How to Choose the Right RV Generator

By Jake Morris — RV Gear Expert & Contributing Editor· June 10, 2026· 7 min read

Written by Jake Morris Senior RV Gear Writer at ShopRVGear

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Jake has spent 8 years full-timing in a Class A motorhome and has personally tested hundreds of RV products across North America. He is the lead gear reviewer at Shop RV Gear, covering solar setups, backup safety syst…

8 yrs experience·Last updated: Jun 10, 2026

How to Choose the Right RV Generator

If you're wondering how to choose RV generator options without overspending or ending up with too little power, start with one rule: match the generator to the way you camp. A weekend camper running lights and a coffee maker needs something very different from a full-timer powering one or two air conditioners. In this guide, Shop RV Gear walks you through wattage, fuel type, noise, portability, and the key features that matter most.

RV Generator Comparison Table

Key Takeaways

• Calculate your running watts and starting watts before shopping.
• Choose between portable, inverter, and built-in generators based on your RV style.
• For most travel trailers and smaller fifth wheels, 3,000 to 4,500 watts is a practical range.
• If you need to run a 15,000 BTU air conditioner, check startup surge carefully.
• Inverter generators are usually quieter, cleaner, and better for electronics.
• Fuel type affects convenience, runtime, storage, and maintenance.
• Always follow carbon monoxide and grounding safety practices.

Why the Right RV Generator Matters

A generator is more than a backup power source. It can determine how comfortably you boondock, how often you can use your microwave or air conditioner, and whether your batteries stay charged off-grid. The wrong generator can leave you with tripped breakers, excessive fuel use, or a noisy campsite setup that annoys everyone nearby.

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The right choice should balance five things:

1. Power output
2. Fuel source
3. Noise level
4. Portability or permanent installation
5. Budget and maintenance needs

Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Right RV Generator

What You'll Need

Before you compare models, gather:

• Your RV owner's manual
• Appliance wattage information
• A list of what you want to run at the same time
• Shore power details: 30-amp or 50-amp service
• Budget range
• Campsite or boondocking preferences

1. List the Appliances You Actually Use

Write down the items you expect to run when camping off-grid. Common examples include:

• Air conditioner
• Microwave
• Converter/charger
• Refrigerator
• TV and Wi-Fi gear
• Coffee maker
• Hair dryer
• CPAP machine
• Lights and vent fans

Be realistic. If you never run the microwave and AC at the same time, you may not need a larger generator.

2. Add Running Watts and Starting Watts

Every motor-driven appliance has two power numbers:

• Running watts: power needed to keep it operating
• Starting watts: extra surge needed to start it

Your generator must handle the highest startup demand likely to happen while other loads are running. Air conditioners are usually the biggest factor. A 13,500 BTU RV AC often needs around 2,800 to 3,500 starting watts, while a 15,000 BTU unit may need 3,500 to 4,500 or more, depending on the setup.

3. Match Generator Size to Your RV

Use this quick rule of thumb:

Small RVs and teardrops

• Typical need: 2,000 to 3,000 watts
• Best for: battery charging, lights, fans, small appliances

Mid-size travel trailers

• Typical need: 3,000 to 4,500 watts
• Best for: one AC unit plus basic appliances

Large fifth wheels and Class A RVs

• Typical need: 5,500 watts and up
• Best for: heavier loads, multiple ACs, longer off-grid stays

If your RV has 50-amp service, that does not automatically mean you need the biggest generator available. It means your RV can accept more power, but your actual off-grid usage still determines the right size.

4. Choose the Generator Type

Inverter Generator

Best for most RV owners.

Pros

• Quieter operation
• Cleaner power for laptops, TVs, and electronics
• Better fuel efficiency at lower loads
• Easier to transport in smaller sizes

Cons

• Higher upfront price
• Large-capacity models can get expensive

Conventional Portable Generator

Best for budget-focused buyers with higher wattage needs.

Pros

• Lower cost per watt
• Good for heavy loads
• Widely available

Cons

• Louder than inverter models
• Heavier and bulkier
• Less refined power output

Built-In RV Generator

Best for full-timers and large motorhomes.

