Camping Power Generator: Top 7: Review & Buying Guide

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As the weather gets warmer, many of us start planning our camping trips.
When you’re planning a camping trip, one of the first things you need to think about is how you’re going to power all your electronic devices.

Sure, you could just leave them at home, but then you’d miss out on all the fun of posting pictures of your camping adventure on social media. And, let’s be honest, you’re not really roughing it if you don’t have any pictures to show for it.

Product
Top Pick
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
Premium Choice
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
Best Price
Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
Title
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Amazon Prime
Pros
Lightweight and portable
Battery life
Fast charging
Top Pick
Product
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
Title
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
Prime
Amazon Prime
Pros
Lightweight and portable
My preview
Premium Choice
Product
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
Title
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
Prime
-
Pros
Battery life
My preview
Best Price
Product
Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
Title
Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
Prime
Amazon Prime
Pros
Fast charging
My preview
So, what’s the solution? A camping power generator, of course! A generator will allow you to power all your devices, so you can stay connected even while you’re out in the middle of nowhere.

A camping power generator is a small, portable device that provides electricity for camping trips. It is usually powered by a gas engine and can be used to power small appliances, lights, and other electronic devices.

There are different types of generators from classic gasoline and diesel to solar generators for camping.
But with so many generators on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? In this camping generator review, we will tell you how to choose the best generator for camping, without overpaying for unnecessary functions.

7 Best Generator for Travel: Reviewed

  1. Jackery Explorer 240 – Top Pick
  2. BLUETTI AC200MAX – Premium Choice
  3. Takki 83Wh Portable Power Station – Best Price
  4. MARBERO M82 Power Station
  5. Westinghouse iGen160s
  6. ALLWEI-300WGEN
  7. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500

1. Jackery Explorer 240

Sale
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
18,753 Reviews
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
  • EASY TO CARRY: This entry-level portable power station is equipped with a 240Wh lithium-ion battery pack, weighing only at 6.6 pounds. The solid handle makes it easy to carry around for outdoor adventures such as Tent Camping, Road Trip, Backyard Camping, etc.
As the nights get longer and the weather gets cooler, many of us are looking for ways to extend our camping season. For some, that means using a portable power station to keep our essential devices powered up and running.

The Jackery Explorer 240 is a great option for those who need to keep their CPAP machines running while camping. This portable power station has a 240-watt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, making it able to power most small devices for hours on end. It also has a pass-through charging feature, meaning you can charge your devices while the power station is plugged into an outlet. This is one of the best camp generators.


PROS:
  • Lightweight and portable;
  • Easy to use;
  • Solar-powered recharging option
CONS:
  • Some customers have experienced issues with the unit automatically shutting off

2. BLUETTI AC200MAX

BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
998 Reviews
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh Solar Generator Expandable to 8192Wh, 5 2200W AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Battery for Camping, Emergency
  • [Powerful Beast] - AC200MAX power station comes with amazing 2048Wh LFP cells and a 2200W inverter, making it a safe and reliable power center on the way or off-the-grid.
Portable power stations are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to have power when they are away from traditional sources. The BLUETTI AC200MAX is a portable power station that comes with amazing 2048Wh LFP cells and a 2200W inverter.

This makes it a safe and reliable power center on the way or off the grid. The AC200MAX is also expandable, supporting 2 BLUETTI B300s (3072Wh) for a whopping 8192Wh or 2 B230s (2048Wh) for 6144Wh. This gives you plenty of power to juice up all of your devices.

The AC200MAX also features super fast charging, taking up to 900W from solar input and 400W from the AC input. With dual charging, you can feed it up in less than 2 hours. The AC200MAX also has 16 ports for every need, including NEMA TT-30 and 12V/30A DC ports, perfect for RV dwellers. There are also plenty of USB ports, as well as a 100W PD port. The wireless chargers allow you to charge compatible devices wirelessly.

If you are looking for a portable power station that is safe, reliable, and expandable, the BLUETTI AC200MAX is a great option. With its super-fast charging and 16 ports, it is perfect for any situation.


