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Most people love them, others less so; but one of the handiest items you can have in your camping trailer or RV is a camping generator. There are restrictions on where you can run them in close proximity camping grounds and holiday parks and that varies from ‘no generators’ to restricted times and sound levels, which is understandable.
There’re quite a few camping generators out in the Australian market; some are good, some are not. Here we want to help you find the best generator for camping that works for you.
We’ve done some detailed and extensive research (so you don’t have to!) based on our own experiences and those of others to bring you these independent camping generator reviews. We won’t focus on bigger gen sets but more the portable camping generator reviews.
Our Pick Of The Best Generators For Camping In Australia For 2023
All major generator manufacturers offer a wide range of power outputs from their various models and types. We’ve focused on inverter generators in the range of 2kVA – 3.5kVA for this buying guide, as they offer the best mix of power output, weight, low noise and power quality. And in most cases a small generator for camping is all you really need.
So here are our picks for best inverter generator for camping.
We’ve picked two. Both are excellent products, and they’re in the more affordable price bracket.
The main players like Honda, Yamaha do produce excellent products, and we’ve reviewed them here. But they can be pricey!
However, for a portable generator to be in the ‘best generator for camping’ bracket, it must represent value for money. RV’ers and campers don’t often want to shell out big dollars. After all, it’s rarely a tax deduction for us.
Best Generator For Camping
This unit is our top pick because it’s great value for money, particularly if you’re looking for a bit more capability. We own the 2.2kVA model of this Gentrax generator and it’s been a great little unit. By far the best camping generator we’ve owned. It’s become a well known brand now amongst RV’ers, as it’s been around for a while so it’s stood the test of time.
It’s a best seller, and it offers 3.0kVA continuous, with 2 x 240V outlets, DC outlet. You’ll expect to get about 8 hours running on tank of juice and it weighs in at 28kg. It’s not too noisy at 58db, which is great as a quiet generator for camping.
Click here to take a look at the Gentrax 3.5kVA Inverter Generator.
- Great value for money (high capability at a low price)
- Reliability and durability
- About 8 hours of running time
- Lightweight and not too noisy
Overall this is an excellent unit, and well worth considering. It’s been around for a while, and comes with a good reputation.
It’s easy to start (first pull), quiet (52dBA on light load), extremely lightweight (20kgs), pure sinusoidal output (good for phones, laptops and anything with an electronic control unit in it), reliable and DC/USB outlets. It also has pretty good after sales support. RV’ers love this small camping generator, as it runs their air-con units with ease.
If there is a minus, it has a 1-year warranty. But that’s it.
It’s our ‘next best’ recommendation for the quietest generator for camping on the market.
Click here to take a look at the Cromtech Outback Generator.
- Excellent overall inverter generator
- Easy to start and very quiet
- Extremely lightweight and durable
- Reliable and a popular option
The Best Camping Generator Australia (2023) – Comparison Table
- Up to 8 hours run time
- Great value for money
- Reasonably quiet @ 58dB
- Starts up on first pull
- Not as quiet as our other top pick
- Easy start and very quiet
- Lightweight yet reliable and durable
- All around great unit
- Excellent value for money
- Only 1 year warranty
- Good mix of size, weight and price
- Well-made and robust
- Value for money
- Copes well with bigger load
- Not as quiet unless you use Eco Mode
- Hefty 3.0kVA (3.3 kVA Peak) continuous output
- Easy start motor
- Excellent value for money
- Fuel efficient and does the job required
- Bit on the heavy side at 34kg, but it's a robust unit
- Very well engineered
- Built to last
- Fires up on first pull
- Performs very well
- Heavier than others and pricier but performance is great
- Compact and sleek design
- Quiet and economical
- Competitive pricing for high level performance
- Easy, first pull starts
- Bit pricier than others with similar output but performance outweighs cost here
- Straightforward and easy to start
- More than acceptable noise level
- Sturdy and reliable unit
- Easy to store
- Continuous rating a bit low at 1.8kVA
And here are our extended reviews of each of these camping generators.
Generators For Camping Reviews, Australia 2023
We’ve owned a Gentrax generator for a few years, and find it a great unit. Easy to start, reliable as. This particular 3.5 kva generator model is very popular with outdoors people as it represents good value for money.
The only downside is they are a wee bit louder than most units. Not excessively, but just noticeably. But nothing like the jarring noise we used to get from generators years ago.
This silent generator for camping will run just about anything including most small air-con units as well as any sensitive electronics gear from.
If you’re looking for a lot more output capability, this one may just be what you’re looking for as it’s one of the best camping generator Australia has to offer.
