The 5 Best Small Portable Generator for Camping
Best Small Portable Generator for Camping: Top Picks for Quiet, Lightweight Power
When you’re camping off-grid, having a reliable power source can make a significant difference. Whether you need to charge your devices, power lights, or run a small appliance, the best small portable generator for camping offers peace of mind without the noise or weight of larger models. Compact and efficient, these generators are designed to meet your energy needs while remaining easy to transport.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best small portable generators ideal for camping, along with tips for choosing the right one for your outdoor adventures. These generators are compact, lightweight, best portable generatorsand designed to best portable power stations provide reliable power wherever you go.
As severe weather becomes more frequent, the demand for the best small portable generator is rising. After a storm, suburban power outages often sound like hundreds of these compact machines humming to life. They serve purposes beyond just blackout protection; the best small portable generators are ideal for construction sites, tailgating, camping, barbecues, 5K runs, parades, and fairs. With prices becoming increasingly affordable, more people can own one. Below are quick summaries of our top-rated small portable generators. Read on for detailed ratings and recommendations.
Contents
Why Choose a Small Portable Generator for Camping?
1. Compact and Lightweight
- Easy to transport and store in your vehicle or RV.
- Often designed with handles or wheels for better portability.
- Ideal for tight camping spaces or tent setups.
2. Quiet Operation
- Many small generators are inverter models, which run much quieter than traditional generators.
- Great for maintaining peaceful campground environments (and complying with noise regulations).
- Helps you enjoy nature without disturbing it.
3. Reliable Power for Essentials
Powers must-have gear like:
- Phones, tablets, and cameras
- Portable fridges or coolers
- Fans or heaters
- LED lights or lanterns
- Electric grills or coffee makers
Helps you stay connected, cook, and stay warm/cool.
4. Fuel Efficient
- Smaller generators consume less fuel and often feature eco-modes that adjust engine speed based on load.
- Great for longer trips where fuel availability might be limited.
5. Safe for Sensitive Electronics
Inverter models produce clean power (stable voltage and frequency), which is safe for:
- Smartphones
- Laptops
- Drones
- CPAP machines
6. Complies with Campsite Regulations
- Many campgrounds restrict large generators due to noise and emissions.
- Small portable generators are more likely to be CARB-compliant and campground-approved.
7. Emergency Backup
- Provides a reliable power source in case of bad weather or emergencies during your trip.
- Can keep communication devices charged and emergency lights running.
Summary: Benefits at a Glance
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Lightweight & portable | Easy to carry and store |
| Quiet operation | Ideal for peaceful camping |
| Efficient & eco-friendly | Uses less fuel, better for the environment |
| Powers essentials | Comfort, safety, and convenience outdoors |
| Clean, safe power | Protects sensitive electronics |
Our Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Champion Portable Generator
- Runner-up: Westinghouse Portable Generator
- Top Choice: DuroMax Portable Generator
- Best Feature: Ultra Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
- Highly Rated: Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Best Small Portable Generator for Camping Review
1. Champion Power Equipment Portable Generator
The Champion 5500-watt portable generator provides electricity wherever and whenever it’s needed. The 389cc engine may be used on either gasoline or propane thanks to Dual Fuel Technology. The machine may operate on gasoline for up to 9 hours, or on propane for up to 6.5 hours. A propane hose is included.
Product information
- Wattage 5500 watts
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Output Wattage 5500
- Fuel Type Gasoline, Propane (LPG)
- Power Source propane-powered
- Special Feature Portable
- Item Weight 162.5 Pounds
- Recommended Uses For Product Commercial, Residential, Camping
Feature
- Dual Fuel Capability: Easily switch between gasoline and propane with our patented fuel selector switch.
- Intelligauge: Monitor voltage, hertz, and run-time hours for efficient maintenance.
- Multiple Outlets: Equipped with one 120/240V 30A locking outlet and four 120V 20A GFCI protected household outlets.
- Convenient Accessories: Comes with a wheel kit, oil funnel, and propane hose for easy transport and setup.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for home backup, outdoor events, or job sites!
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Pros:
- Versatile fuel options
- Easy monitoring features
- Portable design
Cons:
- No fuel gauge
the Champion Power Equipment 6900-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, your reliable power solution for any situation! This versatile generator operates on either gasoline or propane, providing 5500 watts of power right out of the box. Its key features include: Don’t miss out! Power up your life with Champion—order yours today!
