11 Best Van Generators For Boondocking

While many things in a converted van can be powered by solar and battery power, some appliances (like air conditioning) require so much electricity that a van generator is the best way to power them.

If you’re considering adding a generator to your van build there are a few things to consider, like size, efficiency, fuel type, etc.

In this article:

• Comparison of the best van generators
• Types of van generators: gas, diesel, propane & solar
• How to pick the right size generator for van life
• Standard vs inverter generators

The list below compares the best generators for van life at a high level. Keep scrolling for additional details and features for each generator.

Best Generator For Van Life

The best generator for van life is the Craftsman C0010250.

This van generator provides the best value for your investment. It’s reasonably priced compared to other generators on the market and provides more power than many other options.

1. Craftsman Van Generator

The Craftsman gasoline fueled generator is rated for 2200 running watts, and up to 2500 peak (or starting) watts.

It’s slightly heavier than others, at 55 lbs.

Craftsman does not provide decibel or efficiency rating, but user reviews for each feature ranks as highly satisfied.

The Craftsman C0010250 generator is California CARB compliant and can be used in parallel with another Craftsman van generator.

Best Generator For Van Life: Dual Fuel

Dual fuel generators are a great option for van life because they give you two options to power your generator, depending on your needs.

The Pulsar 2200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator is the best choice if you’re looking for a van generator that can run on both gasoline and LPG.

2. Pulsar Van Generator

The wattage ratings and efficiency rating vary slightly depending on which fuel type you’re using.

Best of all, the price point is similar to single-fuel van generators.

The Pulsar 2200W Portable generator weighs 44 lbs with a noise rating of 60 dB.

It is both CARB compliant (for California residents) and can be used in parallel to increase its power.

This is a great option for a dual fuel generator in the mid-range for price, weight and noise rating.

Best Generator For Van Life: Budget

If you have a tight budget for your van generator, consider the Ford FG2300iS 2300W Silent Series. The Ford generator is almost half the cost of other brands.

3. Ford Van Generator

Even though it’s less of an investment, the Ford generator still holds its own against some of the more well-known brands.

This generator for van life is gasoline powered, has a running rating of 2000W and a peak rating of 2300W. Additionally, it only weighs 46 lbs.

Similar to most van generators, the noise rating for this Ford generator is 59 dB.

It’s CARB compliant and can be used in parallel with other Ford generators for increased power.

Best Solar Generator For Van Life

Solar generators are a popular choice for van life because they don’t require gasoline or other fuel sources. Instead, they are powered by solar energy – which is great for the environment and your bank account.

The EcoFlow DELTA 2 is the best solar generator for van life.

4. EcoFlow Solar Generator For Van Life

This sudo van generator can be charged from solar panels, a wall plug or when your vehicle is running.

The running rating is 1800W and the peak rating is an impressive 2700W.

Even more impressive, it only weighs 27 lbs.

The EcoFlow is CARB compliant. Unfortunately, it cannot be run in parallel.

Additional Van Generator Options

There’s a wide variety of van generators available. Depending on how much you plan to use yours (how many watts you require), your preference for fuel type, or whether you need a generator that is extremely quiet, or extremely efficient there’s an option that’s perfect for you!

5. Honda Van Generator

A popular option for van generators is the Honda EU2200iTAG.

This gasoline powered generator has a running rating of 1800W, and a 2200W peak rating.

It’s one of the lightest generators, weighing only 46 lbs.

Additionally, it’s one of the quietest van generators with a noise rating of 48-57 dB.

Unfortunately, the Honda van generator is not CARB compliant. However, it is parallel capable, so you can connect several of them together to increase your overall running watts.

There’s a few additional features in the Honda that are worth noting.

First, Co-Minder is a carbon monoxide detection system which continuously monitors the CO levels and automatically shuts down the generator before levels get dangerously high. 

Additionally, their smartphone app allows you to operate and monitor your van generator remotely. And it also has wireless start and stop capabilities.

6. Westinghouse Van Generator

The Westinghouse iGen2200 generator is a good option if you prefer a generator with high fuel efficiency. This van generator can run for 12 hours on just 1.2 gallons of gasoline.

It’s a powerful van generator with 1800W running and 2200W peak ratings.

Additionally, it’s one of the lighter generators for van life at just 47 lbs.

