Fuel Saving Tips

Today’s RVs are lighter weight and more fuel-efficient than ever. The latest Vacation Cost Comparison study by PKF Consulting shows that RV trips remain the most affordable way for a family to travel because of the significant savings on hotel and restaurant costs, even with fuel prices and the cost of ownership factored in.

Some compact motorhomes get similar gas mileage to larger SUVs. And many towable RVs are constructed of lighter weight materials making them towable by the family truck, SUV or minivan.

To maximize your savings, here are some tips that will help you conserve fuel while still enjoying all the fun, freedom and flexibility that RVing has to offer.

• Camp closer to home. With more than 16,000 campgrounds nationwide, RVers can enjoy the outdoor experience whether they travel five miles or 500 miles.
• Stay longer in one place. Many RV parks are vacation destinations in their own right, offering pools, playgrounds, hiking trails, entertainment centers, organized activities, convenience stores and so much more.
• Cook your family favorites in the convenience of an RV, to avoid the high costs of eating out.   
• Drive 55 instead of 65. Keeping speed constant and lower saves fuel, saving you money.
• Pack lighter by not topping off fresh water tanks until at the campground and by purchasing firewood and other camping materials on site to keep the RV lightweight while traveling. Be sure holding tanks are dumped before heading out to also help lighten the load.
• Tune up the engine of your motorhome or tow vehicle, inflate tires properly and conduct regular maintenance to maximize fuel efficiency.
• Use the grade of fuel recommended by the engine manufacturer to increase miles per gallon.
• In the summer months, travel later in the day when the weather is cooler and the vehicle air conditioning is needed less.  

Some other facts to keep in mind:

• Fuel is typically only the fourth largest expense on a road trip, behind lodging, food, vehicle payment and maintenance.
• Airfares and hotel rates also rise when fuel costs increase and fuel surcharges are added. You can avoid those costs in an RV.
• Fuel prices would need to more than triple from their current level to make RVing more expensive for a family of four than other forms of travel.
• Save on entertainment costs by bringing along your family’s favorite DVDs, games and sporting equipment.
• Discoveries made on RV trips will last a lifetime—as will the physical and mental health benefits. With a few simple adjustments for fuel price increases, RVing remains as affordable and as fun as ever.

“When I stop to fill up our motorhome, people often ask what kind of mileage it gets and my stock answer is, 'for a house, it gets great gas mileage - better than any other house I've ever driven.' If you want to take a great vacation with your family - all things considered - this is still the more affordable way to do it.”

- Brad Herzog, author and RVer, Monterey, CA