Generator or solar? It's one of the biggest decisions RVers face when going off-grid. Both have loyal fans and vocal critics. This guide compares costs, convenience, and real-world performance to help you decide which power source fits your RV lifestyle.

Quick Comparison Overview

RV Generators: The Details

Types of RV Generators

1. Built-In Generators (Common in Class A/C)

• Mounted in compartment, runs on RV fuel tank
• 3,000-8,000 watts
• Push-button start from inside
• Cost: Included with many Class A/C motorhomes

2. Portable Generators

• Stored in cargo area, set up outside when needed
• 2,000-4,000 watts typical
• Honda EU2200i: $1,200 (quietest option)
• Champion 3400: $700 (budget pick)

3. Inverter Generators (Quietest)

• Runs quieter than traditional generators (53-60 dB)
• Fuel-efficient (adjusts speed based on load)
• Cost: $600-1,500

Generator Pros

• Reliable power on demand: Works day or night, rain or shine
• Lower upfront cost: $600-3,000 vs. $5,000+ for solar
• Run high-draw appliances: AC, microwave, electric heater simultaneously
• Proven technology: Easy to find parts and service

Generator Cons

• Noise: Even "quiet" generators annoy neighbors (and you)
• Fuel costs: $5-15/day depending on runtime
• Maintenance: Oil changes every 50-100 hours, spark plugs, air filters
• Campground restrictions: Many limit generator hours (e.g., 8am-8pm only)
• Storage and weight: Takes up space, adds 100-400 lbs

Solar Power: The Details

Typical Solar System Components

• Solar panels: 200-800W typical ($400-1,200)
• Charge controller: MPPT recommended ($200-600)
• Battery bank: 200-400Ah lithium ($1,500-4,000)
• Inverter: 2000-3000W ($400-1,200)
• Total system: $2,500-7,000+

Solar Pros

• Silent operation: No noise pollution
• Free energy: No fuel costs after installation
• Low maintenance: Clean panels occasionally, that's it
• Environmentally friendly: Zero emissions
• Set it and forget it: Charges automatically every sunny day
• No campground restrictions: Use anywhere, anytime

Solar Cons

• High upfront cost: $2,500-10,000 for a complete system
• Weather dependent: Cloudy days = weak charging
• Limited power in winter: Short days + low sun angle
• Battery capacity limits: Can run out of power overnight if battery is small
• Not ideal for heavy AC use: Drains batteries quickly

Cost Breakdown: 5-Year Ownership

Generator (Honda EU2200i)

• Purchase: $1,200
• Fuel (3 hours/day @ $10/day): $18,250
• Maintenance (oil, filters): $500
• 5-Year Total: $19,950

Solar (400W System)

• Purchase & Installation: $3,500
• Fuel: $0
• Maintenance: $100 (cleaning supplies)
• 5-Year Total: $3,600

Winner: Solar breaks even in Year 1-2 if you use a generator regularly.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a Generator If:

• You RV only a few weekends per year (low usage)
• You camp at hookup sites 80%+ of the time
• You need AC power in a pinch but rarely boondock
• Upfront budget is tight (under $1,500)
• You're in a climate with frequent clouds/rain

Choose Solar If:

• You boondock frequently (50%+ of trips)
• You're a full-timer avoiding campground fees
• You hate generator noise (and so do your neighbors)
• You can afford the $3,000-7,000 upfront investment
• You camp in sunny climates (Southwest, California)

The Hybrid Approach (Best of Both Worlds)

Many experienced RVers use both:

• Solar handles daily power needs (lights, phones, fridge)
• Generator as backup for cloudy weeks or running AC in extreme heat
• Smaller solar system (200-400W) + portable generator = flexibility

Real-World Scenarios

Weekend Warrior (RV used 10 times/year)

Recommendation: Portable inverter generator

Solar doesn't make financial sense for occasional use. A Honda EU2200i ($1,200) will last years with minimal runtime.

Full-Time Boondocker

Recommendation: 600W+ solar + lithium batteries

You'll recoup costs in 12-18 months through campground savings and no fuel expenses. Add a small backup generator for emergencies.

Snowbird (Traveling 6 months/year)

Recommendation: 400W solar + 2000W generator

Solar handles daily needs. Generator runs AC during summer extremes. Best flexibility for mixed camping styles.

Conclusion

There's no universal "right answer." Your decision depends on camping frequency, budget, noise tolerance, and climate.

For most frequent RVers, solar is the long-term winner. But generators still have a place for backup power and occasional campers.

Consider starting with a generator, then adding solar as your usage and budget allow. You can always upgrade—and many RVers do.