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We went from rarely using our Onan in Class C to not having a generator at all for next 10 years because we stayed in campgrounds with full hookups. Then about 4 or 5 years ago we started boondocking on football weekends and had to get a portable generator to power air conditioner at night. As soon as weather cools later in the fall I leave generator at home. For us the hassle isn’t worth it unless absolutely necessary to have it.
I have mixed thoughts about having a generator at all. I would prefer sleeping at night powering small air conditioner from batteries when it’s too hot; however, unless motorhome can charge batteries extremely fast, a small generator to power A/C for extended periods would be nice to have as a backup. The generator would have to be a built-in taking fuel from vehicle tank though. I absolutely do not want to rely on portable generators and having to haul fuel for it. An Onan 2800i which can easily power an A/C with capacity to spare would be my choice if I was building a van camper and decided that lithium batteries alone wasn’t cost effective.
It’s presently a tough choice, but as lithium batteries get cheaper and engine-driven alternators get more powerful, the decision is made easier for us. And for what it’s worth, more efficient air conditioners also plays a major role because A/C is the primary reason most newer RVs need an Onan-style generator at all.
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