RV Learning

How to Use a Generator with a Bowlus

Q: What type of generator does Bowlus recommend?

We recommend a small, quiet, and lightweight unit like the Honda 2200-watt generator . Because the Bowlus is highly efficient, you do not need the massive, heavy 30-amp generators required by most traditional RVs. The Honda 2200 is easy to carry, space-efficient, and powerful enough for Bowlus systems.

Thinking of using a generator with your Bowlus?

In this video, we walk you through how to properly set up and operate the Honda 2200 with your Bowlus travel trailer. Learn everything you need to know to extend your off-grid adventures without sacrificing luxury or peace of mind.

Generator: https://www.amazon.com/shop/bowlusluxuryrvs

FAQs

First and foremost, the Bowlus is engineered for off-grid travel using its internal lithium iron phosphate batteries and signature power management system. In most scenarios, you will not need a generator. You should only consider using one in unique circumstances where battery power needs a significant supplement.

A generator is a helpful backup in the following situations:
Extended Off-Grid Stays: When you are camping for a long period without any solar absorption (such as during consistently stormy or overcast weather).
Continuous Air Conditioning: If you are in an extremely hot climate and need to run the A/C continuously for multiple days.
Rapid Recharging: If you have been off-grid for a very long time and want to quickly charge the battery bank after running large appliances.

We recommend a small, quiet, and lightweight unit like the Honda 2200-watt generator. Because the Bowlus is highly efficient, you do not need the massive, heavy 30-amp generators required by most traditional RVs. The Honda 2200 is easy to carry, space-efficient, and powerful enough for Bowlus systems.

Unlike most RVs that require high-amperage inputs, all Bowlus appliances can run off a standard 15-amp household outlet. To connect:
Plug your 30-amp shore power cord into the side of the Bowlus.
Use a 15-to-30 amp adapter (a standard “pigtail” adapter) on the other end of the cord.
Plug that 15-amp end directly into the standard household outlet on the generator.
Ensure the generator is located outside in a well-ventilated area before starting.

Yes. Because the Bowlus can operate on a 15-amp circuit, the connection process for a generator is exactly the same as plugging your Bowlus into a simple outlet at a friend’s house or a garage.

Video Transcript

Hi, I’m Geneva Long, CEO of Bowlus, and today we’re talking about how to use a generator with your Bowlus. Now, first of all, I need to mention that the Bowlus is built for off-grid travel, and so that means where you’re not connected to shore power. So, the only time that you’re using a generator is in very unique circumstances, but I’ll get to that in a second. Every Bowlus comes equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries and the signature Bowlus Power Management System.

So, when are you using a generator? Think if you’re going to be off-grid for extended periods of time and don’t have any solar absorption—so maybe you have consistently stormy weather, or you’re going to be camping in very hot climates with the air conditioner running continuously for multiple days. In those circumstances, you’re going to want to find a generator that works well with the Bowlus, and our recommendation is the Honda 2200-watt. It’s quiet, it’s lightweight—so I can even carry it myself—and it doesn’t take up a lot of space. All of these things are important when selecting a generator, and I’ll show you how to connect that to your Bowlus in a second.

Now, this is different from most RVs. With most RVs, you need a really big generator, usually something that can take 30 amps, and that’s because all of your appliances require that to operate. Now, with a Bowlus, because all of the appliances can be run off 15-amp—which is just a regular household outlet—you can plug into a smaller generator like the one I’m about to demonstrate. And so again, the generator is great for stormy weather, extended air conditioning over multiple days running that continuously, or charging up your battery after you’ve been off-grid for a really long time running all of those large appliances.

Let me turn this camera around and show you how it looks. So, I’m over here by the shore power plug, and here is where you would plug the shore power cord into your Bowlus if you’re going to be running a generator. So, I’ve got that shore power plug, and then I have it over into that Honda 2200-watt generator which I have over here. Now, I’m not going to turn this on because, of course, we’re inside and this is just a demo, but I’m going to show you what it looks like here.

We have the Honda 2200-watt generator. We’ve got the other side of the 30-amp cord, which you can see right there, and then we also have the 15-to-30-amp adapter. And so that’s just a normal household outlet as you can see—and you can see it right there too, just a normal household outlet. And so that’s plugging into there, and then you’re plugging your shore power in, and then you’re turning on your generator (of course, when you’re outside). That would be exactly the same plug that I would use as if I was just plugging into a simple outlet, actually, like the one right next to us over here.

So, that sums up how to use a generator with a Bowlus. Again, you’re only using this in really rare and unique circumstances; otherwise, you’re enjoying off-grid adventure. Let us know if you have any other questions in the comments!

Geneva Long

Founder & CEO

Geneva Long has redefined the RV landscape since 2011, establishing the ultra-luxury travel trailer category. Drawing from her passion for adventure, she leads with a vision for user-centric design. Geneva ensures that every Bowlus delivers supreme comfort and innovative performance, built with a level of craftsmanship designed to last for generations.