Recommended size: 3,500–5,000W
A 3,500–5,000W generator is the right size for RV camping with air conditioning. An RV air conditioner draws 3,000W starting and 1,800W running, leaving enough headroom on a 3,500W+ unit for your RV fridge, TV, lights, and phone chargers. Look for an inverter model or one with a TT-30R RV outlet.
Best value in the portable inverter class. CO Shield safety shutoff, parallel-ready, and RV-ready with a TT-30R outlet.
RV generators face a unique challenge: the air conditioner dominates the power budget at 3,000W starting surge, but everything else in the RV draws relatively little. A 3,500W inverter generator handles the AC startup plus 500–700W of other loads. If you want more headroom for a microwave or hair dryer, step up to 5,000W. The Champion 3500W Inverter listed below includes a TT-30R outlet specifically designed for RV hookup. Inverter generators are strongly preferred for RVs because they produce cleaner power (lower THD) that protects sensitive electronics and run significantly quieter than conventional models.
| Generator | Starting W | Running W | Fuel | Noise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champion 3500W Inverter with CO Shield | 3,500W | 2,300W | Gasoline | 58 dB |
| DuroMax XP5500HX Dual Fuel | 5,500W | 4,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 69 dB |
| Westinghouse WGen7500DFc | 9,500W | 7,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 72 dB |
| Generac GP7500E Dual Fuel | 9,400W | 7,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 74 dB |
Champion
Best value in the portable inverter class. CO Shield safety shutoff, parallel-ready, and RV-ready with a TT-30R outlet.
DuroMax
★4.4·370 ratings
Affordable dual fuel option with CO Alert safety shutoff and MX2 power boost technology. Runs on gas or propane for flexible fuel options during outages.
Westinghouse
Dual fuel flexibility with CO sensor safety shutoff. Transfer-switch ready with remote electric start and 6.6-gallon tank.
Generac
★4.4·175 ratings
Powers most essential home circuits during an outage. Electric start and dual fuel flexibility from a trusted brand.
The accessories most generator owners add to run safely and connect to the house.
Transfer / Interlock
★4.7·1,733 ratings
Lets you safely back-feed your panel from one inlet. Confirm it matches your breaker brand and amperage.
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Power Cord
★4.8·2,827 ratings
Heavy 10-gauge twist-lock cord rated to 7,500W, the standard link between a portable unit and your inlet box.
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Weather Cover
★4.6·2,107 ratings
Keeps rain and snow off the unit so you can run it through a storm with proper ventilation.
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CO Safety
★4.7·19,762 ratings
Generator exhaust is the top cause of CO poisoning during outages. A battery alarm keeps working when the grid is down.
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Fuel Care
★4.8·35,997 ratings
Treats 40 gallons and keeps stored fuel fresh for up to 24 months so the engine starts when you need it.
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