What size generator do I need for a van or RV?

For charging a house battery via a converter/charger (1,500–2,000W): a 2,000W generator is sufficient. For running a rooftop AC unit (1,200–1,800W): a 2,000–3,000W generator depending on the AC unit's startup surge. For running multiple appliances simultaneously: 3,000W+. Most van lifers who carry a generator use a 2,000W inverter generator for its quiet operation and clean power.

What is an inverter generator and why does it matter?

An inverter generator uses electronics to produce clean, stable AC power (low THD) safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, converter/chargers, and CPAP machines. Conventional (non-inverter) generators produce power with higher harmonic distortion that can damage sensitive equipment. For van use, always choose an inverter generator.

RV Generators: Running Watts, Starting Loads, Safety

Select a generator by continuous output, startup demand and the equipment it will supply, then follow the generator's outdoor-use and exhaust instructions.

A generator is the last resort for most van lifers — noisy, requires fuel, and many campsites prohibit them. But for winter off-grid use, extended remote stays, or running an air conditioner, they're genuinely useful. When you need one, here are the best options.

For an overview of all charging methods: RV charging options compared and what size generator for an RV?.

Inverter generators only for van use

Always buy an inverter generator for van or RV charging use. Conventional generators produce power with significant harmonic distortion that can damage sensitive electronics (converter/chargers, laptops, CPAP machines). Inverter generators produce stable, clean AC power safe for all equipment — and they're significantly quieter.

Best generators for van and RV use

Honda EU2200i — Best overall

Price: ~$1,100 | Output: 2,200W peak, 1,800W continuous | Noise: 48–57 dB | Weight: 47 lbs | Runtime: 8.1 hours at 25% load

The Honda EU2200i is the gold standard for portable inverter generators. Extremely quiet (whisper mode at ~48 dB — conversation level), reliable, fuel-efficient, and Honda's reputation for longevity is unmatched. The parallel capability lets you link two EU2200i units for up to 4,400W if needed.

The downside: $1,100 is a lot if you only use a generator a few times a year. But van lifers who depend on a generator in winter consistently choose Honda for the reliability.

Best for: Full-timers who need a generator regularly; anyone in cold/cloudy regions where solar isn't enough.

Yamaha EF2200iS

Price: ~$1,050 | Output: 2,200W peak, 1,800W continuous | Noise: 51.5–61 dB | Weight: 55 lbs

The Honda's direct competitor — similar specs, similar price. The Honda runs quieter and is lighter; the Yamaha has slightly easier access to the oil fill. Either is excellent. If your area has better Yamaha dealer support than Honda, that's a tie-breaker.

WEN 56200i — Best budget inverter generator

Price: ~$350 | Output: 2,000W peak, 1,600W continuous | Noise: 51 dB | Weight: 48 lbs

The WEN 56200i is a capable budget inverter generator at roughly 1/3 the price of a Honda. Clean power output, reasonable noise level, and enough output to run a converter/charger for battery charging. Reliability and longevity aren't in Honda's league, but for occasional use it's a legitimate option.

Best for: Budget-conscious van lifers who want a generator for backup use only.

Champion 2500W Dual Fuel Inverter

Price: ~$500 | Output: 2,500W peak, 2,000W continuous | Fuel: Gas or propane | Weight: 53 lbs

The dual-fuel capability is useful if you already carry propane for cooking — you can run the generator off your propane supply. The 2,500W peak handles most converter/charger + some appliance loads simultaneously. Not as refined as Honda but solid for the price.

EcoFlow Smart Generator (Dual Fuel)

Price: ~$500 | Output: 1,800W | Fuel: Gas or LPG

EcoFlow's generator is designed to integrate directly with their portable power stations, auto-starting when the station reaches a low battery level. If you're in the EcoFlow ecosystem (Delta Pro, Delta Pro Ultra), this integration is genuinely useful.

Generator safety: always use outdoors

Never run a generator inside a vehicle or enclosed space

Generators produce carbon monoxide — an odorless, colorless, lethal gas. Always run generators outside, downwind, at least 20 feet from the van. Never leave a generator running in a garage with the door open, next to a door or window, or under an awning. CO poisoning kills people every year in camping scenarios.

Step diagram: Sizing an RV generator in order

Worked planning check

A 1,200W charger and 600W appliance operating together require 1,800W running output before startup margin. A generator advertised by a 2,000W peak figure may have a lower continuous rating. Never operate a generator inside the van, garage, awning or another enclosed space.

The figures or dimensions in this example are explicit planning assumptions, not a product test or an installation specification. Replace them with your equipment data and actual measurements.

Planning questions

Is generator peak power its usable continuous output?

No. Check the rated continuous output, starting-load allowance and any temperature or altitude derating before adding loads.

Can I use a generator under an awning?

Follow the manufacturer’s outdoor placement and exhaust-clearance instructions. Never run it in a van or enclosed space, and prevent exhaust entering occupied spaces.

Can a generator charge the house battery directly?

Use a compatible charging arrangement specified for the generator and battery system. A mains charger’s actual input and grounding requirements must be checked, not just its battery-side current.

Use the free electrical planner to organise your daily loads and charging assumptions.