Pros

• Convenient push-button operation
• Integrated fuel system on many motorhomes
• Strong output for larger RVs

Cons

• Most expensive option
• Installation and service can be more involved
• Less flexible than portable units

Side-by-Side Buying Guide: Top RV Generator Categories

Clear Verdict

For most RV owners, a 3,500W to 4,500W inverter generator is the sweet spot. It offers enough power for one air conditioner and common appliances, while staying quieter and safer for modern electronics. If you have a larger RV or run multiple AC units, step up to a built-in or higher-output model.

Fuel Types: Which One Makes Sense?

Gasoline

Gasoline generators are common and easy to find.

Best for: occasional campers and easy refueling

Watch for: fuel storage limits, shorter shelf life, carburetor issues if left unused

Propane

Propane burns cleaner and stores longer than gasoline.

Best for: RVers who already carry propane and want simpler storage

Watch for: slightly lower power output than gasoline in many dual-fuel models

Dual-Fuel

Dual-fuel generators let you switch between gasoline and propane.

Best for: flexibility and backup fuel planning

Watch for: added cost and sometimes more weight

Diesel

More common in larger motorhomes and built-in systems.

Best for: diesel coaches and heavy-duty use

Watch for: higher upfront cost and more specialized maintenance

Features That Matter Most

Noise Rating

Look for decibel ratings, especially if you camp in public campgrounds. Inverter models often run much quieter than open-frame generators.

RV-Ready Outlet

An RV-ready outlet simplifies hookup and may reduce the need for adapters.

Parallel Capability

Some smaller inverter generators can be paired together for more power. This is useful if you want portability now and more capacity later.

Electric Start

Helpful on larger units, especially if you don't want to pull-start a heavy generator.

Runtime and Fuel Tank Size

Longer runtime matters for overnight battery charging or extended boondocking.

Weight and Storage

Make sure you can lift, secure, and store the unit safely in your RV or tow vehicle.

Safety Tips for RV Generator Use

Generator safety is non-negotiable. Follow these basics every time:

1. Never run a generator inside an RV, garage, truck bed cover, or enclosed area.
2. Keep it far enough away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide entering the RV.
3. Use a carbon monoxide detector and test it regularly.
4. Let the generator cool before refueling.
5. Use the correct extension cords and adapters rated for the load.
6. Protect the unit from rain unless the model is specifically designed for wet conditions.
7. Secure the generator against theft with locks or cables when camping.

Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Too Small

A generator that barely meets your needs will struggle with startup surges and may constantly run at high load.

Buying Too Big

Oversizing can mean more weight, more noise, and more fuel consumption than you need.

Ignoring Altitude and Temperature

Generators can lose power at higher elevations and in hot weather. If you camp in the mountains, build in extra capacity.

Overlooking Maintenance

Oil changes, fuel stabilizer, air filter checks, and periodic exercise runs all matter. A neglected generator is unreliable when you need it most.

Practical Advice from Shop RV Gear

If you're still narrowing it down, use this simple approach:

• Choose a 2,000W inverter if you only need battery charging, lights, and small devices.
• Choose a 3,500W to 4,500W inverter if you want the best all-around RV solution.
• Choose a dual-fuel model if flexibility matters more than the lowest price.
• Choose a built-in generator if you own a larger motorhome and want convenience over portability.

For many RVers, the best buying decision is not the biggest generator. It's the one that quietly powers your real camping routine without adding unnecessary bulk or cost.

FAQ

1. What size generator do I need for a 30-amp RV?

Most 30-amp RV owners do well with a 3,000W to 4,500W generator, depending on whether they want to run the air conditioner and other appliances at the same time.

2. Is an inverter generator better for an RV?

In most cases, yes. Inverter generators are usually quieter, more fuel efficient, and safer for sensitive electronics, which makes them a strong fit for RV use.

3. Can I run my RV air conditioner with a 2,000-watt generator?

Usually not by itself for most standard RV AC units, unless you have a very efficient setup or a soft-start installed. Most RV air conditioners need more startup power than a 2,000W generator can provide.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to choose RV generator options comes down to understanding your power habits first and comparing specs second. Focus on your actual appliance load, pick the right generator type, and never compromise on safety. If you want the best mix of comfort, noise control, and flexibility, a mid-range inverter generator is the top choice for most RV owners.

At Shop RV Gear, our advice is simple: buy for the way you camp now, with just enough room for the upgrades you realistically plan to make later.