The freedom of caravanning across Australia comes with one significant challenge during the warmer months: keeping cool. Modern caravan air conditioners make summer travel comfortable, but they demand substantial power—power that isn't always available at free camps, national parks, or off-grid destinations.
Selecting the best portable generator for caravan air conditioning requires more than grabbing the first unit you see on the shelf. The wrong choice leaves you with an underpowered unit that struggles to start your air conditioner, or an oversized beast that's too heavy to lift and too loud for caravan parks.
This guide covers the essential factors, from understanding wattage requirements to evaluating features that matter most for Australian conditions. Whether you're planning weekend escapes or extended outback adventures, you'll find practical guidance to make a confident decision.
Understanding Your Caravan Air Conditioner Power Needs
Before comparing generator models, you need to know exactly how much power your setup requires. This single factor determines whether a generator will run your air conditioner reliably or fail at the first attempt.
Calculating Starting vs Running Watts
Every air conditioner has two power ratings that matter: starting watts and running watts. Running watts represent the continuous power draw once the unit is operating steadily—typically 1,200 to 1,800 watts for most caravan air conditioners.
Starting watts tell a different story. When your air conditioner's compressor kicks in, it demands a surge of power that can reach two to three times the running wattage. This surge lasts only seconds, but your generator must handle it or the unit won't start at all.
Think of it like pushing a heavy trolley: getting it moving requires significantly more effort than keeping it rolling. Your generator needs enough grunt for that initial push.
The practical approach is straightforward. Find your air conditioner's starting wattage (listed on the compliance plate or in the manual), then add a 20% buffer. If your air conditioner requires 3,000 starting watts, look for a generator rated at 3,500 watts or higher. This headroom ensures the generator isn't straining at maximum capacity every time the compressor cycles.
Sizing Your Generator for Other Onboard Electronics
Your air conditioner won't be the only appliance drawing power. Most caravanners run a fridge, charge devices, and occasionally use a microwave or kettle. These additional loads add up quickly.
Here's what typical caravan appliances require:
| Appliance | Starting Watts | Running Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Caravan Airconditioner | 1,200–1,800W | 2,500–3,500W |
| Compressor Fridge | 150–200W | 400–600W |
| Microwave | 800–1,200W | 1,000–1,500W |
| LED Lighting | 20–50W | 20–50W |
| Laptop Charger | 50–100W | 50–100W |
| Television | 80–150W | 80–150W |
Add together the running watts of everything you'll use simultaneously, then ensure your generator's rated (continuous) output exceeds this total. For the air conditioner's starting surge, you'll rely on the generator's maximum output rating.
A 3,500-watt generator like the Gentrax GT3500 generator typically provides enough capacity to run an air conditioner alongside a fridge, lighting, and device chargers without strain.
Here’s what one of our customers said:
“This is the second Gentrax we have bought. The first one is for myself and I purchased the second for my boss. Last summer we lost power for 4 days and it worked perfectly allowing us to use lights, fans and keeping two fridges going. I highly recommend having an electrician install a power point and change the switch in the power box. We were also able to supply our two elderly neighbours with an extension lead to keep their fridges working.”
Why Inverter Generators Are the Best Choice for Caravans
Not all generators suit caravanning equally. Conventional generators—the type you might see on construction sites—produce power that fluctuates with engine speed. They're loud, heavy, and potentially damaging to modern electronics.
Inverter generators like the Gentrax GTX4200 Pro work differently. They generate AC power, convert it to DC, then invert it back to AC in a clean, stable sine wave. This process delivers three advantages that matter for caravan owners.
Clean Power: The pure sine wave output matches the quality of mains electricity. Your laptop, smartphone, television, and air conditioner's electronic control board all operate safely without risk of damage or interference.
Quiet Operation: Inverter generators typically run at 55–60 decibels—roughly equivalent to normal conversation. Compare this to conventional generators that exceed 70 decibels, and you'll understand why caravan parks and national parks often require inverter technology. Many parks enforce noise restrictions, particularly during evening hours.