2. Westinghouse Fuel Portable Generator
This Westinghouse type is an inexpensive alternative to the bigger, wheeled generators if you don’t need enough electricity to operate your complete home. It’s enormous and heavy, but it can operate on either gas or oil and has an electric starter, so you can power your fridge and freezer without worrying about running out of juice.
However, while waiting for your electricity to turn on, you may keep a few circuits and your most important heating and cooling appliances operational on the 3,600 watts it provides. The sole drawback is the volume, which is more than that of smaller inverter generators which provide the same amount of power in a more manageable size.
Product information.
- Wattage 4650 watts
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Output Wattage 4650
- Fuel Type Gasoline, propane
- Power Source Fuel Powered
- Recommended Uses For Product Residential
- Item Weight 109 Pounds
- Special Feature: Electric Start, Overload Protection, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Hour Meter, Dual Fuel, Fuel Gauge
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Feature
- Dimensions of the product are 23.2 x 17.5 x 18.5 inches
- Weight of Item: 109 Pounds
- Manufacturer Westinghouse
Pros
- Affordable
- Powered by propane or gas
- 4,650W maximum wattage
Cons
- Large relative to the quantity of power
3. DuroMax Portable Generator
DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt 500cc Tri Fuel Gas Propane Natural Gas Portable Generator with CO Alert. This generator has several uses. First, it’s a tri-fuel generator that works with gasoline, propane, and natural gas. The generator generates 9,500 operational watts using propane or natural gas, but gasoline generates the most power. Package includes propane regulator and natural gas line. Front panel controls include push-button start, outlets, low-oil sensor, and LED display of gas and load gauges, voltage, and frequency.
The equipment will also warn and shut power if it detects dangerously high carbon monoxide levels. The built-in handle and wheels make transporting this large item easy. It is meant to function outside, but it should be stored in a weatherproof place to minimize damage from rain.
Product information.
- Wattage 13000 watts
- Voltage 240 Volts
- Output Wattage 13000
- Fuel Type Gasoline
- Power Source Tri-Fuel
- Recommended Uses For Product Commercial, Residential
- Item Weight 240 Pounds
- Special Feature Portable, Digital Display, Electric Start, Remote Start
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Key Features:
- Tri Fuel Capability: Operate on gasoline, propane, or natural gas for ultimate flexibility.
- Powerful 500cc OHV Engine: Engineered for maximum performance.
- Push Button & Remote Start: Effortlessly start your generator with a button press or remote control.
- Versatile Outlets: Includes a transfer switch-ready 50 amp outlet for various power needs.
Best For: Homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency preparedness.
Why It’s Great: Reliable power, safe operation, and easy switching between fuel types.
Pros:
- High wattage capacity
- User-friendly controls
- Multiple fuel options
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
Don’t wait for the next outage—secure your power today with the DuroMax XP13000HXT!
4. Westinghouse 4000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
Experience unmatched power, versatility, and quiet performance with the Westinghouse 4000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator. This RV-ready unit offers 3300 rated watts and up to 4000 peak watts with ultra-low <3% THD, making it safe for sensitive electronics. Powered by gas or propane, it features remote electric start, a telescoping handle, and parallel capability for convenience and expandability.
Stay informed with the LED Data Center, showing run time, power output, and fuel level at a glance. Operates at just 52 dBA and runs up to 7 hours on 1.69 gallons of gas, with CO sensor and low-oil shutdown for added safety.
Product information.
- Wattage 4000 watts
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Output Wattage 4000
- Fuel Type Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
- Power Source Fuel Powered
- Recommended Uses For Product Residential, Camping
- Item Weight 62.8 Pounds
- Special Feature Digital Display, Electric Start, Dual Fuel, CO Sensor
Best for:
- RV owners
- Travel trailers
- Backup home power
- Camping & tailgating
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Why it’s great:
- Dual fuel flexibility (gas or propane)
- Super quiet operation at 52 dBA
- Remote, electric, and recoil start options
- LED digital display for real-time monitoring
- Multiple outlets including USB, RV-ready TT-30R, and 120V household
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable with telescoping handle
- Excellent fuel efficiency with Economy Mode
- CO and low oil auto shutdown
- EPA compliant with 3-year warranty
- Factory tested for reliability
Cons:
- Limited run time on propane
- Slight fuel odor possible from factory testing
Don’t wait for the next power outage or your next trip to upgrade your energy solution. 👉 Click “Add to Cart” and power your adventures or emergencies with confidence today!
5. Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start
Power up your home or next adventure with the WEN 4,750-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, built for versatility, reliability, and convenience. Easily switch between gasoline (4750W surge / 3800W running) and propane (4350W surge / 3500W running) using a simple selection dial. Its powerful 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine starts effortlessly with the turn of a key, and the 4-gallon tank delivers up to 11 hours of runtime at half load.
Perfect for emergencies or job sites, it supports 120V and 240V output, making it transfer switch ready. Includes GFCI outlets, a twist-lock, 12V DC plug, and wheel kit for portability.
Product information.
- Wattage 4750 watts
- Fuel Type Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
- Power Source Fuel Powered
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Output Wattage 4750 Watts
- Special Feature Electric
- Item Weight 105.8 Pounds
- Recommended Uses For Product Commercial
- Included Components Dual-Fuel Generator
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Best for:
- Emergency backup power
- Job sites
- RVs and outdoor events
Why it’s great:
- Dual fuel capability (gas & propane)
- 120V/240V flexibility for more applications
- Electric start for easy operation
- Long 11-hour runtime
Pros:
- Wheel & handle kit included for portability
- Multiple outlets including DC plug
- Transfer switch ready (240V compatible)
- Comes with LPG hose & oil
Cons:
- Slightly louder than inverter models
- Heavier build may require two-person lift without wheels
Take Charge of Your Power Needs! Be ready for anything—click “Buy Now” and enjoy reliable, dual-fuel power anytime, anywhere!
Editor’s note: June 5, 2025: I have substituted products that were out of stock with new, highly rated, best-selling options. Our goal in revising the reviews was to make them easier to understand and more tailored to the requirements of our consumers.
What to consider
Power stations, giant rechargeable batteries, are an alternative to gasoline-powered generators. Generator wattage output typically ranges from 3,500 to 8,500. A normal refrigerator requires 600 watts. Consider how and where you’ll use your portable generator.
Normal: A generator generates AC to power household devices and power equipment. These run on fossil fuels like gasoline or propane and have a hand-changeable speed. If your model supports several fuel sources, you have more alternatives when the lights go out. Standard generators are excellent for high-power needs without breaking the budget.
Gas-powered inverter generators provide three-phase electricity, making them more sophisticated. They create DC, convert it to AC, then generate high-frequency AC. This technology protects mobile phones and PCs by providing a constant electrical current. Inverter generators can alter output to match demand, reducing pollution. Additionally, they are quieter than portable generators.
The power plant is not a generator. No engine requires fuel, thus they are huge rechargeable batteries. They are quiet and pollutant-free, making them perfect for confined settings. Power plants have pros and cons. Without electricity, recharging a dead battery may be challenging. Solar panels are pricey and may slow charging for certain models.
FAQs
Q. How many kilowatts (kW) of power does a home need from a generator?
According to Williams, the size of the home and the number of appliances being used at once are only two of the numerous variables that affect the total number of watts required to power a home. Williams thinks that a portable generator with 6,000 to 8,000 watts might keep a typical home running, but it may not be able to power everything. “A large home or one with a lot of built-in smart technology will require a much higher wattage.”
For high-tech residences, Williams recommends a whole-house generator (non-portable) with 20,000 to 25,000 watts; but, if you need a portable device, you should go for the highest possible wattage, which is often about 14,000 watts or more.
Q. What makes an inverter generator distinct from a portable generator?
Despite their similarities, inverter generators are a more recent innovation that utilizes cutting-edge technology to reduce noise pollution and fuel consumption. They provide better quality electricity, making your gadgets safer to use.
“Inverter generators have the ability to vary the engine speed depending on the load,” Williams explains. They are less intrusive due to their reduced noise output, particularly at low loads.
Williams claims that the main drawbacks are their higher price (a result of the more advanced technology) and their lower durability when compared to regular generators. “Those working on construction sites prefer using the older generators because inverters are more electronic and can be damaged if dropped, for instance,” but “inverters are the best small portable generator for home use.”
Q. Do generators harm electrical devices?
Williams claims that although traditional generators have been known to destroy gadgets in the past, modern generators shouldn’t have this problem. Electricity produced by inverter generators is very pristine and safe for electronics.
