What Size Generator Do I Need For Camping?

There’s nothing worse than setting up camp, firing up your brand-new generator, plugging everything in… and watching it choke under load. What a bloody nightmare! The good news is that THIS SITUATION IS AVOIDABLE.

Whether you’re powering a caravan in the middle of the bush, running tools on-site, or keeping the lights on during a blackout, knowing what size generator you actually need can save you from headaches, and a few burnt fuses.

This guide breaks it all down in plain Aussie English. No BS. No fluff. Just practical info to help you choose the right generator for the job.

⚙️ Why Generator Size Actually Matters

Think of generator “size” not in physical terms but in power output, measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). Too small and you’ll trip it constantly. Too big and you’ll waste fuel and money.

Every appliance you plug in draws a certain amount of power. Your generator needs to cover both the running wattage (what it uses once running) and the starting wattage (the extra juice it needs to kick on).

For example:

• A fridge might run at 150W but start at 600W.

• A microwave might need 1,200W steady.

• A caravan air conditioner could draw 2,000–3,000W just to start.

Add them all up and that’s roughly the size of the generator you’ll need.

🔋 Running vs Starting Watts (And Why It Catches People Out)

Most folks forget the starting load. If you buy a 2kW generator because your total running load is 1.8kW, you’re cutting it way too fine.

A good rule of thumb:

Generator size = Total running watts × at least 1.5 

That gives you headroom for surges when motors start up. Think fridges, pumps, or power tools.

For instance, take a caravan aircon. Let's say that aircon needs 2.5kW to start and 1.8kW to run. Using the rule listed above, you would want a generator with at least 2.7kW of power to run your air conditioner.

But there's more to consider..

You should consider that starting wattage can become a limiting factor for your generator. If you're running an aircon that requires 3.3kW of starting power but 1.8kW of running power you will need a larger generator to support start up.

For the example above, an iTechWorld Redback 3500W Generator would be perfect.

If you're unsure whether your generator can support your appliances always consult your appliance user guide, otherwise give the Outback SafeTrack team a call on 1300 902 361

🚐 What Size Generator You’ll Need

Here’s a rough breakdown based on how you’re using your generator. Please note that the limits listed below are estimations only and you should always consult your user guides first.

🏕️ Camping or Caravanning

For the average off-grid setup: lights, fridge, phone charging, and maybe an inverter A/C, you’ll need around 2,000–3,500W.

👉 A perfect match is something like the iTechWorld Redback 3500W Inverter Generator.
It’s whisper-quiet, fuel-efficient, and ideal for caravans or camper trailers.

🧰 Trades & Worksites

If you’re running grinders, drills, and small saws, you’ll want at least a 3.5–4.5kW inverter generator.
Look at the Redback 4500W Inverter Generator — heaps of grunt, stable sine wave output, and enough power to handle multiple tools at once.

🏡 Home Backup Power

When the power goes out and you want to run the fridge, lights, and a few appliances, go for 5–6.5kW or more.
Something like a 6.5kW Redback inverter generator gives you backup peace of mind without blowing out your fuel bill.

💡 Generator Wattage Load Calculation Example

Let’s say you’re off-grid and want to run:

You’d want a minimum 4.5kW inverter generator to handle that kind of load, which is bang on where the Redback 4500W shines.

🔇 Why Inverter Generators Are the Way to Go

There’s a reason inverter generators are dominating the camping and off-grid market. Compared to old-school open-frame models, they’re:

• Quieter: You can have a yarn beside one without shouting.

• Fuel-Efficient: Auto-adjusts engine speed depending on the load.

• Cleaner: Produces a pure sine wave, safe for sensitive electronics and protects against surges.

• Portable: Smaller, lighter, easier to chuck in the ute or van.

If you’re unsure what makes them better, check out our breakdown:
👉 Power Stations vs Generators — Which Is Better for You?

🔍 Comparing Generator Sizes — 2kW vs 3.5kW vs 6.5kW

Generators come in many different sizes including the popular 2kW, 3.5kW and 6.5kW variants. Here’s a simple guide to what each size can realistically power.