You won’t disturb your neighbors while this is running either, as its noise rating is just 52 dB.

Lastly, it’s both CARB compliant and parallel capable for increased running watts.

7. Briggs & Stratton Van Generator

The Briggs & Stratton P2400 generator is also a decent option. It has slightly more peak power, but it’s slightly louder, heavier and less efficient than other van generators.

The Briggs & Stratton is gasoline powered with a running rating of 1800W and a peak rating of 2400W.

It weighs in at 50 lbs and 59 dB (noise rating). 

The manufacturer states it can run for 8 hours on 5 gallons of gasoline. However, they do not specify the load %, which makes it difficult to compare this to other van generators which seemingly are more efficient, but potentially are just running a lower load.

This van generator is CARB compliant in California, and it can be run in parallel to increase its power.

8. Champion Power Equipment Van Generator

If you’re looking for a lightweight generator the Champion Power Equipment 100692 is a great option. It weighs only 39 lbs!

Champion’s generator is powered by gasoline with a running rating of 1700W and a peak rating of 2000W.

It’s also one of the quieter van generators with a noise rating of 53 dB.

This is also one of the most fuel efficient van generators with an ability to run for 11.5 hours on only 1.1 gallons of gasoline.

To top it off, it’s CARB compliant and it can be run in parallel.

9. DuroMax Van Generator

The DuroMax XP2300iH is a dual fuel van generator, which means it can be powered by both gasoline and propane.

Dual fuel generators have several benefits, including flexibility to use the cheaper, more efficient or more available fuel.

Additionally, DuroMax provides good power, with a running rating of 1800W and a peak rating of 2300W.

It’s only 53 lbs, which places it in the same weight range as most other van generators of its size.

You’ll have no trouble sleeping with a noise rating of only 52 dB. 

The manufacturer does not specify the efficiency rating of this generator – likely because it varies depending on your fuel source. However, user reviews agree that it’s an efficient van generator.

Lastly, this generator is CARB compliant in California and it’s parallel capable for times when you need a bit more power.

Additional Solar Generators For Van Life

The term “solar generator” is a bit misleading, as these types of generators don’t actually produce their own energy. Instead, they’re powered by solar (and in some cases, by plugging into an electrical outlet).

Solar generators are great for van life because they don’t produce any toxic fumes, they’re quieter than gas generators, and they don’t require any maintenance.

10. Goal Zero Solar Generator For Van Life

The Goal Zero Yeti Lithium 1000X is a great option to power your ancillary devices.

The unit can be charged by solar, a wall plug or by your running vehicle.

Energy is stored in the battery and then used later as needed, which lends a lot of flexibility – especially if you’re looking to power things at night when neighboring campers are asleep or noise from a generator would be inconsiderate.

The inverter is rated for 1,500W with a surge rating of 3,000W.

It includes an integrated MPPT – if you’re not sure what that is, that’s ok! It’s basically one of two popular solar charging formats, and it’s considered the better, more stable technology of the two. MPPT = good quality.

The battery capacity is just shy of 100 Ah, which should be more than enough to run laptops, charge your phone, run your 12v refrigerator or campervan TV, etc.

Additionally, it’s a lithium ion battery which is widely regarded as the better battery technology.

When charging from a wall plug the unit takes less than 6 hours to fully charge.

11. Jackery Solar Generator For Van Life

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 is perfect for flexible ancillary power needs. It can be charged with solar, a wall plug, or by your running vehicle. A full charge takes less than 5 hours.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 has an MPPT charge controller – which is the best charge controller technology and has the most efficient charging capabilities.

And speaking of top of the line equipment, the Jackery also has a pure sine wave inverter. Pure sine inverters are the superior power supply technology (over modified sine wave) and also provide the most efficient conversion and use of electricity.

With so much flexibility, ease of use, and quality materials it’s easy to see why Jackery is widely used throughout the overlanding community.

Types Of Van Generators 

There are several different types of van generators on the market. The most popular is a gas generator. However, solar and propane generators are gaining popularity.

Gasoline Van Generators

Gasoline van generators are the most common type. This is because gas generators are efficient, easy to find fuel for, and easy to maintain.

While gasoline is less efficient than diesel, it tends to be cheaper to purchase.

Diesel Van Generators

Diesel generators tend to last longer, and diesel is a more efficient fuel source than gas. However, it’s also more expensive.

