A generator can make your caravan or tent feel like a hotel room – bringing you warm beds, hot tea and cold drinks, no matter where you are. But using a generator isn’t like flicking an on/off switch. You’ll need to know how much power you need, how to choose the right generator, and finally, how to use it. In this guide, we’ll talk you through everything you need to know.

When you might need a generator

Switching off on an outdoor trip is a powerful draw, but who says you can’t bring a few home comforts for the ride? A generator can bring you a hot morning brew or evening meal without stoking a fire. Then there’s your TV sets, fridges and charging points, all of which Bear Grylls and the Bear Grylls-adjacent would likely shun, but for many people are essential, even on holiday.

But there are some instances where a generator could not be so much a convenience as a necessity. Take extended outdoor stays during house renovations (imagine Alan Partridge’s ill-fated James Bond marathon without the electricity to power him through), or remote sites with no electricity hook-ups. Or even if you chose to live off-grid entirely. In these instances, you might find it doesn’t always pay to go full nomad.

Types of generators for camping and caravanning

When it comes to the rules of your campsite or caravan park, not to mention your individual power needs, not all generators are created equal. For example, you might find that some are too noisy or powerful for some settings, or need to be kept in specific areas.

Here are a few common types to consider.

Compact portable generators

If your power requirements err on the casual, there are plenty of compact generators out there, too. These are designed for basic use and everyday items – think phone charging, firing up a few fairy lights or powering a small fan to one-up your mates during a sweltering summer festival. Low energy, low decibel, low footprint, low fuss – and probably no bigger than a hoover.

How to work out the power you need

Now for the nitty-gritty. Understanding your power requirements is key to choosing the right generator. Too small, you’ll be left in the dark. Too large and you’re carrying too much output, cost and weight. It’s all about matching your generator to your lifestyle.

Running watts and starting watts

So the first thing to think about is wattage. And for this, you’ll come across two key terms: running watts and starting watts.

• Running watts refer to the continuous power an appliance needs to operate when it’s turned on.
• Starting watts are the initial surge of power required for some appliances – fridges, microwaves, air conditioners, for example – to get started. It’s important to account for this additional burst, as it can be significantly higher than the wattage required to run an appliance once it’s got going. Remember that your generator needs to be able to handle the highest potential starting watts of your appliances, even when running concurrently with others.

Typical appliance wattages

It’s fair to say that not everyone keeps the wattage of their everyday appliances front of mind – but we do. Remember, these are averages, and specific models may vary, so always check your appliance's label if possible.

• LED Lights (per bulb/strip): 5-20W
• Phone Charger: 5-15W
• Laptop Charger: 45-90W
• Small TV (19-24 inch): 30-60W
• Caravan Fridge (compressor type): 80-150W (Running), 400-600W (Starting)
• Electric Kettle (travel size): 750-1200W
• Small Electric Heater (fan/oil-filled): 500-1500W (often with multiple settings)
• Hair Dryer (travel size): 800-1200W
• Microwave (small caravan type): 600-1000W (Running), 1200-2000W (Starting)

Example load scenarios

Looking at individual appliances is important, but you’ll need to think about how they work in tandem, too. Let’s look at how these wattages combine in typical camping situations:

Basic tent camping

For a basic camping setup, you’d probably want to stick to a few essentials. These may include a lantern, phone charger and possibly a larger appliance like a laptop. Let’s tot that up:

• LED Lantern (10W)
• Phone Charger (10W)
• Laptop (60W)
• Total Running Watts: 80W

In this instance, a very compact, low-wattage inverter generator would easily cover these minimal needs and would also stay quiet enough for a good night’s rest.

Standard caravan setup

Next, let’s talk caravans. Here, you’d probably be looking at LED lights, a small fridge and a TV.

This would break down as:

• LED lights (50W)
• Caravan fridge (100W running)
• TV (50W)
• Laptop (60W)
• Total Running Watts: 260W

Now, the hypothetical fridge in this case may have a running wattage of 100W, but it has a starting wattage of 500W. This would constitute the highest demand spike of all the appliances in the caravan, but you’d still need to allow for it in the power of your generator. An inverter capable of 1000W-1500W should be able to handle this starting wattage with enough power left over for the other appliances, too.

Larger caravan with multiple appliances

Here’s where things get a lil’ spicier. Let’s say you have a larger caravan with heating, tech and general mod-cons that doesn’t have an on-site electricity hookup.

For example:

• LED Lights (50W)
• Caravan fridge (100W running)
• TV (50W)
• Laptop (60W)
• Total Running Watts: 260W

Then, you throw in two additional appliances to use intermittently.

• Electric kettle (1000W)
• Small heater (1000W)
• Total Running Watts (with kettle or heater): 1260W

Now, you likely wouldn't run the kettle and heater simultaneously with everything else. So here, the highest single demand (kettle or heater) combined with other running items dictates the peak. And then, the fridge's starting surge still needs to be accommodated, too.

So for your kitted-out caravan, an inverter generator offering 2000-2500W continuous output would be a sensible choice, offering ample headroom for starting surges and the occasional use of high-draw appliances.

Benefits of using a generator when camping

Ultimately, a well-chosen generator isn't about luxury; it's about making your experience more practical.

The true benefit lies in the flexibility it offers, freeing you from the constraints of mains hook-ups and opening up a world of off-grid adventures. It allows you to explore more remote locations without sacrificing the conveniences that make a trip truly enjoyable.

