Best Inverter Generator for Camping 2021 Reviews – Generator Lead

Best inverter generators for camping

Nowadays, camping trips don’t mean that you have to give up your comfort. Inverter generators ensure that you can run all your appliances and gadgets, even in the woods. However, it is important to choose an inverter generator designed for being used during camping. For this reason, we have weighed the pros and cons, studied the features and specifications, and finally compiled a list of the Top 9 Best Inverter Generators for Camping. Let’s dive right in!

Best inverter generators for camping 2020 Reviews

Top 9 Best Inverter Generator for Camping Comparison Table:

Product Name
Top Pick
Honda EU2200i
Runner Up
WEN 56200i
Westinghouse iGen2500
Westinghouse iGen2200
Yamaha EF2200iS
Preview
Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant,Black & Orange
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen2500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator TrueTimber Kanati Camouflage 2200 Rated & 2500 Peak Watts, Gas Powered, CARB Compliant
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 2200 Peak Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time
YAMAHA EF2200iS Inverter Generator, 2200 Watts, Blue
Brand
Honda
WEN
Westinghouse
Westinghouse
Yamaha
Weight
40 Pounds
48 Pounds
48 Pounds
46 Pounds
55 Pounds
Color
Red and Black
Orange and Black
Camouflage
Blue and Black
Blue and Black
Top Pick
Product Name
Honda EU2200i
Preview
Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Brand
Honda
Weight
40 Pounds
Color
Red and Black
Runner Up
Product Name
WEN 56200i
Preview
WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant,Black & Orange
Brand
WEN
Weight
48 Pounds
Color
Orange and Black
Product Name
Westinghouse iGen2500
Preview
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen2500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator TrueTimber Kanati Camouflage 2200 Rated & 2500 Peak Watts, Gas Powered, CARB Compliant
Brand
Westinghouse
Weight
48 Pounds
Color
Camouflage
Product Name
Westinghouse iGen2200
Preview
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 2200 Peak Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time
Brand
Westinghouse
Weight
46 Pounds
Color
Blue and Black
Product Name
Yamaha EF2200iS
Preview
YAMAHA EF2200iS Inverter Generator, 2200 Watts, Blue
Brand
Yamaha
Weight
55 Pounds
Color
Blue and Black

Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

WEN 56200i

Best Inverter Generator under $500

Pros
  • Quiet
  • Portable
  • Ecofriendly
  • Stable power
Cons
  • Difficult to refill the engine oil

Features:

  • Colour: Black and orange
  • Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 18 inches
  • Weight: 48 pounds
  • Wattage: 2000W (surge), 1600W (running)
  • Outlets: 2x 3 pong 120V 20A, 1x5V USB, 1x12V DC 8.3A
  • Engine: 79.7 cc OHV 4 stroke
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1 gallon
  • Run Time: 9.4 hours at 1/4 load
  • EPA III and CARB compliant: Yes
  • Warranty: 2 years

Specifications:

  • Safe and stable power
  • Multiple outlets for different appliances
  • Parallel capability
  • 53 dba noise levels
  • Eco mode for efficiency

Our top pick for the best inverter generators for camping is the WEN 56200i. WEN never fails to impress with its efficient power production and this model is no exception. With 2000W surge power and 1600W running power, it can easily help run many appliances and electronics that you might need on your camping trip including pedestal fans, lights, and even some cooking appliances. The 79.7 cc OHV 4 stroke engine ensures that you can run your appliances while saving up on fuel costs using the eco mode.

It has a 1 gallon fuel time which provides run times of up to 9.4 hours at ¼ load. This means it will power your small appliances throughout the night. The WEN 56200i produces clean and stable power with minimal total harmonic distortion that can safely power sensitive devices such as mobile phones and televisions.

You can enjoy all your gadgets while you camp under the blue sky. If it does not meet your power requirements, you can parallel a link with another WEN inverter generator using the parallel WEN kit in order to generate double the power. It also has a super quiet operation with noise levels at just 53 dba so it won’t disturb you while you sleep peacefully at night. With its lightweight design, carrying it around will not be too much trouble.

