What Is The Best Portable Generators for Camping [IN 2025]
Camping is a great way to connect with nature and unplug from the stresses of daily life. However, many campers still want access to some modern comforts and conveniences that require electricity. This is where portable generators come in handy. A good portable generator can power essentials like lights, phones, laptops, cooking appliances, and even small air conditioners or heaters.
In this article, we’ll review 7 of the best portable generators for camping across different price points and power outputs. We’ll look at key features, pros and cons, and what types of camping trips each generator is best suited for. Whether you’re a casual weekend camper or an avid backcountry explorer, you’ll find options to meet your portable power needs.
Table of Contents
Our Top 7 Picks
Feature | EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 | EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 | WEN 2350-Watt | MARBERO 88Wh | Jackery Explorer 1000 | Goal Zero Yeti 500 | WEN 3600-Watt |
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Capacity | 1024Wh (expandable to 3kWh) | 256Wh | N/A (1 gal fuel tank) | 88Wh | 1002Wh | 505Wh | N/A (1.85 gal fuel tank) |
Output Power | 1800W continuous / 2700W surge | 600W continuous / 1200W surge | 1900W rated / 2350W surge | 80W continuous / 120W peak | 1000W continuous / 2000W surge | 500W continuous / 1000W surge | 2900W rated / 3600W surge |
Weight | 27 lbs | 7.7 lbs | 39 lbs | 3.2 lbs | 22 lbs | 17 lbs | 46 lbs |
Dimensions | 15.7″ x 8.3″ x 11.3″ | 9.6″ x 8.4″ x 5.5″ | 17.3″ x 11.5″ x 17.5″ | 6.5″ x 4.6″ x 3.1″ | 13.1″ x 9.2″ x 11.1″ | 11.32″ x 7.84″ x 7.8″ | 17.9″ x 11.6″ x 19.7″ |
Charging Time | 0-80% in 50 min (AC) | 1 hour (AC) | N/A | 2 hours (AC) | 7 hours (AC) | 90 minutes (AC) | N/A |
AC Outlets | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 + 1 RV |
USB Ports | 4 (2 USB-A, 2 USB-C) | 3 (2 USB-A, 1 USB-C) | 2 USB-A | 4 (3 USB-A, 1 USB-C) | 4 (2 USB-A, 2 USB-C) | 4 (2 USB-A, 2 USB-C) | 2 USB-A |
12V Ports | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Solar Compatible | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Display | LCD | LCD | Basic LED | LCD | LCD | LCD | Basic LED |
Noise Level | Silent | Silent | 52 dBA @ 25% load | Silent | Silent | Silent | 55 dBA @ 25% load |
Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Gasoline | Electric | Electric | Electric | Gasoline |
Runtime | Varies based on load | Varies based on load | Up to 10.5 hrs @ 25% load | Varies based on load | Varies based on load | Varies based on load | Up to 8.5 hrs @ 50% load |
Best For | High power needs, long trips | Weekend trips, light loads | Balanced power and price | Ultra-portable, budget option | Extended trips, multiple devices | Rugged use, fast charging | RV use, high power needs |
7 Best Portable Generators for Camping Reviews
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2
Pros:
- High 1800W output can power most appliances
- Fast charging – 0-80% in 50 minutes
- Expandable capacity up to 3kWh
- Can be solar charged
- Long 3000+ cycle lifespan
- Quiet operation
- Multiple outlets and ports
Cons:
- Heavy at 27 pounds
- Expensive
- Overkill for basic camping needs
The EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 is a powerhouse portable generator that can handle serious electrical loads. With 1800W of continuous output and 2700W surge capacity, it can run energy-hungry devices like air conditioners, power tools, and kitchen appliances.
The 1024Wh lithium battery provides plenty of capacity for extended use. What’s more, you can expand the capacity up to 3kWh by adding extra battery packs. This makes the DELTA 2 suitable for longer camping trips or even as an emergency home backup power source.
One of the standout features is the ultra-fast charging. Using AC power, you can charge from 0-80% in just 50 minutes. It’s also compatible with solar panels for off-grid charging.
With 15 outlets including AC, USB, and 12V options, you can power and charge multiple devices simultaneously. The informative LCD display shows real-time power consumption and battery status.
While the DELTA 2 is incredibly capable, it may be overkill for basic camping needs. At 27 pounds, it’s also on the heavier side for a portable generator. But for campers who want maximum power and versatility, it’s hard to beat.
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Fast 1-hour recharge time
- Can power up to 6 devices at once
- Long-lasting LFP battery
- Quiet operation
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited 256Wh capacity
- 600W output not suitable for high-draw appliances
For campers wanting a more lightweight and budget-friendly option, the EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 is an excellent choice. Weighing just 7.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry and pack.
The 256Wh LFP battery provides enough juice to charge phones, tablets, laptops and run small appliances. With a 600W output (1200W surge), it can handle most basic camping electrical needs.
