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MattGlamperGear
Author: Matt JohnsonPhotos/Graphics: Mike HawthorneUpdated: February 17, 2023

It’s a question that has plagued campers for years – can you run a generator while sleeping? The answer, as many of you may have guessed, is yes. Many campers do.

Now, you have to take some precautions. You can’t just let the generator run all night without any monitoring. That’s a recipe for disaster. But if you take some basic steps, you can rest easy knowing that your generator is running safely while you sleep.

Generators can be a great way to provide power while camping. 

There’s nothing quite like being in the great outdoors, surrounded by nature. But if you’re planning to camp for more than a few days, you’ll need to find a way to power your electronics.

That’s where generators come in.

A generator can provide enough power to run a small fridge, charge your phone, and even run a TV. After all, you might want some entertainment in your RV or camper after a long day of hiking. And of course, the size of generator you have will play a role.

By choosing a portable generator, you can take it with you wherever you go. So whether you’re camping in the woods or tailgating at a football game, a generator can help you enjoy home’s comforts.

They can be used to power appliances and chargers while enjoying the great outdoors.

Camping is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, austere conditions can often make it difficult to get reliable power. This is where generators come in handy.

Remember, we’re all about glamping. We love adventure, comfort, and style.

Using a generator, you can power appliances and chargers while enjoying the great outdoors.

Generators come in various sizes and wattages, so choosing one appropriate for your needs is essential. For example, if you plan on powering a small camper, you’ll need a different generator than if you were powering a large RV. Some generators can also run multiple appliances simultaneously, making them ideal for large families or groups.

No matter what your needs, there is sure to be a generator that is perfect for you.

So what do most campers power with a generator? We reached out to some members of a glamping Facebook group, and here’s what they said:

  • Small fridge. We need to keep the beer ice cold, after all.
  • Chargers for phones and other electronics. How could you keep up with the world if you don’t have social media? Better yet, maybe you should disconnect.
  • TV. You don’t want to miss the big game while in the woods.
  • Lights. This is a no-brainer. Most lights are LEDs that can run for quite a while with little power.
  • AC units and fans. If you’re camping in the heat of the summer, an AC unit can make all the difference in the world.
  • Coffee maker. We couldn’t live without our coffee, and we know you can’t either.

These are just a few top items campers power with generators.

Of course, you’ll need to remember how much power each appliance uses when choosing a generator.

Safety first! Here are some essential things to keep in mind when using a generator.

When dealing with serious voltage/amperage, it’s important to take some safety precautions.

  • Never use a generator indoors. First and foremost, generators can produce harmful carbon monoxide fumes. Keep your generator outdoors and away from any windows or doors. Set it up near some bushes or trees to help disperse the fumes. 
  • Always keep the generator dry. If it gets wet, the risk of electrocution goes up significantly. Also, keep children and pets away from the generator as they can easily be injured.
  • Be sure to read the owner’s manual before operating the generator. This might seem a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t bother reading the manual. Not only will this help you understand how to operate the generator properly, but it will also help you troubleshoot any problems that might arise.
  • Don’t overload the generator. When choosing a generator, choose one that can handle the wattage you need. Trying to run too many appliances on a generator can damage the generator and the device.

By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of using a generator without putting yourself at risk.

So can you run a generator while sleeping?

Now that we discussed generators a bit more and you’re familiar with some safety concerns, you can make your own decision.

Generally, running a generator while sleeping is relatively safe as long as you take the appropriate safety precautions. Just be sure to choose a generator that is appropriate for your needs and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Generators typically run between 8 and 10 hours on a full gas tank, so you can easily run one overnight.

Some people like to take safety to the next level by turning off their generators at night. After all, you probably use less power at night, so you don’t need as much generator power. You’ll also save fuel by doing this as well.


There you have it! Now you know everything you need to know about can you run a generator while sleeping. So get out there and enjoy the great outdoors. Just be sure to stay safe!

MattGlamperGear

Matt Johnson


Senior Content Writer

Matt is an experienced camper and glamping enthusiast with a Master's degree in Wildlife Science from Texas A&M University. Authoring posts for GlamperGear, he shares his wealth of knowledge on picturesque campsites, luxurious accommodations, and the best gear for outdoor adventures. His passion for nature and knack for comfort in the wilderness make him an expert guide for your next camping endeavor.

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