PROS:
  • Touchscreen display;
  • Battery life;
  • Build quality
CONS:
  • The solar charge time is a bit longer

3. Takki 83Wh Portable Power Station

Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
871 Reviews
Takki Portable Power Station 83Wh, Camping Solar Generator Power Bank with 110V/80W AC Outlet, USB Type-C Port, Camping Light Lithium Battery Power for Home Emergency Battery Backup Laptop
  • 【Designed For Mobility】The multi-interface output portable power stations support fast charging function for laptop, cell phones, iPad, Switch, camera, LED light, speakers, camping fan etc. Also serves as an emergency charging station for camping supplies within 80W such as drones, CPAP machine, 12 volt refrigerator, camping air conditioner, etc. (Solar Panel Not Included)
Takki’s 83Wh Portable Power Station is a great choice for those who need a reliable and affordable portable power source. The power station features 1x 110V/80W (Peak 120W) AC outlet, 2x USB port (18W QC3.0), and 1x USB C port (PD 30W) that deliver stable and secure power.

It also has an LED flashlight with four different levels of brightness and SOS mode. The power station is charged via AC adapters, car chargers, or in direct sunlight via 12-22 volt solar panels (not included).

The Takki 83Wh Portable Power Station is a great choice for camping, overland journey, air travel, and other outdoor activities. It is also a great choice for emergency situations. The power station is easy to carry and has a solid handle. It also has heat dissipation holes that are designed on the back.

The power station also has a safe battery management system that supports overload, over-voltage, over current, over temperature, and short circuit protection during charging. This is one of the best cheap generators for camping.


PROS:
  • Multi-interface output;
  • Fast charging;
  • LED flashlight
CONS:
  • Solar panels are not included

4. MARBERO M82 Power Station

Sale
MARBERO 88Wh Portable Power Station 24000mAh Camping Solar Generator(Solar Panel Not Included) Lithium Battery Power 110V/80W AC, DC, USB QC3.0, LED Flashlight for CPAP Home Camping Emergency Backup
4,193 Reviews
MARBERO 88Wh Portable Power Station 24000mAh Camping Solar Generator(Solar Panel Not Included) Lithium Battery Power 110V/80W AC, DC, USB QC3.0, LED Flashlight for CPAP Home Camping Emergency Backup
  • 🧳PORTABLE & COMPACT: Super slim size (6.5 x 4.6 x 3.1 inches) and light weight (2.4 lbs). Portable power station with compact handle design is not only for emergency power at home, but also for camping or wherever you need power when on the go. Perfect for school students to charge phone, laptop, iPad, PSP, camera, wireless headphones, etc.
The MARBERO M82 Power Station is a portable power station that is super slim and lightweight. It is perfect for students to charge their phones, laptops, and other devices.

The portable power station is equipped with 88Wh (24000mAh, 3.7V) capacity, 2*QC 3.0 USB ports (18W max), 2*USB ports (5V 2.4A), 1*USB C port (PD2. 0.18W max). 1*DC port(12-16.8V / 10A, 13A max), 1*2 pole and 1* 3 pole output socket (80W running, 120W peak).

The portable power station also has a 3-level LED flashlight that can be used in different modes. The power station can be charged via an AC outlet or with a solar panel. It also has a Battery Management System (BMS) that allows for voltage control, temperature control, and more advanced safety operations.


PROS:
  • Very slim and lightweight;
  • Comes with a number of different ports;
  • Has a bright LED flashlight
CONS:
  • May not hold a charge as advertised

5. Westinghouse iGen160s

Sale
Westinghouse 155Wh 150 Peak Watt Portable Power Station and Solar Generator, Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Backup Lithium Battery for Camping, Home, Travel, Indoor/Outdoor Use (Solar Panel Not Included)
3,647 Reviews
Westinghouse 155Wh 150 Peak Watt Portable Power Station and Solar Generator, Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Backup Lithium Battery for Camping, Home, Travel, Indoor/Outdoor Use (Solar Panel Not Included)
  • VERSATILE OUTLETS CHARGE UP TO 9 DEVICES AT THE SAME TIME: Pushing 100 Rated Watts and 150 Peak Watts Through (2) 120V Household Outlets, (2) USB Ports, (1) Quick Charge USB Port, (1) USB-C Port, (3) 6mm 9-12V DC Outlets - Strong Enough to Easily Power a 36" LED TV, Box Fans, or Heated Blankets.Low voltage protection, short circuit protection, and overload protection protects the battery and connected devices to ensure peace of mind and reliability
As portable power stations go, the Westinghouse iGen160s is a great option. It’s lightweight and backpack-ready, yet still powerful enough to charge a 36″ LED TV, box fan, or heated blanket.