However, refilling the engine oil is a difficult task and will be hard to do. Other than the maintenance, the WEN 56200i has all the perfect features of the best inverter generator for camping.

WEN 56200i infographic review


Honda EU2200i

Best Super Quiet Inverter Generator

Pros
  • Quiet
  • Portable
  • Stable power
  • Easy maintenance
Cons
  • Recoil start only

Features:

  • Colour: Black and red
  • Dimensions: 16 x 20 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 40 pounds
  • Wattage: 2200W (surge), 1800W (running)
  • Outlets: 120V 20A duplex
  • Engine: 121 cc
  • Run time: 4 to 9.6 hours
  • Warranty: 3 years

Specifications:

  • Safe and stable power
  • Multiple outlets for different appliances
  • Parallel capability
  • 48 to 57 dba noise levels
  • Fuel shut off to prevent stale oil
  • Easy maintenance

Honda has always delivered quality products. The Honda EU2200i lives up to Honda’s name with its quiet yet powerful operation. It delivers a maximum of 2200W along with a rated power of 1800W. This power can run small appliances that you might want to take with you on your camping trip. If you need to run some heavy-duty appliances, you can parallel link it to a similar power to get double the power supply.

Despite the good amount of power produced, the noise levels produced by this inverter generator are quite low which helps achieve a peaceful environment while camping. The Honda EU2200i also offers user-friendly features including an oil drain gutter and large spout for easy maintenance, low effort recoil as well as a fuel shut off valve that prevents stale oil by running the engine even after the fuel supply is cut off.

These make use of the generator easier for the users and also help enhance durability. Increased ventilation is essential in avoiding overheating of the generator which could cause damage to its components. It is lightweight which makes it more portable and more convenient for use during camping trips. It comes with a 3-year warranty which ensures its credibility.

One takeaway from this model is the fact that it has a recoil start only which is much more difficult than an easy electric or remote start featured in modern inverter generators. The Honda EU2200i is a good inverter generator especially designed for RV and camping needs.


Westinghouse iGen2500

Best 2500 Watts Inverter Generator

This powerhouse by Westinghouse fulfills all requirements for the best inverter generator for camping. The Westinghouse iGen2500 delivers peak power of 2500W which can easily help start even refrigerators and similar heavy-duty appliances. The 2200W rated power helps run appliances on your camping trip for up to 10 hours at quarter load on one full 1-gallon tank. The 3.4 HP 98cc OHV engine makes this efficient power delivery possible.

Using the eco made will help save up on fuel as power will be produced only based on requirements at outlets. Total Harmonic Distortion is less than 3% for the power produced which means you safely charge sensitive devices such as laptops and mobile phones. The Westinghouse iGen2500 is gas-powered and comes with multiple power outlets including 2 120V 20A as well as 2 USB outlets.

This lets you plug in multiple appliances at once. Noise levels are very low at just 52 dba which you won’t even notice when you’re out camping. The digital display helps you easily keep a check on fuel levels, run times as well as voltage and power output. It is also EPA, CARB as well as USFS compliant which shows it is quite eco-friendly. In addition, it is backed by a 3-year warranty.

It is, however, overall a little heavy and comes without wheels so portability might be an issue.
We are satisfied with the power production and advanced user-friendly features of the Westinghouse iGen2500 and we would recommend it to you.

