As a person that lost power last Friday and still does not have it I find having a generator very important. I use a portable generator like many others do. Mine only runs on gas, but a duel fuel is a good option, especially if you have natural gas. From my research most generators burn through propane pretty quick and I find it more convenient to fill up gas cans than propane tanks. For the electrical side I have a cost effective but still safe alternative to a full transfer switch. At my house we have an exterior mounted outlet for the generator. In the panel there is a breaker to back feed the panel with a lock out for the incoming utility power. It’s very simple and cost effective. I just turn off the main breaker which allows me to turn on the generator breaker. Then I can chose which circuits in that panel to power up.