They’re all pure sine wave generators so you can run just about anything in your camp.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 3.0kW
Weight: 28kg
Noise Level: 58 dBA (7 metres)
24oV AC Outlets: 2
12V DC Outputs: 12V/8.3A
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 56.5cm (W) x 32cm (W) x 47cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.7 L
Eco Mode: Yes
Running Time: 8 hrs
Warranty: 12 months
This Cromtech generator is in the category of best small generator for camping and RVs. We've used it and really like it.
It’s very easy to start, a great silent camping generator, lightweight, runs RV air-conditioning units with ease, has dual USB outlets, reliable and really does represent real value for money.
Mates who own one of these say it's the quietest camping generator they've used, and we tend to agree.
Our two top picks represent great value for different scenarios; the Gentrax generator is great for extended trips where you know you will be using it regularly for appliances, AC and even the fridge, whereas this Cromtech generator can also be used for all your camping and caravaning needs but just in a more compact unit.
Which one you go with really depends on your needs and preferences, but you can't go wrong with either.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 2.1kVA
Weight: 20.0 kg
Noise Level: 52dBA (light load) – 59 dBA (full load)
240V AC Outputs: 2
12V DC Outputs: 1 @ 8Amps + 2 @ 5V USB
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 51.2cm (L) X 31.5cm (W) X 44.7cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5 Litres
Eco Mode: Yes
Warranty: 1 Year
This Kings generator is a good, basic, value-for-money unit. They’re a bit more noisy than most, but are a solid, reasonable camping generator that will go the job it’s expected to do.
The AK products have been around for a while, and they work. And when it comes to a small generator for camping, that’s what you want.
Run time is about 3.5 hours on continuous load (which is a bit light on), 4-stroke easy start motor, twin 240V outlets. It doesn’t have a 12V DC outlet.
The lower fuel tank capacity affects the running time, but that’s how it is. However, they come in at 21kgs fully fueled, so it’s very portable.
Adventure Kings these days offer a 2 year warranty as well, which is nice to have in the back pocket.
Overall, it's a solid, efficient unit that gets the job done. It's nothing that will wow anyone, but at this price point when you need something that is reliable and capable, this is one you should be considering.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 2.0kVA
Weight: 21 kg
Noise Level: 59dBA (light load)/ 73 dBA (full load)
240V AC Outputs: 2
12V DC Outputs: None
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 55.5cm (L) X 32cm (W) X 46.5cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.1 Litres
Eco Mode: No
Running time: 3.5hrs
Warranty: 2 Years
This a more of an industrial unit, however it is still puts out a pure sine wave.
This will run almost all single phase power tools, appliances and air conditioners. It’s got a wrap-around steel cage so it can be tossed into the work vehicle through the week and then be used as a camping or caravan power plant when required.
It is a bit more noisy than most (especially the Kings 2kVA generator), but if you want the higher power output, this unit can produce it.
Twin 240V outlets, overload protection and economy mode all built in. Also, the nice thing is it has a manual circuit breaker, so the power to the 240V outlets can be turned off without switching off the unit.
Weight comes in at 34kg fully fueled, and seriously, that’s not bad for a high output pure sine wave generator. Some of the smaller units nudge that weight, without having anything near the output capacity. Noise wise it’s not too bad there either, given it’s a pretty beefy unit.
Well worth a look if you are interested in running your larger caravan or total campsite from one power source.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 3.0kVA
Weight: 34 kg
Noise Level: 66dBA (light load)/ 74 dBA (full load)
240V AC Outputs: 2
12V DC Outputs: None
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 42.5cm (L) X 44.5cm (W) X 44.5cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12 Litres
Eco Mode: Yes/Automatic
Running time: 5.5hrs
Warranty: 2 Years
The Yamaha inverter generator is well-engineered all round, with a lot of features that make it a good portable generator for both camping and RVs.
It has two large, top mounted carry handles to make moving it around so much easier, easy access for changing oil and filters, low exhaust emissions, quiet, comprehensive control panel including fuel gauge and 12Volt/8Amp DC outlet.
The big plus with this particular Yamaha generator is it’s pretty much a one pull start every single time.
Being rated at 2.4kVA means it has the capability to deliver that extra power to run small air-conditioners, fridges and appliances.
Yamaha inverter generators are high performance and is particularly popular with RV/caravan owners because of its ability to run small air-conditioning units.
The only downsides are price and weight. It’s not cheap and it’s damn heavy at 32kgs!
