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Quick Answer
Most travel trailers do not come factory-equipped with a generator. Instead, owners power their rigs using one of several options — an onboard genset, a portable inverter generator, or a battery + solar hybrid system — depending on how they use the trailer and their power needs.
Why Some Travel Trailers Include Generators — Market & Demand Snapshot
Over the past few years, demand for power solutions in recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers has surged, driven by rising outdoor recreation, remote working, and a growing “off-grid life” movement. The global market for RV generators alone was estimated at around USD 1.50 billion in 2026 and is projected to grow significantly toward 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of roughly 8.2%.
In parallel, the broader camping and portable-power market is also expanding. A recent report projects the global camping generator market to reach around USD 1.43 billion by the mid-2030s, with a steady CAGR of about 6.3%.
These trends are reinforced by booming sales of travel trailers themselves: the overall travel trailer and camper market was estimated at over USD 105.8 billion in 2025, and is forecast to grow further by about 7–9% per year as RV ownership, camping culture, and demand for flexible, mobile living increase.
Because many trailer buyers plan to use their units off-grid — away from campsite hookups — having a reliable power source becomes important. That’s why some travel trailers are offered with generator-prep packages, optional onboard gensets, or are designed to accommodate portable/solar setups.
Types of Generator Options for Travel Trailers
When exploring travel trailers with generators, owners typically consider one of several generator/power configurations. Understanding these helps decide what fits best for your needs.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Onboard genset | A permanent, built-in generator (usually gasoline or diesel), installed in a dedicated compartment in the trailer. Offers continuous AC power — useful for air conditioning, large appliances, or full-time usage. |
| Portable inverter generator | External, compact, and more flexible than onboard units. Often lighter, quieter, and easier to maintain — suitable for weekend camping or occasional off-grid use. |
| Battery + solar (hybrid) | Uses lithium (or similar) battery storage plus solar panels. Ideal for low-to-moderate power needs, silent operation, zero fuel emissions — good for “greener” camping, lighting, electronics. |
| Hybrid solutions | Combines two or more of the above (e.g., portable generator + solar battery backup, or onboard genset + solar assist) to balance convenience, runtime, and sustainability. |
Each option has tradeoffs: onboard genset = convenience & power, but heavier & fuel-dependent; portable generator = flexible but may produce noise; battery/solar = eco-friendly & silent, but limited power for high-draw appliances.
How to Choose the Right Generator: Step-by-Step Guide
If you own (or plan to buy) a travel trailer and wonder how to pick the right generator, here is a logical selection process:
List your electrical needs
List all appliances and devices you intend to use (AC, fridge, microwave, lights, charging, fan, heater, etc.).
Note both startup (surge) wattage and running wattage — e.g., an air conditioner may need high surge power at startup.
Select generator type by usage scenario
If you frequently camp off-grid or need to run AC / heavy appliances → consider onboard genset or a high-wattage portable inverter.
For occasional camping, low-power needs, and quiet operation → portable inverter or battery + solar works well.
For eco-conscious campers or those near nature → battery + solar hybrid is ideal.
Check weight, storage space, and fuel type
Carried weight and available storage in the trailer matter — heavy gensets may impact towing and balance.
Fuel options (gasoline, diesel, propane) and fuel availability on the road; also maintenance requirements (oil changes, ventilation).
Consider noise and emissions
Many campgrounds impose noise restrictions — quieter inverter generators or solar/battery systems are often preferred.
Emissions may matter especially in “green” campgrounds or areas with environmental regulations.
Power integration and wiring
Ensure your trailer’s electrical system can integrate the generator (inlet plugs, transfer switches, breakers, shore-power compatibility).
Consider whether you’ll use the generator as primary power or backup; plan wiring accordingly.
Maintenance, reliability, and safety
Access to maintenance (fuel lines, air filters, exhaust, grounding) — onboard gensets require secure, ventilated compartments.
Fuel storage safety, exhaust routing, and ventilation must follow safety norms.
As a rough rule of thumb: many “basic need” travel trailers with fridge, lights, charging — 2,000–3,500 W continuous output may suffice; trailers with AC or multiple appliances may need 4,000 W or more.
Installation & Safety Checklist for Travel Trailer Generators
If you decide to install a generator (onboard or portable), make sure to follow a systematic checklist to ensure safety and code compliance:
Pre-install planning: review the trailer’s electrical diagram, choose proper generator inlet, shore-power transfer switch or breaker box.
Physical installation: for onboard genset — install in a ventilated, insulated compartment; for portable generator — place on a stable, well-ventilated platform at safe distance from living areas.
Electrical connection: use correct RV-rated plugs/cables, ensure proper grounding, verify whether shore-power or generator-power is active (no backfeed).
Fuel & exhaust safety: route exhaust safely, away from windows/doors; store fuel in proper containers; inspect fuel lines and hoses regularly.
Grounding & surge protection: ensure proper grounding, install surge protector or circuit breaker; use carbon monoxide (CO) detectors if generator runs near enclosed spaces.
Comply with local regulations/campground rules: many campsites restrict generator run-times, noise levels, and fuel storage — always check before running.
Real-World Data & Market Trends for Travel Trailers With Generators
The portable inverter generator submarket is one of the fastest-growing segments. Drivers include demand for quieter, fuel-efficient, eco-conscious power solutions — matching shifts toward off-grid camping, “boondocking,” and sustainability.
As more consumers value sustainability and low-impact camping, battery + solar hybrid power solutions are rising in popularity. This aligns with broader outdoor gear trends toward renewable energy and lighter, greener camping setups.
These data points illustrate that while not all trailers come with generators, there’s significant and growing demand for generator-equipped or generator-ready travel trailers — especially among off-grid and eco-aware travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do travel trailers normally come with a generator included?
Not usually. Most travel trailers are sold without a built-in generator. Buyers who want reliable off-grid power must either choose aftermarket onboard genset installation or pair the trailer with a portable generator or solar-battery system.
Is an onboard genset better than a portable generator?
It depends on usage: onboard gensets offer convenience and continuous power — ideal for full-time travel or frequent off-grid camping. Portable generators offer flexibility, lower cost, and easier maintenance — often better for occasional trips.
What size generator do I need for my travel trailer?
Calculate your power needs: for basic lighting, fridge, and charging — 2,000–3,500 W may be enough. For air conditioning or multiple appliances, you may need 4,000 W or more. Always consider startup (surge) wattage, not just continuous load.
Can battery + solar power replace a generator entirely?
For low-power usage (lights, charging phones, small appliances), yes — battery + solar can be sufficient. But for heavier loads like AC, microwave, or full-time off-grid living, generators (onboard or portable) or larger battery banks are usually required.
Are there noise and campground restrictions when using generators?
Yes. Many campgrounds restrict generator runtime or require “quiet hours.” Quiet inverter generators or solar/battery systems are often preferred to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Is installing a generator dangerous or complicated?
It can be if done incorrectly. Proper installation requires correct wiring, ventilation, fuel handling, exhaust routing, grounding, and compliance with safety regulations. A well-installed system is safe — but skip shortcuts.
Summary & Call to Action
As “off-grid travel” and remote camping become increasingly popular, more travelers ask themselves: do they need a generator with their travel trailer — and if yes, what kind? Understanding the differences between onboard gensets, portable inverter generators, and battery + solar solutions helps you choose based on power needs, use frequency, noise tolerance, and sustainability goals.
If you’re evaluating your trailer purchase or planning upgrades, use this guide as your starting checklist. Meanwhile, if you want to dive deeper, check out our blog post at https://www.infanta.net/blog.