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Top 5 Small Generators for Easy Travel or Storage

Top 5 Small Generators for Easy Travel or Storage

These compact generators make it easy to camp comfortably in your RV or trailer with all the power you need.

Thad Warren By Thad Warren

Most outdoor enthusiasts love connecting with nature, but still prefer to enjoy some of the luxuries of the modern world, which often include cell phones (especially for photos), lanterns, Bluetooth speakers, coffee pots, cooktops, and so much more. 

At the end of the day, these conveniences can really make a camping trip feel extraordinary, but without a compact generator, it can be hard to power all of your favorite tech during your stay in the woods. 

There are dozens of personal generator options available to camp-savvy consumers, but some of the criteria that shoppers look for include: 

  • Size
  • Fuel and fuel costs
  • Runtime
  • Amp or energy output
  • Affordability
  • Additional features or functionality

Small Generator Rankings: 

Best Budget Small Generator



  • 39lbs
  • 60 Hz frequency
  • Gasoline
  • 1,700 running watts
  • 18.30 running amps
  • 10.8 hour runtime at 25% load

There are a few options on the market for just under $400, but for the extra $20-30, this option won’t break the bank but will significantly improve your generator experience and overall camping experience, powering anything from your cookstove to your mini-fridge. Small but mighty, this lightweight compact camping generator has impressive output stats and a sleek, modern look, all at a competitive price point. 

The WEN 56203i is touted as extremely quiet and maximizes lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down. This model includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and even a two-year warranty. 

Most Compact Generator

 

  • 37lbs
  • 60 Hz frequency
  • Gasoline
  • 1,000 running watts
  • 8.33 running amps
  • 10-hour runtime at 50% load

Weighing in at an impressive 37 pounds, almost anyone would find this unit easy to move around and operate while on the go. At just 6 x 8 x 14 inches, it won’t take up excessive space in your trunk or storage compartments. While it’s ultra-compact, it doesn’t lack in the output department and is able to run for up to 10 hours with an impressive 50% load. 

Most Powerful Small Generator

 

  • 84lbs
  • 60 Hz frequency
  • Gasoline
  • 3,300 running watts
  • 27.5 running amps
  • 9-hour runtime at 25% load

This generator packs a punch, and the stats speak for themselves. Featuring a Max Pro Series 193cc FIRMAN engine and Whisper Series muffler, you can get truly impressive energy output without having to worry about excessive noise levels. 

Longest Runtime Small Generator

  • 105lbs
  • 60 Hz frequency
  • Gasoline
  • 3,300 running watts
  • 27.5 running amps
  • 14-hour runtime at 25% load

If longevity is what you’re looking for, this Bilt Hard model offers an impressive 14-hour runtime at 25% load capacity, making it easier for you to be fuel-efficient during your trips and eliminating the need for frequent fill-ups or fuel level monitoring. Plus, this model doesn’t compromise on output. Most long-use generators offer lower output stats, but not this one.

Best Rated Small Generator

 

  • 53lbs
  • 60 Hz frequency
  • Gasoline
  • 1,800 running watts
  • 15.00 running amps
  • 8.1 hour runtime at 25% load

Honda EB2200i Specs

Specification
Value
Volume (dB)
47-53
Dimensions
20" x 11.4" x 16.7"
Weight
47.4 lbs
Peak Watts
2200w
Running Watts
1800w
Fuel Capacity
.95 gal
Runtime 50% load (hrs)
6 hrs
Engine Size
121 cc
Warranty
3 years
Hourly Fuel Cost/kW - 50% Load
$0.5401/kWh

 

Honda has long served as a go-to manufacturer of engines and generators, and this model is loved among 100% of reviewers on Amazon so far. We were impressed by this stat, but not as impressed as purchasers have been with their compact generator. 

Reviews go on to highlight a few key features including reliability, durability, noise levels, display meters, and more. A few reviewers even acknowledge the higher price tag, noting that it’s well worth the investment to get your hands on such a reliable generator.