Now that you have settled on going on a camping vacation, you need to decide the kind of portable generator that will serve you best in your travels. This post will guide you through the process of choosing the best portable generator for camping by breaking it down into its parts. It seems to make the most sense to start by discussing the many types of portable generators available on the market. After that, we can narrow down the selection to determine the best possibilities.
What is a Portable Camping Generator
A portable camping generator is a gas or diesel or solar powered device that provides temporary electricity while your are camping. Power is provided by running the internal engine or battery unit through fuel (gasoline, diesel, solar, etc.). A power outlet on the unit allows you to plug in extension cords, power tools and appliances. It allows you to easily power your laptop, cell phone and other small electrical devices while you're camping. Known primarily for its convenience and quick power supply, it is a convenient backup power source and outdoor power source.
Types of Portable Generator for Camping
1. Gasoline Generators
When searching for generators, we seek those that have the potential to convert a single energy source into electricity at the highest possible rate. The gasoline generator is the foundation of this system. The generator functions as a straightforward mechanism that resembles an engine and begins its work in the same manner as a lawnmower. Although it emits exhaust gases at one end and has a rate of pollution that is not very desirable, the generator effectively accomplishes its purpose. In addition to this, its dimensions are not very large.
2. Diesel Generators
Diesel has several advantages that gasoline does not. Because of these benefits, prominent industrial players choose diesel as their backup power source in an emergency. Diesel has a lower environmental impact than gasoline.
Gasoline has a greater ignition temperature than diesel does. Suppose you wish to store fuel in an area that simultaneously includes sources of extreme heat or open flames. In that case, diesel is a substantially safer alternative than gasoline (for example, a garage with a workshop).
In addition to this, the shelf life of diesel fuel is much greater than that of gasoline. When correctly kept, diesel fuel has a life of approximately six and twelve months. However, this is not the case if it contains any additives which considerably prolong the product's shelf life. On the other hand, the shelf life of gasoline that has not been tampered with is just around three months. These two different fuel generators are often the choice of RV generators, many RV camper will also consider the fuel efficiency of the generator, somegood brands or expensive generators have better performance in this regard, of course, there are also generators on the market that support dual fuel, but the price is more expensive than each of them.
3. Hydrogen Generators
The process of electrolysis is used by hydrogen generators to separate hydrogen from water. The application of an electric current accomplishes this separation. After then, hydrogen might be used in a wide variety of contexts. Suppose the pressure of the hydrogen supply that is coming from the generator is high enough. In that case, it may be possible to do away with using hydrogen cylinders entirely and provide an alternative that is safer and easier to operate. This would be advantageous for several reasons, including the fact that it would be more straightforward.
4. Solar Generators
Solar generators are most efficient when they charge electronic devices and provide electricity to small household appliances. Because of their excellent portability, they are an excellent backup power source for a camping vacation in an RV or on a boat. In addition, they do not harm the surrounding ecosystem and do not need you to have a substantial amount of fuel on hand.
What is The Best Portable Generator for Camping?
From the above four types of portable generators, we analyzed and concluded that solar generator is the most suitable and best portable generator for your camping journey. The following are the reasons for our analysis:
1. Portability
The market for solar generators is expanding in a manner that is both gradual and consistent. Portable power stations utilizing solar energy as their primary source of power are a novel alternative to the more traditional portable generators that run on petroleum.
There are a variety of applications for portable solar generators; this is true even if you are contemplating buying one specifically for use in camping. You can just pick them up and move them anywhere you want to go since they are so simple to utilize for getting about. You may take it with you in the vehicle on any camping trip or other outing when you might want an additional source of power.
2. Easy to use
Setting up and running a solar generator to power equipment is so simple. No struggling to start the generator like with gasoline or diesel, it's really just a matter of setting up the panels, plugging in and flipping a switch.
