Camping used to be about getting into the open outdoors and leaving all the mod cons behind for a few days of getting back to nature. Nowadays, many of us appreciate the best of both worlds, camping or caravaning or even glamping in scenic areas away from the humdrum of day-to-day life, but with the option to check your emails, watch a TV show at night or even boil a kettle.
If you are heading to a campsite without mains power on your plot, you may be worried about how things like keeping your phone charged, cooking a hot meal, or powering up your camper van essentials are possible, it may even put some campers off! But this is where portable generators come in, the modern solution to meeting your camping power demands without giving up comfort or convenience. But can portable generators be used on campsites?
The answer is yes, but there are a few essential things to remember to ensure your camping experience is safe, quiet, and compliant with the rules.
Know the Rules: Campsite Generator Regulations
Although portable generators might be a great addition to your camping experience, there are a few reasons that their operation will be limited or not allowed at all on some campsites. The main reason is noise; even the quietest of generators will possess the potential to break the serenity of a peaceful site, especially during nighttime hours. Cheaper generators usually make more noise, and many campsites permit their use at the site manager’s discretion.
Electrical safety is another concern. Economy models may produce electricity with voltage spikes that have the potential to damage sensitive electronics in motorhomes or caravans. While letting the generator warm up before making a connection can occasionally be beneficial, it is far better to use a high-quality inverter generator that provides clean and consistent power.
Equally important is safety. Generators produce carbon monoxide and should continuously be operated outdoors in a well-ventilated space, ideally positioned downwind and away from fellow campers. Accurate positioning is key to preventing exhaust fumes from entering tents or awnings and reducing the fire risk from hot exhausts in contact with flammable materials like long grass. Generators must also be sheltered from rain and stored securely out of children’s and pets reach. While generators can make a massive difference to your camping experience, it is essential to use them wisely, ensuring safety, courtesy, and site rule compliance.
Not every campsite allows generator use; among those that do, there are usually some limitations. They may be:
- Permitted working hours (normally daytime only)
- Specific areas for generator use
- Maximum permissible noise levels
It is advisable to speak with the campsite owner before your departure. Some sites are incredibly conscientious about preserving quiet, so even the least obtrusive generator might be undesirable at some locations.
Want to know more about UK generator noise laws? Check out our guide: Generator Noise Laws in the UK
Noise Matters: Choose a Quiet Generator
Noise is one of the biggest concerns when using generators at campsites. Fortunately, many portable generators are now designed with low-noise technology, making them ideal for off-grid stays.
To ensure a smooth experience, choose a model that’s:
- Specifically designed for camping or leisure use
- Rated below 60-65 decibels
- Equipped with eco-mode or inverter technology for quieter operation
Match Your Generator to Your Power Demands
A good camping setup means balancing comfort with practicality. Think about what you really need to power: is it just a phone and a few lights, or something more demanding like a kettle, fridge, or electric heater?
When selecting a camping generator, consider:
- The total wattage of the appliances you plan to use
- Runtime requirements (e.g. overnight power vs. occasional use)
- Fuel type and efficiency
Not sure how to assess your setup? Learn more about how to test a portable generator before your trip.
Go Portable, Go Prepared
Portable generators provide campers with a versatile and dependable power supply, whether camping in a really remote and rural area or at a less accessible location with minimal power availability.
With the increased popularity of van life, glamping, and eco-tourism, generating your own off-grid power allows you to control your camping trip.
Operating a generator in a campground is fine if the rules allow and can contribute significantly to your outdoor adventure, so long as you are ready. Select a quiet, high-efficiency unit, follow camp rules, and ensure your installation is safe. With the proper gear in place, you can have the best of both worlds: nature and the comforts of home.
Still have questions? Our Vital Power team is here to help you choose the ideal portable power solution for your next adventure. Speak to our Team.
Anna Eyre
Digital Marketing Lead
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