When it comes to van life, having a reliable power source is crucial. A generator can provide the necessary power to run appliances, charge devices, and keep the lights on.
Best Generators for Van Life
We know how important it is to have a reliable source of power when living life on the road. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best generators for van life. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-powered generator for all your electrical needs, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh/1000W EB240 Solar Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable power station for your van life, the MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh/1000W EB240 Solar Generator is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 2400Wh capacity and 1000W AC inverter make it perfect for off-grid living.
- With 8 versatile ports, you can easily charge most devices under 1000W.
- The EB240 can be recharged from 0-80% within 10 hours using a 200W AC adapter, a generator, or Max. 500W solar panels (not included).
Cons
- At 48.5 pounds, it’s quite heavy and may not be the most portable option.
- Some users have reported issues with the unit malfunctioning after only a few uses.
- The actual battery capacity may be lower than advertised depending on your use case.
In our experience, the MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh/1000W EB240 Solar Generator is a reliable and efficient power station that can handle most of your off-grid power needs. The 2400Wh capacity and 1000W AC inverter are perfect for running high-power devices, and the 8 versatile ports make it easy to charge all your devices. We also appreciate the multi-recharging options, which allow you to recharge the unit using a variety of methods.
However, the unit is quite heavy, which may be a concern if you’re looking for something more portable. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the unit malfunctioning after only a few uses, so it’s important to keep this in mind when considering this product. Finally, while the battery capacity is advertised as 2400Wh, the actual capacity may be lower depending on your use case.
Overall, we would recommend the MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh/1000W EB240 Solar Generator for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient power station for their van life. Just be sure to keep the weight and potential issues in mind before making your purchase.
GRECELL Portable Power Station 500W
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable power station for your van life, the GRECELL Portable Power Station 500W is a great option.
Pros
- With multiple output options, you can power up to 10 devices simultaneously, making it perfect for van life.
- The high capacity of 519Wh (140400mAh) can power most of your essential devices and small appliances.
- It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for your outdoor camping, road trip, fishing, hunting, boating, RV trip, and indoor blackout.
Cons
- It cannot be used to power devices with a rated power of more than 500 watts.
- You need to use and recharge this power station at least one time every three months.
- You need to turn off the AC output when not in use, otherwise it may run the battery out even without other loads.
We have used the GRECELL Portable Power Station 500W during our van life trips and it has never let us down. It is very easy to use and provides reliable power for all our devices.
The multiple output options are a great feature, allowing us to power up to 10 devices simultaneously. The high capacity of 519Wh (140400mAh) is enough to power most of our essential devices and small appliances, such as our phone, laptop, tablet, light, fan, router, TV, projector, small blender, car refrigerator, drone, camera, and CPAP machine.
The power station is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for our outdoor camping, road trip, fishing, hunting, boating, RV trip, and indoor blackout. The built-in LED flashlight with light-strobe-SOS modes is a great addition, making this power station convenient for outdoor activities and home emergencies.
However, it cannot be used to power devices with a rated power of more than 500 watts. You need to use and recharge this power station at least one time every three months. You also need to turn off the AC output when not in use, otherwise it may run the battery out even without other loads.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and portable power station for your van life, we highly recommend the GRECELL Portable Power Station 500W.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient power station for van life, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With 1002Wh capacity and 8 outlets, this power station can power up to 90% of your home appliances, making it ideal for outdoor off-grid activities and home backup power.
- The smart MPPT controller allows for optimal charging efficiency with 100% green energy from solar panels. The power station can be fully charged with 2 Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels within 6 hours or only 5.5 hours via AC wall outlet charging.
- The industry-leading cylindrical batteries meet UL safety standards and are certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test. The pure sine wave inverter delivers constant voltage that protects equipment from damage.
Cons
- The power station and the solar panel(s) will be shipped in separate packages, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- While the power station is relatively quiet, it may not be completely noise-free.
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 for van life. It’s easy to set up and use, and the power capacity and efficiency make it a great choice for both outdoor activities and home backup power.
ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W(Peak 600W)
If you’re looking for a portable power station that can power up to 9 devices and is perfect for outdoor activities, emergency power supply and home backup, the ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W(Peak 600W) is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The ALLWEI portable power station is equipped with 280Wh/78000mAh capacity, peak 600W, built-in 3-level LED light and SOS mode, making it perfect for outdoor needs.
