4 Best Small Generator for Camping (Guide and FAQs)

I am very fond of camping and what I love most about it is entertainment, but peace is a must. At the same time, a portable camping generator doubles my pleasure.

I have invested in several camping generators, and some of them that are the best I am going to review here.

best small generators for camping
best small generators for camping

These best small generators for camping meet all your off-grid needs, and you run your devices and appliances safely.

Furthermore, they are also lightweight and fuel-efficient, so you do not mind carrying them in any way.

Before going further, let’s know the best option for you.

At a Glance:

  1. Best Small Portable Generator for Camping – Westinghouse WH2200iXLT
  2. Best Small Generator for Camping – YAMAHA EF2000iSv2
  3. Best Small Quiet Generator for Camping – Westinghouse iGen1200
  4. Best Small Inverter Generator for Camping – Jackery Portable Generator

Best Small Generators for Camping Comparison

Preview Product Type Rating Price
westinghouse wh2200ixlt super quiets Best Small Portable Generator for Camping 4.3 Check Price
yamaha ef2200is inverter generator Best Small Generator for Camping 4.6 Check Price
westinghouse igen2200 super quiets Best Small Quiet Generator for Camping 4.4 Check Price
jackery portable power station explorers Best Small Inverter Generator for Camping 4.7 Check Price

Westinghouse WH2200iXLT

Wattage: 1600 watts | Power source: Gas Powered | Voltage: 120 Volts | Fuel Type: Gasoline | Weight: 48 lbs. | Engine type: 4 Stroke | Runtime: 9.4 hours | Noise: 53 dB | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 2 Years

Weighing 43 Lbs, Westinghouse WH2200iXLT is a powerful best small portable generator for camping, and its lightweight profile makes it an ideal choice for camping.

It is extremely quiet and performs operations at 52 dBA, around which you can have conservation.

Portability & Power

What I loved most about the Westinghouse are its lightweight and easy-to-carry design.

It features a built-in durable handle for convenient carry to camping or any outdoor sport.

Once you fill the 1.3 gas gallon, you can use it for 13 hours.

To increase the backup and fuel efficiency, switch to the “Economy Mode.”

westinghouse wh2200ixlt super quiets
westinghouse wh2200ixlt super quiets

Usually, a Westinghouse generator delivers 2000 Watts, but you can increase its power by parallel combining another generator.

Attach two WH2200iXLT models to run heavy- machines irrespective of anything.

The best small portable generator for camping features two 120VAC power outlets with one 12V DC socket to charge devices.

Its very function is labeled with guidance for easy understanding.

Brand & Affordability

Westinghouse is an American corporation known for its high-quality appliances.

I have been using its generator for five years but have never been disappointed۔

WH2200iXLT is the best small generator for camping that is a powerful yet affordable option on our list. You can buy it for under $500.

Why It’s Great
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight yet durable
  • Support parallel connection
  • Great fuel economy
  • Multiple power outlets
  • Economy Mode
Flaws but not Deal Breakers
  • No major cons

Why Should You Buy It?

Westinghouse WH2200iXLT is the most popular generator for best generators for tailgating and camping.

It can run your heavy appliances for a long time without taking a breath. The generator is lightweight, so you can easily carry it anywhere.

YAMAHA EF2000iSv2

Wattage: 1600 watts | Power source: Gas Powered | Voltage: 120 Volts | Fuel Type: Gasoline | Weight: 48 lbs. | Engine type: 4 Stroke | Runtime: 9.4 hours | Noise: 53 dB | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 3 Years

If you are looking for a powerful generator that might run all your heavy appliances, then Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is perfect.

It is equipped with expensive innovative throttle technology that varies the engine speed based on load and usage.

Power & Portability

The generator has the latest controller with advanced programming for improved performance.

It powers more tasks between 1600w-2000w with greater fuel efficiency.

What I loved most about the Yamaha generator was its intelligent throttle-sensing technology.

It automatically senses the load and adjusts the engine RPMs to perform operations more economically for a long-time.

yamaha ef2200is inverter generator
yamaha ef2200is inverter generator

The Twin tech parallel system allows you to connect two same generators for increased wattage and amperage.

It has the latest mufflers to reduce maximum noise, which is impressive.

All the maintenance and oil changes are easy even. You can do your own.

Brand & Affordability

Yamaha is a famous manufacturer that believes in its high-quality products.

It has introduced various camping generators, but EF2000iSv2 has some essential qualities that others do not provide.

However, it is an expensive choice, and you can buy it for under $1200, but a one-time investment can save time and a lot of money in the long term.

Why It’s Great
  • Stable wattage
  • Operations quietly
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Converter system
  • PWM controller
  • Fuel efficient
  • Runtime is 10.5 hours
Flaws but not Deal Breakers
  • Less outlets choices

Why Should You Buy It?

I am using Yamaha EF2000iSv2 for my off-grid needs, and I recommend it for its quality and economical use.

It has throttle technology; as a result, it has become more fuel-efficient.

Overall, it is a perfect choice to run devices and appliances with peace of mind.

Westinghouse iGen1200

Wattage: 1600 watts | Power source: Gas Powered | Voltage: 120 Volts | Fuel Type: Gasoline | Weight: 48 lbs. | Engine type: 4 Stroke | Runtime: 9.4 hours | Noise: 52 dB | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 2 Years

Simplicity meets sophistication in the Westinghouse iGen1200 generator.