⚡ 2kW Inverter Generator

Perfect for:

• Small campers

• Fridges, lights, chargers

• Low-draw appliances

Pros: Lightweight, super quiet, and fuel-efficient.
Cons: Won’t run air-cons or heavy tools.

⚡ 3.5kW Inverter Generator

Perfect for:

• Caravans and camper trailers

• Mid-range appliances (TVs, kettles, fridges)

• Light trade use

Pros: Balanced size and power, quiet, portable.
Cons: Still limited for heavy workshop tools.

⚡ 6.5kW Inverter Generator

Perfect for:

• Home backup

• Large caravans or RVs

• Multiple heavy-draw items (A/C, microwave, tools)

Pros: Serious grunt, can handle almost anything.
Cons: Heavier, more fuel consumption.

🧮 How to Work Out Your Generators Power Needs

Follow these three steps:

1. List everything you plan to run — fridge, lights, fans, TV, etc.

2. Check wattage labels or use online resources like Energyrating.gov.au to understand your energy consumption.

3. Add up your running watts, then multiply by 1.5.

4. Account for extra watts if required, if the previous number doesn't cover the minimum required for starting watts.

You’ll end up with your total generator size in watts (or kilowatts if you divide by 1,000).

Inverter Generators will generally allow a higher starting wattage than running wattage for extra starting power. Make sure you take notice of the user manual of both your inverter generator and your household appliance.

💡 Pro tip: Always leave 20–25% buffer. Running a generator flat-out constantly will wear it out fast.

🔌 Tips for Matching Your Generator to Your Setup

• Use quality extension leads rated for outdoor use.

• Don’t overload your generator — check the continuous output rating, not the peak.

• Keep it ventilated — exhaust fumes are no joke and will become hazardous if you position your generator indoors.

• Consider fuel type: Most portable inverter generators run on unleaded, but dual-fuel models are becoming popular.

• Think about portability: Wheels and handles matter if you’re moving it regularly.

🧠 What About Parallel Capability?

Some inverter generators allow parallel connection, meaning you can link two identical units for double the output.

That’s a ripper feature for travellers who start small but might need more power later on. Instead of replacing your generator, you just add another.

💬 Common Mistakes Aussies Make When Buying Generators

1. Under-sizing it. The #1 rookie error. Always overestimate your power needs and grab a bigger generator than you think you will need.

2. Ignoring surge power. That air-con won’t start without it.

3. Buying cheap knock-offs. They’re loud, inefficient, and unreliable.

4. Skipping maintenance. Change the oil, clean filters, and store it right.

5. Forgetting weight and fuel needs. Bigger generators means bigger petrol demands.

🔧 A Quick Word on Compliance & Safety

When connecting to your caravan or home switchboard, always use a licensed electrician to install transfer switches or inlet sockets. Don’t back-feed power into your home circuits as it’s dangerous and illegal.

The NT worksafes guide to standby power safety has great info on doing it right.

🌞 Alternatives to Generators

Even the best inverter generator will still use a decent amount of fuel during operation. If you want to reduce fuel use, consider adding a solar panel kit or a portable power station for light loads.

Check out our range of solar for camping and portable power stations to round out your setup.

🏁 Getting the Right Sized Generator the First Time

Choosing the right generator size isn’t rocket science — it’s just about knowing what you’ll run and adding a bit of buffer.

Here’s the cheat sheet:

• Camping setups: 2–3.5kW

• Caravans / trades: 3.5–4.5kW

• Home backup: 5–6.5kW+

When in doubt, go one size up — better to have extra grunt than fall short halfway through cooking dinner.

✅ What Sized Generator Do I Need? Wrap Up

If you’re after a reliable, quiet, and powerful generator for your next trip, job, or backup setup — you can’t go wrong with a solid inverter generator. They’re efficient, easy to use, and perfect for the Aussie lifestyle.

Have a squiz at our inverter generator range today and get your power sorted before your next adventure.

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