Battery Novice, Please Help

This is one of the few YT Channels on How to's I recommend to anyone learning. He does break it down pretty well. I often watch his reviews of products and builds. Take a look at his playlist of subjects (linked).

The first question should be what do you want to be able to run on the generator? The second is what weight are you comfortable with lifting and carrying? The third is what fuel source do you prefer, gasoline or propane? With those answers we can probably guide you in a good direction.

Note on question number one, if you want to run the a/c overnight most campgrounds restrict generator operation to daytime and early evening hours. so if that is your planned use case you might not be able to achieve it.

A couple other considerations.

The inverter generators are quieter at low power levels but not especially so at high output line when running the a/c.

A generator around 2 to 2.5kw, sometimes even larger, is likely not going to be able to start the a/c compressor reliably, but can run it once started. Adding an Easystart soft start will allow these smaller generators to start it. That is an interesting combination if weight is an issue for you. You can’t run the a/c and microwave simultaneously with generators in that size but that’s not really a big deal, just turn one off while running the other.

Propane burns clean so there is less maintenance with it and does not require you to carry gasoline. You are already carrying propane anyway. OTOH there are less available options with propane generators.

Yes a 2021 179 with solar panel

I take it you have a newer Pod with inverter.  IQ 3500 is more than adequate to run Pod.  It is an Inverter Generator and will have no effect on the operation of the inverter in Pod.  Not an issue, it's a power source.

I have used a Generac IX2000 for 5 years.  Very reliable.  It will charge battery, run microwave but not with AC, and has run AC with Converter off.  It meets my basic needs.  When not using AC, it will run entire trailer.  It is lightweight, relatively easy to lift and handle.  If you plan to boondock you'll need more.  it really is about your specific needs.  Your plan.