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 2.0kVA
Weight: 32 kg
Noise Level: 54dBA (light load)/ 59 dBA (full load)
240V AC Outputs: 2
12V DC Outputs: 1 @ 8Amps
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 52.7cm (L) X 41.9cm (W) X 46.1cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 6 Litres
Eco Mode: Smart Throttle
Warranty: 4 Years Manufacturer
If you’re searching for a high-quality generator, this Yamaha inverter generator is an excellent buy. The Yamaha Noise Block Sound Reduction System reduces noise levels to 52 decibels, making it one of the quietest generator for camping.
Controls are conveniently located on a single panel for simple navigation. It features an OHV engine with a cast iron cylinder liner for longer life, more power, and better heat dissipation.
One of the significant advantages that this small generator for camping has that many competitors lack is the Petrol Petcock, which aids in the prevention of contamination during storage.
Its modest and elegant form, as well as its weight of about 20 kg, make it incredibly popular. Furthermore, the Yamaha Smart Throttle automatically changes engine speed to match the needed output, enhancing fuel economy and noise reduction.
Other features include an oil warning system that prevents engine damage, an electrical overload breaker in case of overload, and an auto-decompression system that lowers compression for easy start-up.
It’s Yamaha’s versatility, powerful operation, and reliability that make it the premium Yamaha inverter generator choice.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Maximum Output (Watts)-2000 w
kVA-2.0 kVA
Voltage-230V
DC Output-Yes
Starting Method-Recoil
Fuel Tank Capacity-4.4L
Cont. Working Time-10.5 Hrs at 1/4 Load, 4.2 Hrs at Full Load
Fuel-Petrol
Noise @ 7m-51.5 dBA (1/4 load) / 61 dBA (full load)
Outlets-1 x 15A
Product Dimensions (mm) LxWxH-490x280x445 mm (L x W x H)
Net Weight (kg)-20.0 Kg
Manufacturers Warranty-4 year (domestic), 1 year (commercial)
This Briggs and Stratton generator unit is also popular with the RV market, being able to run most caravan appliances, including a range of air conditioning units.
The unit is quiet, and at the sound levels specified meets Australian National Parks noise limitations.
Like most inverter generators, it has the capability to run in parallel with another compatible unit to increase overall output.
There are other units on the market that have greater output, are lighter, less noisy and cheaper, but this Briggs and Stratton generator is solid all round.
It works the way it should, and powers everything you need it to.
All at a price point that is reasonable.
A well-made unit that should serve you well.
The only issue is the continuous rating is 1.8kVA, which is a bit on the low side for a unit billed as 2.4kVA.
Click here to read more reviews and check the current price.
Continuous Rated Output: 1.7kVA
Weight: 22.8 kg
Noise Level: 58 dBA (full load)
240V AC Outputs: 2
12V DC Outputs: 1 @ 5Amps
Starting System: Recoil/Pull
Dimensions: 50cm (L) X 31cm (W) X 45cm (H)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7 Litres
Eco Mode: Has a ‘QPT’ mode. See video for details.
Warranty: 3 Year
Benefits of Owning the Best Generators For Camping In Australia
Around a remote campsite, a portable camping generator can power a charger for topping up a solar deep-cycle battery when it’s been cloudy for a few days, running some small 240V AC appliances/tools and even using it as a small power source around your home. Its uses are limitless, really.
Again, thanks to the ongoing march of technology, the best small generator for camping has the following important things going for it.
- Ready Supply of High Quality 240V AC Power – most of the smaller, portable generators are called ‘inverter generators’, which is a more sophisticated way of producing a pure sinusoidal AC output. The voltage/current coming out of a power point in your home is a pure sinusoidal AC supply.
This is a superior quality output, and does not impact the operation of sensitive electronic equipment in devices such as laptops, mobile phones, modern camping fridges that have electronic/micro-computer thermostat controls etc.
- Portable 240 AC Power – you can have 240V power at any campsite or remote location. Just bring it with you. The units are relatively small and lightweight, and can be integrated into a camping trailer or RV; or operated standalone.
- Power at the Press of a Button with Remote/Electric Start – this is a great innovation coming into the small camping generator market. Remember the good old days of pulling on a starter cord? Well, that’s starting to disappear, to be replaced by you pressing a button.
- Quiet Operation – inverter generators tend to be much quieter than their bigger cousins. You can hear them, but it’s more like a soft purr rather than the roar/whine of the old-style generator in the still of the night.
What to Consider When Looking for the Best Camping Generator
Load Capability Considerations
kVA vs Real Power
kVA = Voltage (Volts AC) X Current (Amps AC) ÷1000
where AC stands for Alternating Current.
However, the load of many appliances and equipment is quoted in Watts or real power. But the load may require a higher kVA due to a little issue called ‘power factor’. Just a quick dip into electrical engineering; the rule of thumb for most loads that have electrical motors is around 0.8. So, the kVA rating gets multiplied by 0.8 to show what real load it’s capable of powering.