Then, there’s taking with you the everyday comforts that make off-grid stays easy. Keep phones and devices charged, run electric and small cooking appliances, and top up batteries when there’s no mains hookup in sight. Switch on the TV and watch an unmissable World Cup tie in the summer when you’re nowhere near a pub, and check your messages emails for news you’ve been waiting for.

Factors to consider when using a generator

Beyond tallying up your appliances and their power, there are plenty of other things to consider when you’re choosing a generator.

Noise and campsite rules

When you use a generator at a campsite or caravan park, it’s important to be considerate.

Many campsites, particularly in the UK, have strict noise limits or designated quiet hours to preserve the peace for all visitors. An overly loud generator can quickly make you unpopular with the neighbours and wider campsite community, and you may be asked to turn it off.

This is why quieter generators, such as inverter models, are highly recommended for shared spaces. They allow you to enjoy your extra comfort without disturbing the tranquility of your surroundings. Moral of the story: always check the rules before you pay for your pitch.

Portability and weight

Next, you’ll need to consider the bulk and heft of your generator. After all, you’ll need to get it from your garage into your vehicle, then to your pitch easily, without weighing down your car or doing your back in.

But there are other considerations too. For caravanners, weight can be a critical factor due to payload limits. This is the total weight of the caravan/cargo being towed. For tent campers, especially those who might be moving pitches frequently or have limited vehicle space, a lightweight and compact generator is essential. Features like integrated handles or wheels can make a significant difference in ease of transport.

Fuel type and runtime

Most portable generators suitable for leisure use are petrol-powered. So it’s important to think about the runtime – how long the generator can operate on a single tank of fuel. This impacts how often you'll need to refill the tank.

You'll also need to consider how to store fuel safely. Fuel must be stored in approved containers, away from heat sources and living areas. Finally, fuel efficiency is worth noting, as a more efficient model will save you money on fuel and reduce inconvenient refueling stops.

Safety and ventilation

Generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless, odourless, and highly toxic gas. So, needless to say, safety is super important.

Therefore, a generator must always be used outdoors in a well-ventilated area, far away from any living space. Never operate a generator inside a tent, caravan, awning, or any enclosed structure, even with windows or doors open.

Position your generator a safe distance (typically at least six metres) from your tent or caravan, making sure to direct any exhaust fumes away from people and the openings to tents or caravans. It's also highly advisable to install a carbon monoxide alarm in your caravan or tent as an additional safety measure.

Why are inverter generators often the preferred choice?

When it comes to choosing a generator for the great outdoors, inverter generators are a top choice. As we’ve discussed, they offer safety, stability and fuel efficiency from a relatively compact, lightweight design, allowing you to power your devices with ease. What’s more, they’re quiet – so you won’t fall foul of your neighbours (until they hear you snore). Learn more about the specifications of our convertor generators on our comparison page.

Practical tips for using a generator safely on trips

To ensure your generator works safely and efficiently for your adventure, a few practical tips go a long way.

• Safe placement and ventilation. Keep your generator in a well-ventilated area a minimum of six metres from your tent, caravan, or any living space. It should be directed well away from people, tents and caravans. Never use it inside a tent, awning, or vehicle, as this risks dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.
• Cable management. Use appropriate outdoor-rated extension leads and keep them tidy, running them safely to avoid trip hazards. Ensure connections are secure and protected from moisture.
• Avoid overloading. Be mindful of your generator's maximum wattage. Avoid plugging in too many high-draw appliances simultaneously, as this can overload the unit and potentially damage both the generator and your appliances.
• Safe refuelling. Always turn off the generator and allow it to cool completely before attempting to refuel. Use an approved fuel container and refuel in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources.
• Basic maintenance. Before each use, perform a quick check of the oil level, fuel level, and ensure the air filter is clean. Regular, simple checks can prevent unexpected outages and prolong the life of your generator.

What is the 20-20-20 rule for generators?

A common safety guideline for generator placement is to keep it at least 20 feet (approximately six metres) away from your home, caravan, or tent, with the exhaust pointing away. You also need to wait 20 minutes for it to cool down before refuelling, and buy a £20 carbon monoxide alarm to prevent dangerous CO build-up.

Many owners also follow a second 20-20-20 guideline for maintenance. Run the generator every month for 20 minutes with around 20% load and carry out basic checks every 20 hours of use.

Can I run my TV on a generator?

Yes, you can absolutely run your TV on a generator. For modern televisions and other sensitive electronics, an inverter generator is highly recommended. These models produce clean, stable power, which is vital to prevent damage to delicate circuits, so your TV operates smoothly and safely without risking a power surge.

What are the four types of generators?

Common generator types include:

• Inverter generators, prized for clean power and quiet operation
• Open-frame portable generators, offering higher power but louder noise
• Standby generators, permanently installed for automatic home backup
• Compact portable generators, smaller units for very basic power needs.

Do people take generators when travelling for a long time?

Yes, many people travelling for extended periods, especially those venturing off-grid or to remote locations, find generators invaluable. They provide independence from mains hook-ups, ensuring continuous power for refrigeration, charging devices, and maintaining comfort over long stays where access to electricity might be unreliable or non-existent.

Why do you need a small portable generator for camping?

A small portable generator is perfect for basic camping needs, offering convenience without bulk. It allows you to charge phones, power lights, and run small appliances – like a fan or a travel kettle. Their quiet operation and ease of transport make them ideal for tent campers or those with minimal power demands, ensuring comfort without disruption.