You may want to head out into the wilderness and digitally detox and perhaps go off-grid while you recharge your own batteries -- but you'll still need some form of power while you're out in the wild.
Hence the need for a solid camping generator to power your lights, gadgets and entertainment while away from home and on the road. We're not talking about some clunky machine that will make lots of noise and pollute due to gas or diesel power, but an environmentally friendly option that’s compact and also uses the sun to recharge. Let’s take a deeper look.
Key Camping Generator Features
If you're planning a big trip into the great outdoors and are looking for options to keep you powered, here are some features to consider when looking at various models.
- Power and Capacity
What kind of power are you going to need during your camping trip? What fixtures, appliances and devices will you need to run and charge? Most likely you will have lights, a cell phone and other devices and possibly a portable TV, fans and heaters, a kettle or coffee maker and maybe even a rechargeable electric cooker.
There are so many things you might need a camping generator for that it's best to sit down and work out your requirements first and then decide on the product that fits your needs in terms of wattage and capacity. Too little power and you’ll risk disappointment; too much and you’re likely wasting money on a more expensive portable power plant.
- Portability
Whether your trip involves a car, RV or your own legs -- if you're hiking and carrying everything in a backpack -- you'll want a camping generator that is highly portable and doesn't take up much space. So it must be relatively small and not so heavy that you have to make a big effort to carry it about.
Look for camping generators you can move around with ease -- in and out of your vehicle or tent or getting about on foot with them. The BLUETTI AC180, for example, is a compact and portable solar power station that delivers a hefty 1,800 AC output and lets you plug in up to 11 devices.
- Noise Level
One of the main reasons people love camping is to get away from the stress -- and noise -- of city life. Immersing yourself in the solitude of nature allows you to de-stress and have a great vacation. Don't let the noise of a camping generator destroy your bliss, as well as annoying other campers who may be nearby, and disturbing wildlife.
Traditional camping generators, especially those that run on fuel, tend to be loud and are best avoided. Opt for the latest models, that use innovative technologies, and you -- and fellow campers and wildlife -- won't hear a thing.
- Durability
Next on our list of the best camping generator features for your adventure is durability. Look for models that are robust enough that they last in all kinds of conditions and are reliable. You can read manufacturers' sales information all you want but they may not be accurate; it's better to look at the materials used in the power packs' construction and decide for yourself.
So examine what aspects of the models you're looking at have materials that, for example, will protect them from shocks like drops, bumps while traveling and falls. They may have rubber or additional padding on part of their exterior to absorb such potentially damaging episodes.
- Weather Resistance
As you'll be living outdoors, albeit in a tent or RV, you'll be exposed to the elements. So you can expect any kind of weather. Not only you but also your equipment must be prepared for any eventuality, from pouring rain to lightning storms, cold snaps and baking heat.
Look especially for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating such as IP65 or IP67, which means the unit's electronics are protected against water and also any dust that could damage them. And you should be able to see the range in which the camping generator will work properly -- it could be anywhere from a freezing -4°F to a blistering 104°F.
- Battery Lifespan
Another consideration when looking for a camping generator is how long the battery will last -- not on one charge but its lifespan, which is measured in charge cycles. That's how many times the generator can be fully charged before it no longer holds a full one. A high charge cycle count, from 500 to 2,000, will give you many years of use when you go camping, instead of giving up after a short time.
With your portable, powerful and eco-friendly power pack with you on the road, you can enjoy your getaway in comfort while staying connected, and safe.
FAQs
What Is a Good Size Generator for Camping?
A camping generator that will provide between 1000W and 2000W will be sufficient for all your camping-power needs. You'll be able to use kitchen appliances, light your camping area, charge your cell phone and other electronics, and more.
Where Do I Put a Generator When Camping?
Make sure you operate your camping generator on a stable surface so that it doesn't tip over. If you're camping with a tent, it's best not to use it inside the structure, but keep the generator just beside it.
How Long Does a Camping Power Bank Last?
If you look after your camping generator, it should last years -- up to five or more. As you most likely won't be using it every day of the year, only when you're away camping, its battery capacity will last longer. But keep in mind that each time you charge the unit, the capacity will naturally degrade. Make sure to store the generator in a dry and safe place when not in use.
