Hunt & Live

Q&A · Off-Grid

Best portable generators for tailgating events?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

For a great tailgating experience, consider portable generators with 100-200 watts capacity, like the Westinghouse iGen160s or the Honda EU22i, for running lights, coolers, and small appliances.

Choosing the Right Power

When selecting a portable generator for tailgating, consider the power requirements of your equipment. A general rule of thumb is to calculate the total wattage of your devices and add 10-20% for safety. For example, a 100-watt LED light and a 60-watt cooler would require a 160-180 watt generator to operate simultaneously.

Generator Sizing Guidelines

Here’s a rough guide to help you size your portable generator:

  • Small LED lights and phone chargers: 100-150 watts
  • Medium-sized coolers and small refrigerators: 150-250 watts
  • Large refrigerators and larger appliances: 250-400 watts
  • High-power equipment like grills and air conditioners: 400-1000 watts

Top Portable Generator Picks

Some top portable generators for tailgating events include:

  • Westinghouse iGen160s: 160 watts, 1.2 gallons fuel capacity, 7.5 hours runtime
  • Honda EU22i: 1600 watts, 0.9 gallons fuel capacity, 9.6 hours runtime
  • WEN 56203i: 1600 watts, 1 gallon fuel capacity, 8 hours runtime Consider your specific power needs and choose a generator that fits within your calculated wattage requirements. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for proper use and maintenance.
generator-portable-sizing portable generators tailgating events
Share

Find more answers

Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.