Power station vs. Generator: Which is best for camping?

There are many opinions about camping power – and just as many solutions. That's why it can be difficult to choose between a power station and a generator.

Here's a quick and honest comparison: what they can do, what they can't do, and when one makes more sense than the other. The goal is for you to quickly make a choice that suits your trips, your equipment, and your budget.

What exactly is a power station?

A power station – also known as a power bank or mobile power supply – is essentially a giant battery packed into a handy box. It stores power that you can later use to charge your devices or power smaller appliances when you're far from the mains.

Modern power stations like Bluetti and Ecoflow have become incredibly popular among campers, and for good reason. They operate quietly, they are easy to transport, and you can charge them from home or combine them with a portable solar system to become completely self-sufficient.

Advantages of power stations for camping

Silence is worth its weight in gold
The biggest advantage of a power station is that it is completely silent. No humming engine noise waking up the neighbors at the campsite at 6 in the morning. You can use it inside your tent, caravan or car without worrying about dangerous exhaust fumes.

Easy operation
A power station requires no special knowledge. You press a button and the power is ready. No gas to pour, no draft to tear into, and no maintenance to worry about.

Flexible charging
You can charge your power station from home, in your car while driving, or combine it with solar panels to get free power from the sun. Many campers invest in a portable solar system, which makes them completely independent of external power sources.

Indoor use
Unlike generators, you can safely use a power station inside your vehicle or tent. No risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or other dangerous gases.

Disadvantages of power stations

Limited capacity
A power station cannot run forever. Depending on its size, it can provide power for anything from a few hours to several days, but then it needs to be recharged. If you need to power larger appliances like a refrigerator for a longer period of time, capacity can be a challenge (but here solar panels and other equipment can be used).

Higher purchase price
Power stations are generally more expensive to purchase than generators of equivalent output. A proper power station for camping can cost several thousand kroner.

Lower power for large appliances
Even the largest power stations have difficulty operating highly power-intensive devices such as heat pumps or large air conditioners for extended periods.

Generators - the classic solution

A camping generator is a gasoline or gas-powered engine that produces electricity. It has been the go-to solution for campers for decades, and there are good reasons for its popularity.

Advantages of generators for camping

High power and long operating time
A generator can produce continuous power as long as you have fuel. It can power virtually any appliance you need – from refrigerators to microwaves to space heaters.

Lower purchase price
Generators are typically cheaper to purchase than power stations of similar output. You can get a decent generator for camping for under 5,000 kroner.

Reliable power source
As long as you have fuel, you have power. No worries about charging or battery capacity.

Disadvantages of generators

Noise and odor
Generators are noisy. A lot. Most campgrounds have rules about when you can run your generator, typically only a few hours a day. They also produce exhaust fumes and smell like gasoline.

Maintenance
A generator requires regular maintenance. Oil changes, air filters, spark plugs – everything needs to be checked and replaced at regular intervals.

Fuel logistics
You should always carry petrol or gas with you and make sure to refuel. In remote areas, finding fuel can be a challenge.

Not for indoor use
Generators should NEVER be used indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. They should be placed outdoors with good ventilation.

Comparison: Power station vs Generator

Features	Power Station	Generator
Noise level	Silent	High noise level
Indoor use	Yes, definitely.	No, dangerous.
Maintenance	Minimal	Regular service
Fuel requirements	No (charging only)	Yes, continuously
Effect	300-4000W	1000-8000W+
Operating time	Limited to capacity	Unlimited fuel
Purchase price	Higher	Lower
Environmental impact	Low (especially with solar cells)	Higher (exhaust)

Which solution suits your camping style?

Choose a power station if:

• You camp at campsites with noise regulations
• You value silence and peace
• You mainly need to charge phones, tablets and laptops
• You will have the option of indoor use
• You can supplement with solar panels for self-sufficiency
• You prefer minimal maintenance

Choose a generator if:

• You are camping in remote areas without neighbors
• You need to operate larger appliances like refrigerators or space heaters
• You need continuous power for many hours at a time
• You have a tight budget.
• You don't mind maintenance and fuel handling

The optimal camping power solution

Many experienced campers actually end up having both. A power station for everyday use – charging devices, LED lighting and smaller appliances – combined with a generator as a backup for larger power needs or longer trips.

If you invest in a portable solar system, you can combine the best of both worlds: Quiet, clean power from the power station, charging via solar cells during the day, and the generator as a safety net on very long trips or during periods without sun.

Practical tips for camping power

For power station users:

• Invest in a solar panel
• Calculate your daily power consumption before purchasing
• Always charge at home before departure
• Have backup charging options (12V adapter for the car)

For generator users:

• Check the campsite's rules for generator use
• Always carry extra fuel
• Place the generator at least 3 meters from tents and caravans
• Service regularly to avoid breakdowns

The camping power of the future

Technology is evolving rapidly. Power stations are getting bigger, more efficient and cheaper, while generators are becoming more environmentally friendly and quieter. The combination of a power station with a portable solar system is already the most popular solution among serious campers.

Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to find a solution that matches your camping style and needs. A good camping power solution can be the difference between a stressful experience and the perfect outdoor vacation.

The optimal choice always depends on your specific needs, budget, and camping habits, but with the right planning, both power stations and generators can give you the freedom and comfort you seek on your camping adventures.