One of the best features is the fast 1-hour recharge time using AC power. You can also recharge via solar panels or your car’s 12V outlet.
The RIVER 2 offers good connectivity with 2 AC outlets, 2 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and a 12V car port. This allows you to power up to 6 devices simultaneously.
While the 256Wh capacity is limited for extended use or power-hungry devices, it’s sufficient for weekend camping trips. The RIVER 2 strikes a great balance of portability, performance and affordability for casual campers.
WEN 2350-Watt Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Powerful 2350W surge / 1900W rated output
- Fuel-efficient 4-stroke OHV engine
- Very quiet operation (52 dBA)
- Compact and lightweight for its power class
- Affordable price
- Clean power safe for electronics
Cons:
- Requires gasoline and oil
- Louder than battery power stations
- Regular maintenance needed
The WEN 2350-Watt Inverter Generator offers an excellent balance of power, portability and affordability. It produces 2350 watts of surge power and 1900 watts of rated power – enough to run an RV air conditioner.
At just 39 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight and compact for a gas generator in this power range. The noise level of 52 dBA at 25% load is very quiet for a gas generator.
The 4-stroke 79cc OHV engine is fuel-efficient, providing up to 10.5 hours of run time on a full 1-gallon tank at 25% load. It produces clean sine wave electricity safe for sensitive electronics.
For connectivity, you get two 120V household outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and two 5V USB ports. The parallel capability allows you to connect two WEN generators for double the power output.
The main downsides are that it requires gasoline and oil, making it less convenient than battery power stations. It also needs regular maintenance like oil changes. But for campers needing reliable high-wattage power at an affordable price, the WEN 2350 is hard to beat.
MARBERO Portable Power Station 88Wh
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- Very affordable price
- Fast 2-hour recharge time
- 8 output ports
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Silent operation
Cons:
- Limited 88Wh capacity
- Low 80W continuous / 120W peak output
For campers wanting an ultra-portable and budget-friendly power station, the MARBERO 88Wh is an excellent option. At just 3.2 pounds and about the size of a DSLR camera, it’s easy to pack and carry anywhere.
The 88Wh lithium battery provides enough capacity to charge phones 6-8 times or a laptop 1-2 times. With an 80W continuous output (120W peak), it can run small devices and lights but not power-hungry appliances.
It offers good connectivity with 2 AC outlets, 4 USB ports (including USB-C PD), and a 12V car port. The built-in LED light with 3 modes is handy for camping.
One of the best features is the fast 2-hour recharge time. You can also recharge it via solar panel (sold separately) for off-grid use.
While the capacity and output are limited, the MARBERO 88Wh is perfect for weekend camping trips where you just need to keep small devices charged. Its tiny size and low price make it a great backup power bank to keep in your car or emergency kit.
Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station
Pros:
- High 1000W continuous / 2000W surge output
- Large 1002Wh capacity
- 8 output ports including 3 AC outlets
- Can charge via solar panels
- Informative LCD display
- Silent operation
Cons:
- Heavy at 22 pounds
- Expensive
- No USB-C PD port
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is a high-capacity power station that can handle serious electrical loads. With 1000W of continuous output (2000W surge), it can run most appliances including small refrigerators and microwaves.
The large 1002Wh lithium battery provides plenty of juice for extended camping trips. You can expect to charge a smartphone 100 times, run a 60W mini fridge for 17 hours, or power a 500W blender for 1.5 hours.
It offers excellent connectivity with 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, and a 12V car port. The informative LCD display shows input/output wattage and battery percentage.
One of the best features is the ability to recharge via solar panels, making it great for off-grid camping. It can be fully recharged in about 8 hours with two 100W solar panels.
The main downsides are the hefty 22-pound weight and high price tag. It also lacks a USB-C PD port for fast-charging laptops. But for campers needing maximum power and capacity in a portable package, the Explorer 1000 is an excellent choice.
Goal Zero Yeti 500 Portable Power Station
Pros:
- Durable, water-resistant construction
- Fast 90-minute recharge time
- Long 4000+ cycle lifespan
- Can charge via solar panels
- Silent operation
- Reputable brand with good support
Cons:
- Expensive for its capacity
- Heavy at 17 pounds
- Limited 500W output
The Goal Zero Yeti 500 is a rugged and reliable power station built to withstand outdoor use. With an IPX4 water-resistance rating and durable construction, it can handle the rigors of camping.
The 500Wh lithium battery provides a good balance of capacity and portability. It can charge a smartphone 40 times, run a portable fridge for 10 hours, or power lights for 37 hours.
With a 500W continuous output (1000W surge), it can handle most camping electrical needs but may struggle with high-draw appliances like microwaves or hair dryers.
One of the best features is the fast 90-minute recharge time using AC power. You can also recharge it via solar panels or your car’s 12V outlet.
The Yeti 500 offers good connectivity with 2 AC outlets, 2 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, and a 12V car port. The informative display shows power in/out and battery percentage.
