oxygen, which affects generator performance.

As a rule of thumb, a generator loses about 3.5% power for every 1,000 feet above sea level. Installing an altitude kit can help maintain fuel efficiency and performance. These kits are brand-specific and automatically adjust fuel flow for higher altitudes.

6. Outlets and Connectivity Ports

Modern campers appreciate versatility. Look for a generator with:

• RV-ready 30A outlet
  
• 120V 20A household outlets
  
• USB charging ports
  
• Trickle charge ports (found on models like the Westinghouse iGen4500)
  

Having the right combination of ports allows you to charge devices, run major appliances, and stay connected without extra adapters or equipment.

7. Reliability & Durability

Your generator needs to be reliable, durable, and consistent, especially when used during off-grid adventures or power outages. Quality components and long-term reliability matter more than flashy features.

All the models we recommend have been field-tested for durability, and we stand by their ability to perform under pressure. Don’t cut corners here—invest in something that will last for years.

Are Portable RV Generators Worth It?

Absolutely. While built-in RV generators offer convenience and more power, portable generators are more flexible, affordable, and travel-friendly. They’re especially useful for campers and boondockers who want backup power without a permanent installation.

Why a portable RV generator is worth it:

• Delivers reliable power in a compact package
  
• Helps save fuel (especially with inverter tech)
  
• Avoids the hassle of towing or installing heavy units
  
• Provides flexibility to use outside your RV
  

Do You Really Need a Generator for Your RV?

Not always—but if you’re dry camping or boondocking, a portable generator can be a game-changer. It keeps your setup running when solar isn’t enough and gives you peace of mind when off-grid.

Benefits of an RV generator:

• Charges your RV batteries
  
• Acts as a backup when solar power is limited
  
• Runs high-demand appliances like ACs and microwaves
  
• Powers outdoor setups, lights, and tools
  
• Keeps you comfortable during unexpected outages
  

If you’re planning to spend time away from traditional hookups, a reliable portable generator is more of a necessity than a luxury.