Fuel Efficiency: Because inverter generators adjust engine speed based on electrical load, they consume less fuel when demand drops. Running a fridge and a few lights doesn't require full throttle, so you'll stretch each tank further on lighter usage days.
Outbax stocks a range of inverter generators specifically suited to Australian caravanning conditions, where quiet operation and reliable performance under heat matter most.
Must-Have Features for a Caravan Generator: A Checklist
Beyond power output and inverter technology, several practical features influence day-to-day usability. Consider these factors before finalising your purchase.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
Most portable generators run on petrol, which is readily available across Australia. However, dual-fuel models that accept both petrol and LPG offer valuable flexibility for remote travel.
If you're heading to areas where petrol stations are sparse, the ability to switch to LPG—often available at roadhouses and caravan parks—provides backup peace of mind. Some caravanners already carry LPG for cooking, making dual-fuel generators a logical choice.
Tank capacity affects convenience, too. A generator with a 7–15 litre tank runs longer between refills. Check the expected run time at rated load to understand real-world performance.
Noise Level: Decibels Matter
Noise levels appear in specifications as decibels (dBA), usually measured at seven metres from the generator. Lower numbers mean quieter operation.
For context, a typical conversation sits around 60 dBA. The best inverter generators operate at 55–58 dBA, barely louder than background noise. Conventional generators often exceed 70 dBA—loud enough to disturb neighbours and breach park regulations.
If you frequent caravan parks or camp near others, prioritise generators rated below 60 dBA. Your fellow travellers will appreciate it.
Portability: Size and Weight
The word "portable" covers a wide range of weights. Some generators weigh 20–25 kilograms and lift easily into a vehicle. Others exceed 40 kilograms and require two people or a trolley to move.
Consider your physical capability, storage space, and vehicle's payload capacity. Features like built-in wheels, folding handles, and compact dimensions make heavier units more manageable.
Outbax carries portable generators across the weight spectrum, allowing you to balance power requirements against practical handling for your situation.
Comparing Popular Generator Models
Understanding specifications helps, but seeing how they translate to real products clarifies the decision. Here's how two common generator categories compare:
| Feature | Gentrax 3.5kW Inverter Generator | Compact 2.4kW Option |
|---|---|---|
| Max/Rated Watts | 3,500W / 3,000W | 2,400W / 2,100W |
| Technology | Pure sine wave inverter | Pure sine wave inverter |
| Noise Level | ~58 dBA @ 7m | ~55 dBA @ 7m |
| Weight | ~38 kg | ~22 kg |
| Best For | Most caravan aircons + multiple devices | Smaller air cons, maximum portability |
| Price Range | $800–$1,200 | $600–$900 |
The Gentrax 3.5kW handles most caravan air conditioners like the Cold King 12V Rooftop Air Conditioner comfortably while providing headroom for additional appliances. Its 3,500-watt maximum output manages the starting surge of larger units, and the 3,000-watt continuous rating supports sustained operation alongside a fridge, lighting, and device chargers.
For those prioritising lightweight handling—or running smaller rooftop units—compact generators around 2,400 watts offer an attractive balance. You'll sacrifice some capacity but gain significantly easier transport and storage.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing the best portable generator for caravan air conditioning comes down to three essential steps.
First, calculate your total power requirements. Identify your air conditioner's starting wattage, add the running watts of other appliances you'll use simultaneously, then apply a 20% buffer. This number determines your minimum generator capacity.
Second, prioritise inverter technology. The benefits you get, including clean power for electronics, quiet operation for shared spaces, and improved fuel efficiency, justify the investment for caravan use.
Third, match features to your travel style. If you venture to remote areas, dual-fuel capability adds security. If you move camps frequently, lighter weight matters more than maximum capacity. If you stay in caravan parks, noise level becomes paramount.
Ready to shop for portable generators? Browse Outbax's generator range armed with knowledge of the specifications you need for your adventure ride. We house quality outdoor power equipment backed by Australian support, ensuring your air conditioner runs reliably wherever the road takes you.