While it’s expensive for its capacity, the Yeti 500 makes up for it with durability, fast charging, and Goal Zero’s reputation for quality and support. It’s a great choice for campers who prioritize reliability and ruggedness.
WEN 3600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Pros:
- High 3600W surge / 2900W rated output
- Fuel-efficient 149cc engine
- Relatively quiet for its power (55 dBA)
- RV-ready with TT-30R outlet
- Compact and lightweight for its class
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Requires gasoline and oil
- Louder than battery power stations
- Regular maintenance needed
The WEN 3600-Watt Inverter Generator offers serious power in a relatively compact package. With 3600 watts of surge power and 2900 watts of rated power, it can handle demanding loads like RV air conditioners with ease.
At 46 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for a generator in this power class. The noise level of 55 dBA at 25% load is quite reasonable, though louder than battery power stations.
The fuel-efficient 149cc engine provides up to 8.5 hours of run time on a full 1.85-gallon tank at 50% load. It produces clean sine wave electricity safe for sensitive electronics.
For connectivity, you get two 120V household outlets, one TT-30R RV outlet, one 12V DC outlet, and two USB ports. This makes it ideal for powering RVs or travel trailers.
The main downsides are that it requires gasoline and oil, making it less convenient than battery power stations. It also needs regular maintenance like oil changes. But for campers needing maximum power output at an affordable price, the WEN 3600 is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Portable Generator for Camping
When selecting a portable generator for camping, consider the following factors:
- Power Output:
- Determine your power needs by adding up the wattage of all devices you plan to use simultaneously.
- Choose a generator with a continuous output that exceeds your total wattage needs.
- Consider surge wattage for devices that require extra power to start up.
- Capacity:
- For battery-powered stations, higher Wh (Watt-hours) means longer runtime.
- For gas generators, larger fuel tanks provide longer runtime.
- Portability:
- Consider weight and dimensions, especially if you’ll be carrying the generator long distances.
- Look for built-in handles or wheels for easier transport.
- Noise Level:
- Battery-powered stations are silent.
- For gas generators, look for inverter models which are generally quieter.
- Consider decibel ratings – anything under 60 dBA is relatively quiet.
- Fuel Type:
- Battery-powered: Convenient, no emissions, but limited capacity.
- Gas-powered: Longer runtime, higher output, but require fuel and maintenance.
- Charging/Refueling Options:
- For battery stations, consider charging time and options (AC, solar, car).
- For gas generators, consider fuel efficiency and tank size.
- Outlets and Ports:
- Ensure the generator has the right type and number of outlets for your devices.
- USB ports are useful for charging small electronics.
- Consider RV-ready outlets if applicable.
- Display and Controls:
- An informative LCD display helps monitor power usage and battery level.
- Look for easy-to-use controls and safety features.
- Durability and Weather Resistance:
- For outdoor use, consider units with rugged construction.
- Some models offer water-resistant ratings for added protection.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty:
- Choose reputable brands known for reliability.
- Check warranty terms and customer support options.
- Price and Value:
- Balance features with your budget.
- Consider long-term value, including lifespan and running costs.
- Additional Features:
- Solar charging capability for off-grid use.
- Parallel capability to connect multiple units.
- Built-in inverter for clean power safe for electronics.
Remember, the best generator for you depends on your specific camping style, power needs, and preferences. Consider how often you’ll use it, the types of trips you take, and how much you’re willing to invest in portable power.
FAQs
Can I use a portable generator inside my tent or RV?
A: No, never use a gas-powered generator inside an enclosed space due to carbon monoxide risk. Battery power stations are safe for indoor use.
How do I calculate what size generator I need?
A: Add up the wattage of all devices you plan to run simultaneously. Choose a generator with at least that much continuous output, plus some extra for surge requirements.
Can I charge a portable power station while using it?
A: Yes, most power stations allow pass-through charging, meaning you can use them while they’re being recharged.
How long do portable power stations last?
A: The lifespan depends on battery type and usage. LiFePO4 batteries like in the EF ECOFLOW models can last 3000+ cycles. Other lithium-ion batteries typically last 500-1000 cycles.
Are portable generators waterproof?
A: Most are not fully waterproof. Some like the Goal Zero Yeti 500 have water-resistant ratings. Always protect your generator from rain and moisture.
Conclusion
When choosing a portable generator for camping, consider factors like power output, capacity, size/weight, noise level, and recharging options. Battery power stations offer silent operation and no maintenance but have limited capacity. Gas generators provide more power but are louder and require fuel/maintenance.
For basic camping needs like charging devices and running lights, compact options like the EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 or MARBERO 88Wh are great choices. For more power-hungry applications or longer trips, high-capacity stations like the Jackery Explorer 1000 or gas generators like the WEN models are better suited.
Ultimately, the best portable generator for you depends on your specific camping style and power requirements. Consider how much power you need, how long you’ll be off-grid, and how much weight you’re willing to carry. With the diverse options available, you’re sure to find a portable generator that enhances your camping experience.