If you have a diesel van, or a diesel heater, then a diesel van generator might make the most sense as you can integrate it into your existing diesel tank.

Requiring only one type of fuel streamlines your van build. Additionally, diesel is non-flammable, so it’s a preferred fuel source in vans.

Unlike gas or propane options, diesel van generators can be noisier and heavier.

Propane Van Generators

Propane fuel is one of the most earth friendly fuel types, which makes it a popular choice for eco-minded overlanders.

It is also quieter than gasoline or diesel.

However, propane van generators are less efficient, so you’ll find yourself refueling more often.

If you already have propane in your van (for your oven, or water heater) then adding a propane van generator is a great option.

Solar Generators For Van Life

Solar generators are different from your typical fuel-powered van generator. They don’t require fuel, instead they’re charged by the sun, a wall plug (connected to the power grid), or your vehicle when it’s running.

Solar van generators have an inverter and a battery.

The battery holds a charge so you can use the generator anytime you’d like and the inverter is what converts the power to a usable voltage (110v – what most household appliances use, like a refrigerator, TV or air conditioner).

The best type of battery technology is a lithium ion battery, and the best type of inverter is a pure sine wave inverter.

When deciding on the best solar generator for van life be sure to pick something with these two components.

Because solar generators receive their power from solar energy, they require a solar charge controller. MPPT and PWM are the two common types of charge controllers. You’ll pay more for MPPT, but it’s the superior technology and provides more efficient energy use.

What To Look For In A Camper Van Generator

There are several things to look for in a camper van generator. The best option will depend on how you plan to use your van generator, so I’ve explained the considerations below.

Fuel And Efficiency

Efficiency of standard generators is based on how many gallons per hour they consume.

When comparing the efficiency of different van generators it’s important to pay attention to the load rating listed by the manufacturer. Load ratings must be equal in order to truly compare efficiency. Most manufacturers provide the efficiency at 25% load (meaning the van generator is operating at 25% of its potential capacity). 

Efficiency will also vary depending on the fuel type, so if you’re considering a dual fuel van generator each fuel type will have a different efficiency rating for the same amount of load.

Diesel is typically the most efficient fuel source for van generators, and propane is the least efficient.

Size And Weight

In any van build space is at a premium, and sometimes a 1 inch difference in your dimensions can eliminate an option entirely. It’s important to pay attention to the dimensions of your van generator to ensure it will fit where you intend to store it.

Additionally, consider how much weight you can add to your build. This includes not only the generator, but also the additional fuel you’ll need to carry.

Noise Levels

If you plan to use your van generator at night, or in campgrounds, then how much noise it produces will be an important consideration.

Standard van generators typically list a decibel (dB) rating.

However, some manufacturers choose not to publish a noise rating, stating that there’s no industry standard for measuring noise. In this case, I rely heavily on user reviews to gauge whether noise will be an issue.

However, if you’ve opted to use a solar generator then noise is much less of a concern. These van generators typically make no more noise than a computer fan. Your neighbors will never even know you’re running an inverter!

Altitude Kits

If you plan to spend summers in the mountains, escaping the heat, or winters at altitude chasing powder then you want to consider manufacturers specs for performance at altitude.

In general, things above 5,000 feet of elevation tend to perform differently. Fuel burns differently at altitude, so this is an important consideration for standard van generators.

However, if you have a solar generator for your van this is a non-issue as no fuel is used.

CARB Compliance

CARB stands for California Air Resource Board, a branch of the California Environmental Protection Agency. The board is charged with protecting the public from harmful effects of air pollution.

In order for a van generator to be sold in California it must meet CARB rules.

If you live in, or plan to travel to California, it’s important to have a van generator which is CARB compliant.

Note: Because solar generators do not use fuel or produce harmful emissions they are not regulated under CARB legislation.

Portable Vs Built-In Van Generators

Built-in van generators are great for ease of use and win in the convenience category, but they’re less common and more difficult to install in your van build.

A built-in van generator is one that is permanently installed onto your rig – this makes it more difficult to steal, easier to use, and more convenient all around. 

Realistically, a portable van generator is more common in van builds. This is because van builds are different from RV builds – they have limited space and limited exterior (ventilated) storage.

