4 keys to saving money on gas in a camper van
This is the first installment in our How to van life series, focusing on practical tips for camper van owners.
Driving through the mountains is good for your soul. For your fuel budget, not so much. This scenic stretch of road is part of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway in Oregon.
Even if you’re new to camper vans, it’s probably not hard to guess that they’re not the most fuel efficient (or environmentally friendly) way to travel. But, there’s no need to despair.
It’s possible to reduce your fuel costs even in a large vehicle like a camper van. The four key things to keep in mind are: weight, speed, route and TLC.
Weight
This is something to think about before you even buy a camper van. Because a smaller, lighter van will burn through less gas than a braw lass like our Camper Van Beethoven.
She’s built on the largest Ram Promaster there is — the Promaster 3500 extended high roof, weighing in at more than 9,300 pounds.
If you’re serious about controlling fuel costs, consider a smaller option for your van life adventures.
Also consider whether you really need exterior accessories like a grill guard, ladder, running boards and flood lights. It’s true they look badass, but they also add weight to your van.
Loading up your van with all kinds of gear can increase its weight, decreasing your fuel efficiency. (But, camper van adventures aren’t nearly as fun without all your toys and friends.)
The weight of the vehicle isn’t the only thing to consider. Think about the weight of your gear, your supplies and, yes, your tanks.
It all adds up, so remember to:
Pack as light as you can
It’s great to take your bicycles, paddle boards, BBQ grill, camp chairs and more with you on a trip. But, if you won’t be using them that trip, leave them home.Keep your tanks empty
If you can, wait until you arrive at your destination to fill up your fresh water holding tank. If you’re worried about the taste of the water, we recommend these RV water filters (Amazon link). Simply attach one end to your water source and the other to your RV water hose.
And, don’t forgot about your used water and toilet holding tank. Empty these before doing any significant amount of driving.Shop close to your destination
The same goes for groceries and firewood. If you can, buy them closer to your destination.
Some campgrounds don’t allow firewood from outside the area anyway. That’s because insects can hitch a ride within the wood and end up in a place where they’re not native, wreaking havoc on the ecosystem, especially trees.
Driving at a steady speed on a non-congested freeway can help your camper van use less gas. This stretch of I-70 takes you past the Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis.
Speed
You’ve thought about your van and what’s in or on it. Now, it’s time to think about your driving habits.
This one might make you cringe: Try going the speed limit or even a little under.
Keeping a lower, steady speed on the freeway will help you save on gas.
Don’t be afraid to slow down, turn on the cruise control and enjoy some time in the far-right lane.
Yep, all the way over.
It’s a terrifying thought for some people, but it can help you save on gas money in your camper van. So long as you’re not constantly changing speeds to let people merge onto the freeway, that is. If you are, maybe give the middle lane a try.
Just remember to factor in some extra travel time for your trips. (And, pick a longer audiobook.)
Also take a slow approach to accelerating. Flooring it when the light turns green or as you’re getting on the freeway is a fuel efficiency killer.
Once you leave the pavement, you can expect your fuel efficiency to decrease. Your engine has to work harder, using more fuel, to move your camper van across rough surfaces.
Route
The route you take to your destination can also impact how much you spend on gas.
Drive up steep hills or on curvy roads where you constantly need to change speed, and you’ll spend more on gas. Because your engine works harder going uphill or accelerarting.
It’s something to keep in mind when you take the scenic route or drive through the mountains.
Not that the freeway is always better. Your fuel efficiency also takes a beating when you’re idling while stuck in traffic.
Off-roading is another way to send your fuel costs through the roof. Your camper van simply runs more efficiently on a smooth, flat surface.
This is all helpful to know as you plan your next road trip. Maximizing your freeway time could be your best bet for spending less on gas in your camper van. Being able to maintain a steady speed is when your fuel efficiency soars.
TLC
Finally, give your camper van the tender loving care (TLC) it needs to stay efficient (and safe) on the road.
Check your tire pressure before any long drive, get them rotated and aligned regularly and keep up with other recommended maintenance.
A well-maintained vehicle with proper tire inflation should be more fuel efficient, saving you money on gas each time you travel in your camper van. Not to mention, you might also save money on major repairs or early tire replacement that can come from neglect.
Use a spreadsheet to help you track maintenance if you need to. Choose an online version, such as Google Sheets, that you can access from anywhere. You can even use it to track your gas mileage, if your van doesn’t do it for you.
If you see a dip in your gas mileage, it could be a sign it’s time for some TLC.
Freeway or highway driving can help lower your gas costs while still being quite scenic. So long as you’re able to maintain a constant speed and avoid large inclines.
Of course, there are also ways to save on gas at the actual pump. Consider joining the rewards program of a gas station chain or two — this might be an app, a credit card or a debit-type card linked to your checking account. You can also typically get more for your money by pumping gas at a slower speed.
One final tip: Take a local trip if you want to spend less on gas in your camper van. Your state may not be home to Olympic National Park or Arches National Park, but I promise there are things worth seeing everywhere. You just have to go look.
By picking the right van and taking care of it, plus packing and driving smart, you can save money on gas in a camper van.
That’s not to say your stops at the pump will be cheap. You’re still driving a gas guzzler with a large tank at the end of the day. But, you might just find yourself filling up a little less frequently.
Stay tuned for more installments in our How to van life blog series.