3. Eco-friendly
A portable solar generator gathers the sun's rays with the help of solar panels, which then stores the collected energy in a battery so that it may be utilized at a later time. The vast majority of solar generators are put to use in recreational vehicles (RVs), boats, and as a backup power source in the event that the power grid goes down. You are not contributing to global warming by using fuels containing carbon, nor are you disturbing other campers with loud conventional generators. Solar generators provide a green and sustainable option for providing electricity at a campsite.
Are Solar-Powered Generators classified as Renewable Energy? In a nutshell: yeah! The energy that is derived from the sun and stored in generators is completely renewable. Solar generators are entirely reliant on the sun's rays as their source of power since sunlight is a renewable resource.
4. Quiet and low maintenance
Noise level is a factor that needs special attention when selecting a camping portable generator, as it can affect your rest and even your neighbors. Well, Solar generators, unlike conventional ones, produce little to no audible noise during operation. And unlike gas-powered generators, solar generators don't have any moving components. This results in a considerable reduction in the amount of noise they make when they are operating. Additionally, since there is an absence of moving parts, the likelihood of solar generator components failing is reduced.
5.Easy to charge by solar
If you are going to be camping for a long period of time or if you are going to be traveling to a location that has an unpredictable power system, solar-powered chargers are a fantastic alternative. They are also useful for keeping on hand in an emergency supply bag.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Camping Generator
1. Running watt
Running watts, also known as rated watts, are the watts required continuously to keep an object running. Starting watts are additional watts that are required for a period of two or three seconds in order to start devices such as a refrigerator. This is the highest wattage that the generator is capable of producing. Follow this guide to find the wattage of various appliances and estimate how much electricity you need.
2. Running time
Portable generators, as opposed to standby generators, are intended to operate for shorter periods of time at a time, often ranging from six to eighteen hours. These machines may come in useful for recreational vehicles (RVs) on camping excursions or for powering some household appliances in an emergency; however, it is not suggested to use them during power outages that last for an extended period of time.
3. Outlets
The types and numbers of outlets that are included with portable generators vary depending on the model of the generator. Outlets are always included with portable generators. The majority of portable generators are equipped with outlets that can provide electricity at 12 volts DC, Alternatively 120 or 240 volts AC, and even USB connections. There are generators that just have one or two alternatives, while some have as many as four.
4. Portability
The fact that portable generators are so simple to use makes them an excellent accessory for any kind of outdoor activity. On a camping vacation with the family, a portable generator may be used to power a mini-fridge to preserve meat and fish at the appropriate temperature and to offer some light when it becomes dark. If you have a recreational vehicle, purchasing a portable generator is a smart investment since it enables you to experience the conveniences of home regardless of where you happen to be.
Additionally, because we do live in a world that is obsessed with technology, it may be impossible to go camping or on a long road trip without access to work emails or the ability to communicate with coworkers. A portable generator takes the stress out of extended trips because it can easily power computers and tablets as needed. This eliminates the need to worry about missing out on important work-related information. Or, if you and your family just want to spend the night in your tent watching a movie, a portable generator is more than capable of making that happen for you.
5. Consider safety
Your generator has to be kept outdoors at all times and kept at least 20 to 25 feet away from any open doors, windows, or vents that might enable carbon monoxide to enter your home. In a campground for recreational vehicles (RVs), position the generator a full power cable length away from any and all coaches that are nearby. A solar portable power station does not suffer from the same safety issues that other generators do.
Our Recommended Portable Generators for Camping
So far this article has looked closely at what we should be considering when we are buying a portable generator. By studying the varieties of generators available we managed to establish that solar portable generators were the best choice. We then looked at what we should anticipate from a generator, so lastly, we need to pull it all together and pick the best one that meets all our checkboxes.
1. Growatt INFINITY 1500 Portable Solar Generator
So, having evaluated the alternatives we got to the conclusion that Infinity 1500 Solar Portable Power Station is the optimal pick. Now let's understand the reasons for choosing it.
- Growatt has over 10 years of expertise in this industry and is an expert in sustainable energy production. These guys know what they are doing.
