I too, am relatively new to rving, we only use a generator enroute also, so we went to tractor supply, got a champion 3500 watt generator for about$300.00 it might be a shade loud, but in a rest area it isn't noticed. we use air and tv. and microwave. it uses 2.5 gallons of gas for about 11 hrs. then we go to a full hookup campground the next day. I would use it anytime though and if it ever gave me trouble, I would loosen 4 bolts and give it away and go to tractor supply and get another one. we are happy with ours. it is on a rack on the back of the fiver.