Your Guide To The BEST Generators For Free Camping In Australia

If you’ve decided a generator belongs in your Big Lap setup, the next question is which one. The market is flooded with options, from compact 1kVA units that’ll charge your batteries to beefy 3kVA machines that’ll run your air conditioner. The right choice depends on what you need to power, how much noise you can tolerate, and how much weight and space you’re willing to give up.

This guide covers inverter generators only. Conventional (non-inverter) generators are cheaper but produce “dirty” power that can damage sensitive electronics, they’re significantly louder, and they’re less fuel-efficient. For caravan use, an inverter generator is the only sensible choice.

What To Look For

Wattage (kVA): The generator’s power output determines what you can run. A 2kVA unit produces approximately 1,600W continuous, which handles battery charging, a microwave, a coffee machine, and most power tools. A 3kVA unit (approximately 2,400W continuous) adds the ability to run a rooftop air conditioner. Unless you specifically need air conditioning off-grid, a 2kVA unit covers most caravan needs.

Noise level: Measured in decibels (dB) at rated load, typically at 7 metres distance. Under 55dB is considered quiet for a generator. Under 50dB is very quiet. Most quality inverter generators sit between 48 and 58dB at rated load and drop to 40 to 50dB at quarter load (eco mode). For comparison, a normal conversation is about 60dB.

Fuel efficiency and run time: Look at the run time per tank at quarter load (eco mode), which is how a generator typically operates when charging batteries. A 2kVA inverter generator running at quarter load typically runs 8 to 12 hours on a 4 to 5 litre tank. Fuel consumption at quarter load is roughly 0.4 to 0.7 litres per hour.

Weight: A 2kVA inverter generator weighs 20 to 24kg. A 3kVA unit weighs 30 to 35kg. This is dead weight you’re carrying every day. If you rarely use the generator, that weight penalty is significant. Consider where it’ll be stored; tunnel boots are the most common spot, but 25kg on one side of the van affects loading balance.

Outlets: At minimum, you need a 15-amp outlet (to plug into your van’s shore power inlet) and ideally a 12V DC outlet for direct battery charging. Most quality generators include both, plus standard 10-amp household outlets.

Eco mode: Essential for caravan use. Eco mode adjusts engine speed to match the actual load, reducing noise and fuel consumption when you’re running below maximum capacity (which is most of the time when charging batteries). All quality inverter generators include this feature.

Product Recommendations

Yamaha EF2200iS (2.2kVA)

The Yamaha is widely considered the benchmark for camping generators. It’s quiet (51.5dB at rated load), reliable (Yamaha engines are legendary for longevity), fuel-efficient (10.5 hours at quarter load on a 4.4L tank), and produces clean power. The build quality is a clear step above budget options: better materials, tighter tolerances, and a more refined engine note. It has been the top-selling generator for Australian caravanners for years.

The downside is price. At $1,800 to $2,200, it’s the most expensive option in this guide. But for a piece of equipment that needs to start reliably after sitting unused for three months, the Yamaha’s reputation for dependability is worth the premium. Weight: 24.7kg.

Honda EU22i (2.2kVA)

Honda’s direct competitor to the Yamaha EF2200iS. Virtually identical specs: 2,200VA output, 53dB at rated load, 8.1 hours at quarter load on a 3.6L tank. Honda engines are equally reliable, and the EU22i has a strong following among caravanners. The choice between Yamaha and Honda often comes down to dealer availability and personal brand preference. Both are excellent.

Around $1,700 to $2,100. Weight: 21.1kg (slightly lighter than the Yamaha).

Gentrax 2.2kVA Inverter Generator

The Gentrax has become the budget darling of the caravan community. At $600 to $800 (often on sale at My Generator and similar outlets), it’s less than half the price of the Yamaha and Honda. Output, noise level, and features are comparable on paper. The engine isn’t a Yamaha or Honda (it’s a Chinese-made OHV engine), so long-term reliability is less proven, but plenty of Big Lappers report good results over several years of use.

The Gentrax is a solid choice if you need a generator but can’t justify $2,000, or if you’re buying one as occasional backup rather than regular-use equipment. Weight: 23kg.

Briggs & Stratton P2400 (2.4kVA)

A mid-range option from a well-known engine manufacturer. The P2400 offers slightly more power than the 2.2kVA units (useful headroom for startup surges), reasonable noise levels (55dB at rated load), and decent build quality. Around $1,000 to $1,300. A good middle ground between budget and premium. Weight: 24kg.

Yamaha EF2800i (2.8kVA) / Honda EU30is (3.0kVA)

If you need to run a rooftop air conditioner off-grid, you need a generator in the 2.8 to 3.0kVA range. Both the Yamaha EF2800i and Honda EU30is handle this job, but they’re significantly heavier (29 to 35kg), louder, more expensive ($2,500 to $3,500), and use more fuel. Only worth it if air conditioning off the generator is a genuine requirement.

Generator Safety & Best Practice

Never run a generator inside or directly next to your caravan. Generators produce carbon monoxide, which is odourless and lethal in enclosed spaces. Position the generator at least 3 to 5 metres from the van, with the exhaust pointing away from sleeping and living areas.

Use the correct fuel. Most inverter generators run on unleaded petrol. Use fresh fuel; petrol left sitting for months can degrade and cause starting issues. If storing the generator for extended periods, drain the fuel or add a fuel stabiliser.

Regular maintenance. Change the oil as per the manufacturer’s schedule (typically every 50 to 100 hours of use or annually). Check the spark plug, air filter, and fuel filter. Store it clean and dry. A generator that won’t start when you need it is worse than not having one at all.

Respect noise restrictions. Always check camp rules before running your generator. Observe quiet hours. If in doubt, ask your neighbours. A considerate generator user is a welcome one; an inconsiderate one makes enemies fast.