Features:

  • Colour: Camouflage wood finish
  • Dimensions: 19.8 x 11.2 x 17.9 inches
  • Weight: 48.4 pounds
  • Wattage: 2500W (surge), 2200W (running)
  • Outlets: 2x120V 20A, 2x USB
  • Engine: 3.4 HP 98cc OHV
  • Run Time: 10 hours at quarter load
  • Warranty: 3 years

Specifications:

  • Safe and stable power
  • Multiple outlets for different appliances
  • Parallel capability
  • 52 dba noise levels
  • Digital display
  • EPA, CARB and USFS compliant
Pros
  • Quiet
  • Stable power
  • Eco-friendly
  • User friendly
Cons
  • Heavy

WEN 56225i

Best Fuel Shut-Off Inverter Generator

Pros
  • Stable power
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Efficient operation
  • Quiet
  • Parallel capability
Cons
  • High oil consumption

Features:

  • Colour: Orange and black
  • Weight: 48.5 pounds
  • Dimensions: 19 x 11.5 x 18.2 inches
  • Wattage: 2250W (surge), 1800W ( running)
  • Outlets: 2×3-pong 120V, 1x12V DC, 1x5V USB
  • Engine: 79.7 cc 4 stroke OHV
  • Run Time: 6 hours at half load
  • Fuel Tank: 1 gallon

Specifications:

  • Fuel shutoff feature
  • Eco-mode
  • 53 dba noise levels
  • Lightweight
  • Compact design
  • Stable power

The WEN 56225i is quiet as well as eco-friendly which makes it the perfect pick for your camping trip. It supplies 2250W peak power for heavy-duty appliances and operating power of 1800W which can easily run all the basic appliances you might need during camping. The power produced is stable and hence quite safe for mobile phones and similar gadgets.

. It also features multiple outlets as well as a USB port to allow you to plug in multiple appliances and gadgets. The 1-gallon fuel tank allows run times of up to 6 hours at ½ load. It is run by a 4 stroke OHV engine which helps provide maximum efficiency. It is also quite lightweight which makes it easier for you to move it around the camping site.

The WEN 56225i also features an eco-mode which ensures an efficient consumption of fuel based on the power requirements. It also has a super quiet operation with noise levels as low as 52 dba. In case you have a greater power requirement, you can link it up with another similar inverter generator for double power output.

There is also a fuel shut off feature that helps avoid the issue of stale oil by keeping the engine in motion even after you switch off the generator.  One issue with this model is its excessive oil consumption so maintenance might be a little expansive.
In conclusion, this is a pretty great inverter generator for camping needs and you should give it a shot.


B&S 30675 Q6500

Best Generator for Home Backup

Pros
  • Efficient
  • Portable
  • High power output
  • Compact design
Cons
  • Expensive

Features:

  • Colour: Red and black
  • Weight: 138 pounds
  • Dimensions: 25.53 x 21.12 x 21.43 inches
  • Wattage: 6500W (surge), 5000W ( running)
  • Outlets: 4x120V 20A, 1x120V-240V locking, 2x5V USB
  • Run Time: 14 hours at quarter load
  • Fuel Tank: 5 gallons

Specifications:

  • 66 dba noise levels at 25% load
  • Wheels and handle attached
  • Compact design
  • RV adapter
  • Efficient operation

This powerhouse can survive through camping trips and provide the longest of run times. It has earned a place among the best inverter generators for camping. The Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 delivers a sunning power of 5000W along with surge power of 6500W which can start up all heavy-duty appliances and tools effortlessly.

It gives 14 hours of run time at quarter load which means you can run your fans, lights, and even RV air conditioner all night and sleep peacefully. The compact design makes it suitable for outdoor use as you can easily store it in a small space and it won’t get in your way. The 5-gallon fuel tank ensures efficient and continuous power for extended periods of time.

The Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 also features multiple outlets and receptacles so that you can run as many appliances as you want at the same time. Noise levels are at 66 dba at quarter load. It has also proved to be 30% more efficient than other inverter generators at quarter load which saves you fuel costs and provides optimum power at the same time.

Wheels and a handle make portability easier so you can easily drag it around like a suitcase around the camping site or on the way. It also comes with a 2-year consumer as well as a 1-year commercial warranty so you don’t have to worry about faults early on.

However, this is an expansive model and is likely to put some users out of their budget. The Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 gives a powerful and efficient operation which is why it will be worth the cost.