- Think about our camping excursion. It's summertime and we have time to take a long rest. Do we wish to transport and store liters of fuel diesel? Not only is it hefty, but it is a safety danger. With the Infinity 1500, you may utilize the sun to replenish your electricity in only a few hours. In reality, you should be able to charge this device in roughly 2.5 hours. So you have pretty much infinite electricity for your camping excursion.
- There is no possibility you are going to be competing with your fellow campers to charge your smartphone. The Infinity 1500 features 12 outputs (include AC, DC and USB ports) which may be utilized concurrently. Remember too, that if you keep your Infinity1500 linked to the solar panels, it will charge up your gadgets while being completely charged itself, leaving the saved power for nighttime usage.
- So what can you really accomplish with the Infinity 1500? Well described simply you could power a WiFi router for about 53 hours, operate a 30w camping light for more than 40 hours, and get this, you could recharge your smartphone 132 times. In fact, the Infinity 1500 can power 95% of household appliances and then fast recharge them using the free sunshine.
- Efficiency cannot be overlooked of course, and the Infinity 1500 is fitted with An electrical device known as a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) is a DC-to-DC converter. Its purpose is to improve the compatibility between a solar array (consisting of PV panels) and a battery bank or utility grid. To explain it another way, they take the higher voltage DC output of the solar panels and convert it to the lower voltage that is required to charge the batteries.
Listen to the birds singing, not the thunderous roar of a traditional generator. We have all been there and set up camp, only to have some clown pitch their camp close by, then switch on that generator that spoils the atmosphere of your camp with its noise.
2. Growatt VITA550 Portable Camping Generator
With 538Wh Capacity & 600W Output, VITA 550 can power run up to 90% of your outdoor appliances and devices. You can charge your machine anywhere, anytime, outdoors, wall charge in 1.6 hours, solar charge in 2.5 hours. VITA 550 is with a LiFePO4 Battery, for up to 10 years of use with 3000+ life cycles.
| Net Weight | 17.82 Ibs/8.16Kg |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 12.2 x 8.4 x 7.8in (310 x 213 x 197.5mm) |
| Optimal Operating Temperature | 20°C~30°C / 68℉~86℉ |
| Cell Chemistry | LiFePO4 |
| Capacity | 538Wh |
| Certifications | UL, CE, UN38.3, PSE, FCC, CCC |
| MPPT Efficiency | 99% |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
| Lifecycle | ＞3000 cycles |
| MPPT | Support solar power MPPT charging |
Buy Growatt VITA 550 Portable Camping Generator
3. Growatt INFINITY 1300 Portable Camping Generator
Growatt INFINITY 1300 + 200W Portable Solar Panel Combo, if the input power reaches 800W (4 pcs 200W solar panels), with this combo pack, you will be able to charge your INFINITY 1300 in as fast as 2.5 hours, which is the best in the market. The solar charging speed is one of the most popular combinations, and we highly recommend this package to you.
| Solar Charge | 2.5Hrs (Max Input under full sunlight) 800W (12-100V, 12A) |
| Capacity | 1382Wh |
| Battery Chemistry | LiFePO4 |
| EPS | Yes |
| Battery Expansion | Parallel to increase battery capacity (Up to 3 Units) |
| Vehicle Charge | 12-24Vd.c. 8A,Max |
| Wall Charge | 100-120V~, 60Hz |
| App Management | Yes (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection) |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 16.5 x 9.1 x 11.3in (418.7 x 230 x 287mm) |
| MPPT | Support solar power MPPT charging |
| Weight | 42.32lbs (19.2kg) |
| Certifications | ETL, FCC, IC,DOE, CEC, CA6 |
Buy Growatt 1300 Portable Camping Generator
FAQs
1. What can a 2000-watt portable generator run?
A generator with a wattage of 2000 is capable of powering almost all of the home's appliances, such as a small air conditioning unit, washing machine, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, hotplates, blow dryers, different power tools, water pumps, and many more. The only restriction is how much a generator with 2000 watts can power at once.