With 155 watt-hours of lithium-ion battery capacity, it can keep a smartphone charged up to 17 times, or a drone up to 23 times. The iGen160s also features a built-in device and battery protection, so you can rest assured that your electronics are safe.


PROS:
  • Can power a variety of devices;
  • Lightweight and portable;
  • 2-year coverage
CONS:
  • At 3.75 lb. the iGen160s is not as light as some other portable generators on the market

6. ALLWEI-300WGEN

Sale
ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W(Peak 600W), 280Wh Solar Generator with USB-C PD60W, 110V Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, 78000mAh Backup Lithium Battery for CPAP Outdoor Camping Travel Emergency Home Use
1,532 Reviews
ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W(Peak 600W), 280Wh Solar Generator with USB-C PD60W, 110V Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, 78000mAh Backup Lithium Battery for CPAP Outdoor Camping Travel Emergency Home Use
  • 🚗【High Capacity & 300W Portable Power Station】The outdoor&indoor generator has 280Wh/78000mAh capacity, surge 600W, silent cooling fan, 3-level LED light&SOS mode, support discharge&recharge. Perfect as portable power bank for emergency power supply, outdoor activities and home backup use, climping, RV/Van trip.
The ALLWEI-300WGEN is a great choice for a portable power station. It is equipped with EV-grade lithium batteries and pure sine wave AC outlets to provide stable and secure power.

The clear LCD screen shows all power station operating status easily and timely. The power station is lightweight at 6.5 LBS, making it easy to carry. It also has a regulated car cigarette lighter plug and three DC ports. The USB-C port supports fast charging 60W.
There are also two USB-A ports and an LED camping light with four modes: Tent light, Explore Light, Reading Light, and SOS Emergency Rescue.

The power station can recharge itself and power up to 9 devices. It also supports charging from an AC wall outlet and car lighter plug. The ALLWEI-300WGEN has ETL certifications and an ultra-safe battery management system. Automotive-grade batteries make your outdoor adventures more wonderful.


PROS:
  • Can run AC while charging;
  • The display can be turned off;
  • The display shows how much time is left on the battery
CONS:
  • You can’t run the AC and the DC at the same time

7. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500

Sale
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500, 518Wh Outdoor Solar Generator Mobile Lithium Battery Pack with 110V/500W AC Outlet for Home Use, Emergency Backup,Road Trip Camping (Solar Panel Optional)
8,671 Reviews
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500, 518Wh Outdoor Solar Generator Mobile Lithium Battery Pack with 110V/500W AC Outlet for Home Use, Emergency Backup,Road Trip Camping (Solar Panel Optional)
  • LONG LASTING ENDURANCE: The Explorer 500 portable power station is built with the lithium-ion battery pack, in a safely designed frame structure to maximize, and long last the power for every single use of outdoor adventures and home use.
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is a compact and reliable choice for scenarios of camping, road-trip, RV, and home backup. It features 1* AC outlet (110V 500W 1000W Peak), 3*USB-A ports, 2* DC ports, and 1 carport.

The Battery Management System governs each individual cell, improving the battery life cycle while being pass-through charged. The power station is built with the lithium-ion battery pack, in a safely designed frame structure to maximize, and long last the power for every single use of outdoor adventures and home use.


PROS:
  • Lightweight and portable;
  • Enough power to run many appliances;
  • Pass-through charging
CONS:
  • May does not have enough power for some appliances

Buyer’s Guide: Camping power generator

The best camping power generator will depend on your specific needs. If you need a generator for long-term camping, you will need to consider a different model than if you are only going to use it for a weekend trip. You don’t often have to use a high-power generator camping as it is easier to take a less powerful generator with you. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a camping power generator.