Westinghouse iGen2200

Best CARB Compliant

Pros
  • Efficient
  • Quiet
  • Safe power
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Fuel needs to be completely emptied out

Features:

  • Colour: Black and blue
  • Weight: 43 pounds
  • Dimensions: 20.3 x 12.5 x 17.8 inches
  • Wattage: 2200W (surge), 1800W (running)
  • Engine: 79cc 4-stroke OHV
  • Outlets: 2x 120V, 1x12V DC
  • Run Time: 13 hours at quarter load
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.3 gallons
  • Warranty: 3 year

Specifications:

  • Multiple outlets
  • Parallel capability
  • Economy mode
  • 52 dba noise levels
  • Stable power

The Westinghouse iGen2200 is a decent generator for camping and will fulfill basic needs. With 1800W of rated power, it can easily help run all basic appliances required at camping. It also delivers 220W of surge power in case you need to start up a slightly heavy-duty appliance such as an RVB air conditioner or an iron.

Total Harmonic Distortion is lower than 3% which makes the power stable enough to safely charge gadgets and mobile phones. Multiple AC, as well as DC outlets, allow you to plug in various appliances. The 1.2-gallon fuel tank helps deliver run times of up to 13 hours at quarter load which is quite decent.

The Westinghouse iGen2200 has a super quiet operation with noise levels at barely 52 dba which won’t even be noticeable at the camping site. The unit also has an economy mode in case you’re short on fuel and need to use the generator. It optimizes fuel usage according to the power requirements at outlets.

It can also be parallel linked with another Westinghouse for greater power output. It has been manufactured keeping environmental issues in mind as it is EPA, CARB as well as USFS compliant. It is also backed by a 3-year warranty that covers service, labor, and parts.

It is required, however, to empty out the fuel in the tank before shutting down the generator which might result in fuel wastage. Otherwise, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is a good generator and has rightfully landed a place among the best inverter generators for camping.


Yamaha EF2200iS

2200 Watts Inverter Generator

Pros
  • Easy start up
  • Advanced features
  • Low noise levels
  • Efficient
  • RV adapter included
Cons
  • Expensive

Features:

  • Colour: Black and blue
  • Weight: 55.2 pounds
  • Dimensions: 21.9 x 11.8 x 18.5 inches
  • Wattage: 2200W (surge), 1800W (running)
  • Engine: 79cc 4-stroke OHV
  • Run Time: 10.5 hours at quarter load
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.24 gallons
  • Warranty: 3 year

Specifications:

  • 57 dba noise
  • Gasoline fueled
  • Digital display
  • Smart throttle
  • Dial knob startup

Yamaha has been among the pioneers of quality inverter generators. The Yamaha EF2200iS is a quality product of Yamaha with top-notch features. It is operated by a 79 cc engine which helps deliver optimum power. It is also fitted with a muffler in order to reduce the noise levels to 57 dba for a quiet operation suitable for camping needs.

It delivers a power output of 2200W which you use to power fans, lights, RV air conditioners, and various other camping appliances. It also features a DC RV outlet for your convenience so that you can plug in your electronics without any effort. The Yamaha EF2200iS also features an illuminated digital display which makes it easier for you to check fuel levels and power output.

The 1.24-gallon fuel tank gives 10 and a half hours of run times at quarter load. Starting up is made super easy by the smart dial knob. In addition, the smart throttle makes operation more efficient by adjusting output according to the requirement. In case of overload, you can use the handy overload reset button to quickly restore power without having to restart the inverter generator.

It can also be parallel linked with a similar model for greater power output. It comes with a 3 year Yamaha warranty. However, this model is quite expansive so you will have to consider your budget before investing in it. It is a good inverter generator with efficient and user-friendly features and you shout definitely consider giving it a shot.