Here are the ratings of most appliances you may need, check the actual back plate of the item to be sure.
|
Devices |
Running Watts (W) |
Starting Watts (W) |
|
Air Conditioner |
650 |
1800 |
|
Electric Heater |
1800 |
0 |
|
Small Refrigerator |
200 |
1200 |
|
Home Dishwasher |
1500 |
1500 |
|
A Washing Machine |
800 |
1900 |
|
Electric Water Pump |
900 |
2000 |
|
PC Computer |
300 |
0 |
|
20 Watt Light Bulbs |
20 |
0 |
|
Your Hair Dryer |
1250 (nearing limit) |
2000 |
|
Smart Phone Charger |
10 |
0 |
|
Smoothing Iron |
1200 |
0 |
|
Portable Television |
350 |
0 |
|
Essential Coffee Maker |
1200 |
0 |
|
Bread Toaster |
1200 |
0 |
2. What size generator do you need for camping?
Normally, a 2000-watt unit should be plenty for you, even you wish to run the air conditioner or microwave. In short, you need to calculate in advance the total amount of power you need to use in camping and the total power output to determine the size you need.
3. How many hours a day can you run a portable generator?
Usually portable generator running 12 hours per day is enough for your camping or RV needs, of course, you can also run 24 hours, but based on the type and capacity of the portable generator.
| Series | Capacity | Ports | Recharge Time | Outdoor Appliances |
| Growatt Solar Generator VITA 550 | 538Wh | 5V/9V/12V/20V, 5A, 100W Max USB-C | Solar 200W: 2.5H | Light(6W): 76H |
| 5V /2.4A, 12W Max USB-A | Radio(100W): 4.5H | |||
| 5V /2.4A, 9V /2A, 12V /1.5A, 18W Max USB A-FAST Charge |
Laptop(50W): 9H | |||
| 13.2V /10A, 132W Max Car Outlet | Wall Charging: 1.6H | Drone(60Wh): 7Cycles | ||
| 13.2V /3A, 36W Max DC5521 Output | Car Charging(100W): 5.4H | Headphone(6Wh): 76Cycles | ||
| Growatt Solar Generator INFINITY 1300 | 1382Wh | 2 x 5V/9V/12V/15V/20V, 5A, 100W Max USB-C | Solar 800W: 2.5H | Light(10W): 117H |
| 2 x 5V/2.4A, 12W Max.USB-A | CPAP(65W): 18H | |||
| 2 X 5V/2.4A, 9V/2A,12V/1.5A, 18W Max.USB A-FAST Charge | Camera(10Wh): 117Cycles | |||
| 1 x 13.2V/10A, 132W Max.Car Outlet | Wall Charging: 1.8H | Drone(60Wh): 20Cycles | ||
| 2 x 13.2V/3A, 36W Max.DC5521 Output | Car Charging: Support 12V/24V Standards | Headphone(13Wh): 90Cycles | ||
| Growatt Solar Generator INFINITY 1500 | 1512Wh | 2 x 60W Max (5V/9V/15V/20V, 3A) USB-C | Solar 800W: 2.5H | Light(10W): 128H |
| 2 x 12W Max (5V, 2.4 A) USB-A | CPAP(60W): 21H | |||
| 2 x 18W Max (5V/9V/12V, 2.4A) Quick Charge 3.0 |
Laptop(65Wh): 19Cycles | |||
| 12-24V, 8A Max Car Outlet |
Wall Charging: 2H | Drone(60Wh): 21Cycles | ||
| Car Charging: Support 12V/24V Standards | Headphone(13Wh): 99Cycles |
4. What is the quietest generator for camping?
Without a doubt, the solar generator is the quietest of all portable generator types, and the noise it emits will not annoy your neighbors in camping or RV. This is one of the reasons why they are becoming more and more popular among outdoor sports enthusiasts.