Size

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a generator is the size. You need to make sure that it is small enough to take with you camping, but also large enough to power all of your devices. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a generator that is at least 1,000 watts.
blue generator against the backdrop of nature

Runtime

How long do you need the generator to run? If you are only going to use it for a few hours, you don’t need one that has a long runtime. If you are going to be using it for days or weeks, you will need a generator with a longer runtime.

Fuel Type

The basis of any generator is the conversion of some kind of energy into electricity. According to the method of obtaining this energy, electric generators can be divided into the following groups:

  • gasoline;
  • diesel;
  • inverter;
  • wind;
  • solar-powered;
  • getting energy while a person is moving.

Gasoline

Advantages and disadvantages:

  • perfect for camping, cottage, or camping;
  • has a low weight, making it easy to move around the site;
  • easy to maintain;
  • functions quietly: the noise level is about 50 decibels.

man turns on the blue generator in nature

Wind-powered, solar-powered, and powered by human movement

The main advantages are:

  • portability – these mini generators can easily fit even in a pocket;
  • low cost;
  • the simplicity of design – they can be easily repaired, the probability of failure is lower;
  • do not require additional costs, since they do not need to buy fuel.

Disadvantages:

  • low power – suitable for connecting low-power devices, such as charging a smartphone;
  • dependence on weather conditions for solar generators.

Diesel

Advantages and disadvantages:

  • ideal if a constant source of electricity is needed;
  • greater safety margin than a gasoline one;
  • more powerful than petrol ones, which allows you to connect more appliances;
  • noisy: the volume is about 80-100 decibels;
  • difficulty in operating in winter, as it is problematic to start the unit at low temperatures;

Inverter

yellow camping generator
One of the varieties of gasoline generator has a number of advantages:

  • low noise level;
  • high quality of current at the output, which allows you to connect devices sensitive to power fluctuations;
  • copes with peak loads;
  • automatic regulation of revolutions depending on the load, which allows saving money on refueling when connecting devices
  • with low power consumption;
  • electronic ignition simplifies the process of starting.

The disadvantages can be distinguished only:

  • the high cost (as a rule, they cost almost twice as much as their gasoline counterparts);
  • small power;
  • the complexity of design, which complicates the repair.

Noise Level

Some generators are very loud. If you are going to be using it in an area where noise is a concern, you will need to find a generator that has a low noise level. Some generators have an Eco-Mode feature that will help to reduce the noise.

Price

The price of the generator is important, but you also need to consider the other factors on this list. Don’t just buy the cheapest generator you can find. Make sure it has the features you need and that it is the right size for your needs.

Power Generator Camping FAQs

compact blue generator for camping
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Can you run a generator in the rain?

It is necessary to study the instructions. It should describe the conditions under which your alternator can operate.

Can you run a generator overnight?

Yes, you can run a generator overnight. But you should periodically check its operation and the presence of fuel.

What size generator do I need for camping?

The size of the generator you need for camping depends on the equipment you plan to run and the power requirements of that equipment. Average generator power is 2000-3000 watts.

What’s the difference between an inverter and a generator?

The difference between inverter generators for camping and normal generator is that an inverter changes direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), while a generator creates AC power from mechanical energy.

Conclusions

A camping power generator can make your camping trip more comfortable and enjoyable. It can provide you with the electricity you need to power your lights, cook your food, and charge your devices. There are a few things to consider when choosing a camping power generator.

The first thing to consider is how much power you need. If you only need to power a few lights and charge your phone, a small generator will suffice. However, if you want to run a fridge or other appliances, you’ll need a larger generator. The next thing to consider is how easy the generator is to use. Some generators have a pull-start, while others have an electric start.

If you plan on using the generator for long periods of time, an electric start will be more convenient. Finally, consider the noise level of the generator. Some generators are very quiet, while others can be quite loud. If you’re camping in a quiet area, you’ll want a generator that won’t disturb your neighbors.

I hope this article helped you choose the best portable generator for camping. If you still have questions, you can ask them in the comments.

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