Generac 7117 GP2200i

Parallel Ready Inverter Generator

Pros
  • User friendly
  • Lightweight
  • Efficient
  • Parallel capability
Cons
  • Doesn’t automatically shut down on overheating

Features:

  • Colour: Black and orange
  • Weight: 46 pounds
  • Dimensions: 19 x 11 x 17 inches
  • Wattage: 2200W (surge), 1700W (running)
  • Run Time: 10.75 hours at quarter load
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.2 gallons
  • Warranty: 2 years

Specifications:

  • Multiple outlets and USB ports
  • Handle for portability
  • LED indicators
  • Economy mode
  • Simple knob startup

The Generac 7117 GP2200i has an efficient operation and a one of a kind design. With 1700W rated and 2200W surge power, it is capable of operating small appliances that you might require on your camping trip including fans, lights, and even some kitchen appliances. This power is quite safe and stable and can be used for gadgets and sensitive electronics.

It has a 1.2-gallon tank that can keep electronics running for almost 11 hours at quarter load. This is more than enough time for you to relax and enjoy refueling. You can parallel connect two of these if you need more power for running heavy-duty electronics. The Generac 7117 GP2200i has various features that optimize its operation. The economy mode helps deliver maximum fuel economy which helps cut down on fuel costs.

It also helps in reducing noise levels for quiet operation. The LED status lights give an indication in case of overload or low oil levels. A simple knob makes startup extremely easy so that it’s not stressful. It is not only lightweight but also comes with a handle to make it easier for you to carry it. It is backed by a 2-year warranty.

One issue with this model is that it does not shut down automatically on overheating which may be a safety issue. The Generac 7117 GP2200i is an efficient and quiet inverter that will serve you well on your camping trips.


Westinghouse iGen4200

Open Frame Inverter Generator

Pros
  • Heavy duty output
  • Safe power
  • Stable
  • Long run times
Cons
  • Heavy

Features:

  • Colour: Black and blue
  • Weight: 80 pounds
  • Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 20 inches
  • Wattage: 4200W (surge), 3500W (running)
  • Outlets: 1x RV TT-30R, 1x 5-20R, USB
  • Engine: 212cc 4 stroke OHV
  • Run Time: 18 hours at quarter load
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 2.6 gallons
  • Run Time: 18 hours at quarter load
  • Warranty: 3 years

Specifications:

  • Stable power with low THD
  • Multiple outlets
  • Stable design
  • High power output

Lastly, we have picked the Westinghouse iGen4200 for the list of best inverter generators for camping. It gives a rated power output of 3500W which can easily handle even heavy-duty appliances. It is run by a 212cc OHV 4 stroke engine which ensures an efficient and powerful operation. The 2.6-gallon tank is capable of giving run times of around 18 hours at quarter load which is one of the longest in this list.

The power output is stable with a low THD which makes it safe for electronics with sensitive microprocessors. There are multiple outlets on this unit that you can use for different devices simultaneously. The Westinghouse iGen4200 has noise levels at just 62 dba which is similar to a normal conversation. The set-up of this inverter generator is easy and user friendly and does not require a lot of effort.

The open-frame design of the Westinghouse iGen4200 makes it stable and prevents it from slipping or falling on the muddy ground. It can easily be started using a remote which is very convenient. It features various outlets for serving multiple devices at once. It is also CARB and EPA compliant which makes it eco-friendly. It comes with a 3-year labor, service, and parts warranty.

One issue with this model is its heavy design which might pose portability issues. We are satisfied with the operation and features of this model and we would recommend it for camping use.

(FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions

What size generator do I need for camping?

A 2000W to 3000W inverter generator is sufficient for camping needs.

Can you run a generator overnight?

You can run an inverter generator overnight if its run time is over 8 hours.

What is considered a quiet generator?

A quiet generator has noise levels around 50-60 dba.

Conclusion

Inverter generators have various uses including supply of power during camping. They make you camping trips fun and more comfortable. However, choosing the perfect inverter generator for camping requires a lot of research and proper assessment of you requirements. We have shortlisted 9 of the best inverter generators for camping for your convenience. Now it is up to you to choose the one which best suits you. Best of luck!

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