- With 2* AC PURE SINE WAVE outlets, 1* 110V/60Hz input, 1* car cigarette lighter for car appliances, 3* DC ports, 2* USB-A, 1* USB-C fast charging PD60W, this battery generator can power up to 9 devices such as drone, tablet, phones, iPad, laptop, camera, CPAP, etc.
- The ALLWEI solar power generators work with MPPT controller and can be charged in four ways: ALLWEI 100W solar panel, AC wall outlet, 12V/24V car socket, and generator within 12V~24V.
Cons
- The ALLWEI Portable Power Station is not waterproof, so it should be kept dry and away from water.
- Some users have reported that the LCD screen is not very durable and can stop working after some time.
- The ALLWEI Portable Power Station is not very lightweight compared to some other models on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the ALLWEI Portable Power Station 300W(Peak 600W) for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station that can be used for outdoor activities, emergency power supply, and home backup. With its powerful capacity, multiple charging options, and outstanding safety guarantee, this product is definitely worth considering.
Airiver Worlds Smallest 10L Family Atmospheric Water Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable water generator for your van life, the Airiver Worlds Smallest 10L Family Atmospheric Water Generator is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Airiver generator is compact and portable, making it easy to take with you on your adventures.
- It generates enough pure, life-giving water for a family of four, making it perfect for van life, camping, and surviving natural disasters.
- The generator is designed with ANTI-LEAK components, ensuring 100% containment of unwanted particulates.
Cons
- The generator requires a low 250W/day electricity requirement, which may not be suitable for some off-grid setups.
- The filter set needs to be replaced every 12 to 18 months, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The initial investment cost may be high for some people.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Airiver generator during a van life trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The generator is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it easy to store and transport. Despite its small size, it generates enough water for a family of four, which is impressive.
One of the standout features of the Airiver generator is its ANTI-LEAK components, which ensure that unwanted particulates are fully contained. This gives us peace of mind knowing that the water we’re drinking is clean and safe.
While the 250W/day electricity requirement may not be suitable for some off-grid setups, we found that it paired well with our solar generator. Additionally, the filter set needs to be replaced every 12 to 18 months, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the Airiver Worlds Smallest 10L Family Atmospheric Water Generator for anyone looking for a reliable and portable water generator for their van life, camping, or surviving natural disasters.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best generator for van life, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when shopping for a generator:
Power Output
The power output of a generator is measured in watts. It’s important to choose a generator that can provide enough power to run all of your necessary appliances and devices. Take a look at the wattage requirements of your electronics and appliances, and choose a generator that can provide that amount of power.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on different types of fuel, such as gasoline, propane, or diesel. Consider which type of fuel is most readily available and convenient for your needs. Keep in mind that some fuels may be more expensive or harder to find than others.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, which can be a concern when living in a van or camping in close proximity to others. Look for generators that have a low noise level, measured in decibels (dB). A generator with a noise level of 60 dB or lower is considered quiet.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a generator can impact its portability and ease of use. Consider the amount of space you have available in your van for storing the generator, as well as how easy it is to move and transport.
Price
Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and choose a generator that fits within your price range while still meeting your needs for power output, fuel type, noise level, and size and weight.
In summary, when shopping for a generator for van life, it’s important to consider the power output, fuel type, noise level, size and weight, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a generator that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best solar generator for van life?
When it comes to choosing the best solar generator for van life, it is important to consider your power needs. Look for a generator that has enough power to run all of your appliances and devices. Some popular options include the Goal Zero Yeti, Jackery Explorer, and Renogy Phoenix.
How do I install a generator in my van?
Installing a generator in your van can be a complex process, so it is important to consult with a professional or do thorough research before attempting it yourself. Consider factors such as ventilation, wiring, and battery storage when planning your installation.
What is the difference between a van life generator and solar power?
A van life generator and solar power both provide electricity for your van, but they work in different ways. A generator runs on fuel and produces electricity, while solar power uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider your specific needs when deciding which option to choose.
How many watts do I need for van life?
The number of watts you need for van life will depend on the appliances and devices you plan to use. A good rule of thumb is to add up the wattage of all your devices and appliances, and then add an additional 20% to account for power surges. This will give you a rough estimate of the number of watts you need.
How long will a portable generator last?
The lifespan of a portable generator will depend on factors such as usage, maintenance, and quality. With proper maintenance and care, a good quality generator can last for many years.
Are dual fuel generators worth it for van life?
Dual fuel generators can be a good option for van life, as they allow you to switch between different fuel sources depending on availability. However, they may be more expensive than single fuel generators, so it is important to consider your budget and needs before making a decision.