It is a lightweight, super quiet, and powerful best small generator for camping that can cater to all your off-grid needs.

What makes it an ideal generator for campsites is its sound profile.

Power & Portability

iGen1200 generator produces clean and stable wattage to safely run your appliances and devices such as laptops, TV, or portable burners.

Several power outlet options make it a great choice as a backup for power outages.

It weighs 46 Lbs. that you do not mind carrying for camping or any outdoor sport. The robust handle is comfortable to grip.

westinghouse igen2200 super quiets
westinghouse igen2200 super quiets

I experienced a 9-hour consistent power backup with its 0.8 Gal Fuel Tank.

Comparatively to the WH2200iXLT model, it does not provide more extended power backup.

However, it is the best small quiet generator for camping that has a very sound and lightweight profile.

Brand & Affordability

Westinghouse is a reliable manufacturer with an excellent name for producing high-quality home appliances.

It has introduced several economic generators, but the iGen1200 is famous for its significant specification.

It is enough to cater to home needs in power outages.

Why It’s Great
  • Compact
  • 42 Lbs. weight
  • Tranquil experience
  • Available with a 3-year warranty
Flaws but not Deal Breakers
  • Less number of outlets

Why Should You Buy It?

There are various reasons we recommend the Westinghouse iGen generator.

It is lightweight and super-quiet (52 dBA), which is no doubt the best choice for camping. There are several power outlet options in the panel.

Furthermore, you can also combine two parallel generators to increase the wattage and amperage.

Jackery Portable Generator

Wattage: 1600 watts | Power source: Gas Powered | Voltage: 120 Volts | Fuel Type: Gasoline | Weight: 48 lbs. | Engine type: 4 Stroke | Runtime: 9.4 hours | Noise: 53 dB | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 2 Years

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorers 160 mini power station is designed to power up your maximum devices with its clean and stable output.

It features 240Wh power to light up your home and heavy appliances. The best part is its price, and you can buy it for under $150.

Power & Portability

The Jackery generator is as light as the standard bag of apples but can power up your entire home.

It is packed with a lithium battery weighing only 6 pounds.

The compact built-in handle makes it easy to carry for camping. Its panel has several power outlet options, including 1 x Pure Sine Wave AC (110V 200W 400W Peak), 1 x 12V DC carport, and 2 x USB-A ports.

jackery portable power station explorers
jackery portable power station explorers

You can charge it with the SolarSaga 60 solar panel, which is a pretty impressive feature.

It is the best small inverter generator for camping with a built-in MPPT controller that allows operating the solar at its maximum power.

Brand & Affordability

Jackery portable generators are well-known for combining solar stations with portable power stations.

It is worth $150 and features several functions that other expensive camping generators do not provide.

Why It’s Great
  • Lightweight
  • Variety of outlets
  • Easy to start
  • Affordable
  • Solar power station
  • Super-quiet
  • Doesn’t require gas
Flaws but not Deal Breakers
  • Long charging time

Why Should You Buy It?

Jackery is the best inverter generator for camping and has a built-in system to attach solar plates and a power station.

It is the quietest gen that you can use for tailgating and camping experiences.

Summary : Best Small Generators for Camping

Preview Product Type Rating Price
westinghouse wh2200ixlt super quiets Best Small Portable Generator for Camping 4.3 Check Price
yamaha ef2200is inverter generator Best Small Generator for Camping 4.6 Check Price
westinghouse igen2200 super quiets Best Small Quiet Generator for Camping 4.4 Check Price
jackery portable power station explorers Best Small Inverter Generator for Camping 4.7 Check Price

Final Verdict

I listed all in the top class and most reviewed best small generator for camping.

There are several opinions, but I love the Yamaha generator most because it is fuel-efficient and quality.

Its backup lasts up to 15 hours consistently, and you can use it irrespective of load.

The lightweight profile makes it an ideal choice for camping and tailgating.

However, the Jackery Portable generator is a perfect choice if you are running on a limited budget.

It features solar inverter technology, and you can attach solar plates to cater to off-grid needs.

Furthermore, switch to economical mode; you can use it for devices in the range 1600w-2200w.

Best Small Generator for Camping – FAQs

Which Camping Generator Is Quietest?

The Westinghouse iGen1200 is going to be the quietest small generator on our list, coming in at a noise level as low as 52 dB.

How Far Away From A Tent Should I Setup My Generator?

It’s a great idea to keep your generator at least 23 feet away from the tent if you want it for safety reasons.

Make sure there aren’t any other sources of sound that could set off an echo or cause vibrations because they will resonate in another room when combined with the generator’s noise levels!

What are Safety Tips When Using A Generator On A Trailer?

  • Keep The Generator Dry.
  • Keep your generator away from public areas and ensure it’s used in an open area.
  • Make sure that you secure the fuel source, including oil tanks on-site as well!
  • Be aware of where flammable products are located nearby so they don’t catch fire when exposed to excessive heat or sparks from a high-activity environment.
  • Be smart and ensure that your generator is in good shape before using it.
  • This way, you can enjoy some peace of mind, knowing that there’s nothing else happening nearby to get any more on-site electricity from!

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