If you have a generator driving a motorised load that’s rated at 800 Watts, you will need 1000VA or 1kVA of capability – 1000VA X 0.8 = 800W.
Maximum Rating vs Continuous Rating
Maximum rating relates to short peaks in load, and becomes important when a motorised appliance is turned on while connected to the inverter generator. For example, an air-conditioning motor can draw up to twice its normal running current on start-up.
Inrush Current
It isn’t such a big issue with portable camping generators, because of the smaller loads involved with camping equipment (eg a camping fridge and camping lights). But if you are also using it in an RV and want it to drive the air conditioning unit, it may well be an issue.
When you size up what generator you think you’ll require, you need to take these factors into consideration.
Parallel Capability
If you and your mates are camping, and you have the same generator, then you can get a lot more capability than two running separately.
Quality of Output
The best technology for this is an inverter camping generator. Older styles of generators just don’t make the cut anymore.
The inverter generator achieves this by a multi-stage process of converting the generated AC output into DC and then converting it back to a pure sinusoidal AC output.
A measure of how pure the output is called total harmonic distortion (THD), and this should be 5% or less. High THD is the equivalent of being at a noisy party. So if you’ve ever asked yourself “What is an inverter generator?” now you know.
Fuel Efficiency/Fuel Tank Capacity
Weight/Portability
Engine Noise
Additional features to look for which help to keep the noise down are:
- Integrated silencer muffler
- Noise level suppression
- Totally enclosed casing
- Rubber isolation feet
- Quality construction and materials
For comparison, here are some typical sound levels from every day.
| Sound Source | Typical Level |
| Breathing | 10dBA |
| Gentle breeze rustling leaves | 20dBA |
| Quiet Room, like a library | 40dBA – 50dBA |
| Inverter camping generator | 50dBA – 60dBA |
| Normal Conversation | 60dBA – 65dBA |
| Heavy Traffic | 85dBA |
| Petrol Engine Lawnmower | 90dBA |
| Indoor Rock Concert | 120dBA+ |
Safety Considerations
- Don’t operate them in an enclosed space – avoid the build-up of toxic exhaust fumes.
- Keep them away from moisture/rain – electricity and moisture are not a good mix.
- If running it as a backup household supply in the event of a blackout, you must have an isolation switch in your fuse box. Otherwise 240V AC can be fed back onto the mains supply and seriously injure utility workers.
- Remember, this is a piece of kit that delivers power at mains voltage. It is, after all 240V AC, which can kill.
Power Limitation of Inverter Generators
Frequently Asked Questions
What size generator is best for camping?
Small generators (1000 – 2000 watts): These generators are typically suitable for charging small devices like phones, laptops, or powering a few led camping lights. They are also relatively lightweight and portable, making them a good choice for backpackers or those who don’t need a lot of power.
Medium generators (2000 – 3000 watts): These generators can handle larger devices like a small refrigerator, a portable heater, or a small air conditioning unit. They’re typically used by small to medium-sized families who are camping with a caravan or a larger tent.
Large generators (3000 – 5000 watts): These generators can power larger devices such as a full-sized refrigerator, a microwave, or a large air conditioning unit. They are typically used by larger families or groups camping with large caravans or motorhomes.
Remember to check the specific rules and regulations of the campsite or park you’re planning to visit, as they may have specific requirements or restrictions regarding the use of generators.
Can you run a generator inside a tent?
Always place the generator outside and away from sleeping areas, and ensure the exhaust is pointed away from your camping space. It’s also a good idea to use a carbon monoxide detector as an extra safety measure, particularly when sleeping in enclosed spaces like a caravan or motorhome.
In addition, generators can become hot while running and present a fire risk, so it’s important to keep them well away from any flammable materials.
What size generator do I need to run a camp fridge?
A standard portable camping fridge will usually consume between 50-150 watts when running, but the startup or surge power can be much higher, often around 1-2 times the running wattage. This is the initial power needed to start the compressor motor in the fridge.
A 1000-watt (1 kVA) generator is typically enough to run even the best camping fridge and a few other small devices. However, if you plan to power more appliances or devices simultaneously, such as camping led lights, chargers, or cooking equipment, you might need a generator with a higher power output.
Bear in mind that it’s generally a good idea to have a generator that provides more power than you need, so you have some buffer and so the generator isn’t running at maximum capacity all the time, which can shorten its lifespan.
Always refer to the wattage or power needs of your specific appliances and calculate the total power requirement. This will help you decide what size generator you need for your camping trip.
Do I really need a generator for camping?
Richard Simmons
What inverter generators are push button start ??