Understand the Three Main Power Options
Generators, portable power stations and standalone inverters can all provide useful power away from mains electricity, but they do different jobs. A petrol generator produces electricity while its engine is running. A portable power station stores energy in an internal battery. A standalone inverter converts compatible battery DC power into AC output; it does not create or store energy by itself.
Petrol Inverter Generators
A petrol inverter generator can suit trips where you want an independent source of AC power and carrying fuel is practical. Compare rated or continuous output, maximum output, fuel capacity, runtime, product weight, starting method, sockets and published noise information rather than choosing from maximum wattage alone.
The current Gentrax range includes compact through higher-output inverter generators. Output, runtime, fuel capacity, weight, remote-start features and noise figures vary by model, so check the individual product specifications.
Portable Power Stations and Solar Generators
Portable power stations store energy in a rechargeable battery and can combine AC, DC and USB outputs in one unit. Products sometimes described as solar generators are battery-based power stations that can be recharged from compatible solar panels; the power station stores and manages the energy rather than generating it from fuel.
Compare battery capacity in watt-hours (Wh), continuous AC output in watts (W), surge capability, available ports, charging methods, solar-input limits, battery chemistry, weight and recharge time. Capacity and output are different specifications, so a larger battery does not automatically mean a higher AC output.
12V to 240V Pure Sine Wave Inverters
A standalone inverter can be useful when you already have a suitable 12V battery system and need AC power for compatible equipment. The current Giantz range includes pure sine wave models from 600W through to 3000W continuous output, with higher short-duration peak ratings. Socket layouts, USB outputs, protections and appliance restrictions vary by model.
Pure sine wave is only one part of compatibility. The appliance voltage, running load, starting demand, load type and the inverter manufacturer's restrictions still need to match.
Start With What You Need to Power
List the equipment you expect to use, its input voltage, normal running wattage and any starting or surge requirement, then consider which items need to operate at the same time. This gives you a more useful target than simply buying the highest-output generator or inverter available.
Where equipment can run directly from a suitable 12V DC or USB supply, converting battery power to 240V AC may be unnecessary. Always follow the requirements of the exact appliance and power source.
Continuous Output vs Peak or Surge Output
Continuous or rated output is the power level intended for ongoing operation. Peak, surge or maximum output is a higher short-duration figure and should not be treated as the normal operating rating. Compare the combined running load with the continuous rating, then check whether any starting demand remains within the relevant short-duration limit.
Manufacturers may use slightly different terminology, so use the exact model specifications rather than assuming every maximum or peak figure is intended in the same way.
Appliance Starting Loads and Compatibility
Equipment with motors, compressors, pumps or transformers can have a higher demand when starting than during normal operation. Some inverters in the current range also carry specific restrictions for certain inductive loads. A large wattage number or pure sine wave label is not a guarantee that every appliance will be compatible.
For camping fridges, first check whether the fridge can operate directly from your available 12V supply. If using 240V output instead, confirm the fridge's running and starting requirements against the exact inverter, generator or power station.
Size the Inverter and Battery Together
High-output 12V inverters can draw substantial current from the battery. Check whether the battery type, usable capacity, discharge capability and battery-management system are suitable for the expected DC load. The battery bank, cable size, terminals, connection method and circuit protection also need to suit the inverter.
Use the cable size, cable length, fuse or other overcurrent protection and installation sequence specified for the exact equipment. Maintain correct polarity, keep connections secure and protect cable routes from abrasion, sharp edges, moving parts and unnecessary heat.
Battery Capacity and Runtime for Power Stations
Battery capacity is commonly shown in watt-hours. It helps compare stored energy, while the AC watt rating describes how much output the power station can supply. Actual runtime depends on the connected load, conversion losses, battery-management limits, temperature and the unit's operating behaviour.
A simple Wh divided by W calculation can be useful as a rough comparison, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed runtime. Check the manufacturer's guidance for the exact power station and connected device where available.
Solar Charging for Portable Power Stations
Selected portable power stations can accept compatible solar input, but allowable panel voltage, power, connectors and charging configuration vary. Do not connect a solar array simply because the connector fits; keep the completed array within the power station's published solar-input limits.
For separate panels and battery-charging equipment, browse 12V Solar and 12V Solar Regulators.
Generator Size, Weight, Noise and Runtime
Touring practicality matters alongside output. Compare dimensions, weight, fuel capacity, runtime at the stated load, starting method and the conditions attached to any published noise measurement. A compact unit may be easier to transport, while a larger generator can provide more output but needs more storage space and handling.
Runtime and noise figures are model-specific and depend on the manufacturer's stated test conditions. Use them to compare exact products rather than treating one figure as a promise for every campsite or load.
Generator Ventilation and Refuelling Safety
Operate petrol generators outdoors in a well-ventilated location and never inside a tent, caravan, vehicle, garage or other enclosed area where exhaust gases can accumulate. Follow the manufacturer's placement, clearance and weather-protection instructions and direct exhaust away from occupied areas.
Follow the manufacturer's shutdown and refuelling procedure and allow the generator to cool before adding fuel. Keep fuel in suitable containers away from ignition sources, and do not restart until any spill has been dealt with safely.
Campground Generator Rules Vary
Generator rules are location-specific. Some campgrounds and parks prohibit generators, while others permit them only during defined operating periods or under noise and site conditions. Check the current rules for the exact campground before travelling rather than assuming a generator can be used everywhere.
Protect Leads, Connections and Building Wiring
Inspect extension leads, plugs and power boards before use, keep electrical connections protected from water and damage, and route leads to reduce avoidable trip hazards. Do not use damaged electrical equipment.
Do not connect a portable generator to building wiring through an improvised lead or outlet. If a generator is intended to supply a building electrical installation, the appropriate connection and changeover equipment should be installed by an appropriately licensed electrician in accordance with local requirements.
Common Generator & Inverter Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing from maximum or peak watts without checking the continuous rating.
- Ignoring the starting demand of compressors, motors or other appliances.
- Assuming pure sine wave automatically means every appliance is compatible.
- Treating a standalone inverter as though it creates or stores energy.
- Choosing a large 12V inverter without checking the battery's discharge capability.
- Using undersized battery cables, loose terminals or unsuitable circuit protection.
- Running a petrol generator in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space.
- Refuelling a hot generator contrary to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Assuming generators are permitted at every campground.
- Connecting solar panels without checking the power station's solar-input limits.
- Using damaged leads or leaving electrical connections exposed to water.
- Trying to feed building wiring through an improvised generator connection.
Complete Your Camp Power Setup
For the rest of the system, compare 12V Batteries & Chargers for storage and charging equipment, 12V Solar for solar charging options, or return to 12V Camping Power for the wider off-grid power range.
Product note: Output ratings, peak or surge capability, battery capacity, runtime, noise, fuel capacity, sockets, charging methods, solar-input limits, appliance compatibility, included accessories, protections, dimensions and weight vary by model. Check the individual product specifications before ordering or connecting equipment.
Safety note: Follow the generator, inverter, power-station, battery and appliance manufacturers' instructions. Operate petrol generators outdoors in a well-ventilated location, keep electrical equipment appropriately protected from water and damage, use suitably rated wiring and protection, and use an appropriately licensed electrician where fixed 240V wiring or a building connection is involved.
Guide reviewed: August 2026.