There are limited options when it comes to a permanent, built-in generator in your van. While portable van generators are less convenient for daily use, they are the easiest installation option.

Lastly, built-in van generators tend to be much bigger with larger power outputs. Since van’s do not tend to require a significant amount of power (unlike RVs that might run multiple AC units simultaneously) the cost of a built-in generator isn’t justified by the actually energy requirements of a campervan.

Standard Vs Inverter Van Generators

The primary difference between a standard vs inverter van generator is its efficiency.

An inverter is the component inside of solar generators that converts the stored battery power into energy (so “inverter generator” is sometimes used synonymously with “solar generator” – they’re technically two different things, but both produce electricity without the need for fuel).

A standard van generator constantly runs at the same speed (~3600 RPM) regardless of how much power is needed, or being used.

Whereas, an inverter generator adjusts its power based on the electricity needed.

A standard generator produces electricity by mechanically powering an engine, fueled by gasoline/propane/diesel. The engine turns an alternator, which produces alternating current (AC).

An inverter generator pulls DC power from a battery (stored there from solar, shore power, etc) and then uses electronics to convert (“invert”) the DC battery power into AC power your appliances require.

Additionally, a standard vs. inverter van generator varies by how “clean” the electrical output is.

This matters the most for sensitive electronics (like your laptop). If you’ve heard of pure sine waves before, this is where it comes into play.

How “natural” the electronic wave output is matters for sensitive electronics so they are not damaged by improper charging (note: this is a very abbreviated explanation).

A standard van generator, under a high load, can have Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of up to 25%. THD is bad, and you want this number to be as close to 0% as possible.

An inverter van generator typically has Total Harmonic Distortion of less than 3%.

Depending on how you plan to use your van generator, THD may or may not be a factor to consider in your decision between a standard vs inverter van generator.

What Size Van Generator Do I Need?

What size van generator you need depends on how you plan to use it. Determining the best size for your usage needs requires some simple math.

First, make a list of all the AC appliances you want to operate.

Next, determine what the wattage rating for each is (this is usually on a tag located on the cord, or on the manufacturers website).

If possible, find the surge watts (also called starting or peak) and the rated watts (also called running or continuous).

For example, a typical hair dryer may use 2000W when starting, and 1800W when running. Many appliances (especially ones with a heating element) will have a higher initial draw of energy while they start up before settling in to a lower on-going power draw.

Finally, you want to sum the total surge and rated watts for all of the items you might want to use simultaneously.

For example, if you plan to run your water kettle and air conditioner at the same time, then you’ll want to consider the total surge and rated watts for those when picking a van generator size.

Now that you have the total size requirements for your van generator, be sure to size up. In general, a 20% margin of error is recommended.

Take the wattage you’ve determined you need and multiple my 1.2 to get your van generator size.

For example, if the total surge rating for all of the appliances you would run at the same time is 1,000 you will need a van generator rated for at least 1,200 watts of surge power.

In general, most van lifers find a 2,000 watt van generator is enough. I have a 3,000 watt inverter and it has been far more than enough for all of my needs.

Using A Van Generator To Power An AC Unit

While you are able to use a van generator to power an AC unit, you’ll need a fairly large generator. Typically a 3,000 watt generator is required, but check the manufacturers ratings for your AC unit.

I have an RV AC unit in my van and power it with a 3,000 watt inverter.

Does A Camper Van Have A Generator?

Not all camper van’s have a generator. Whether a camper van has a generator or not is based on personal preference.

Most camper vans are built to be fully off-grid, so they use solar power and a battery bank (ie. inverter generator) for their electrical needs instead of a standard generator powered by fuel. 

However, camper vans in hot climates who rely on AC consistently can carry a van generator in order to operate their AC unit, or other power hungry appliances.

In general, a van generator is not the primary power source for most overlanding vans.

Can A Generator Be Used Inside A Van?

No! Van generators use gasoline, diesel or propane as fuel, which produces carbon monoxide. CO poisoning can kill you in minutes.

Only use van generators in fully ventilated areas, and never use them indoors.

A simple CO detector is important for safety in a van, and could save your life.

My CO detector is part of my van security system, so whether I am in my van or not I will receive an alert on my phone. This is really important because I travel with a dog, and sometimes he’s left in my van when I run a quick errand – I feel much better knowing if something goes wrong I will be alerted immediately.