If you’re like most people, you’re looking for ways to save money on gas during your next road trip. Gas prices are high and seem to be going up all the time. However, there is no need to worry!
There are plenty of ways to save money on gas when traveling by RV. This blog post introduces some of the best tips and tricks for saving money on gas while RVing. (psst – Still shopping for an RV? Check out this blog post)
So, pack your bags, start your engine, and let’s get started!
Plan Your RV Fill Up
Fill Up Your RV Tank When It’s Half-Full
One of the best ways to save money on gas when traveling by RV is to fill up your tank when it’s half full. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many travelers wait until their vehicle is almost out of gas before filling up.
This costs you more money in the long run, but it can also be dangerous. If you’re ever in an emergency and need to get somewhere fast, you don’t want to worry about running out of gas. So, ensure you fill up your gas tank before it gets too low!
Fill Up Your RV At the Cheapest Gas Stations in The Area
Another smart way to save money on gas when traveling by RV is to fill up your tank at the cheapest gas stations in the area. This may seem like a hassle, but it’s not that difficult. Just do a little research before you hit the road.
Many websites and apps can help you find the cheapest gas prices in any given area. Once you know where the cheap gas stations are, plan your route accordingly. This will ensure that you don’t waste time or money driving out of your way to add gas to your tank.
Google Maps will show you a list of gas stations in your area with their current gas prices. You can filter the results by price, distance, and ratings, which can be helpful when looking for the best deal on gas.
Other apps for gas prices are:
Don’t Forget About Discounts
If you’re a AAA member, there’s a good chance you can get a discount on gas when you travel by RV. The same goes for other membership organizations like Sam’s Club or Costco. Be sure to ask about gas discounts when signing up for memberships or renewing your existing ones.
Use the Correct Type of Fuel
Not all RVs can use unleaded gasoline. If your RV has a diesel engine, you’ll want to ensure you’re using diesel fuel. Some RVs can run on either type of fuel, but it’s essential to check your owner’s manual to be sure. Running the wrong fuel in your RV can damage the engine and void your warranty.
Fill Up at Truck Stops to Save Money
Truck stops are great for filling up your RV’s gas tank because they usually have lower prices than regular gas stations and plenty of space for navigating to the pumps. Other places that offer discounts on gas include Sam’s Club, Costco, and Camping World. Be sure to ask about gas discounts when signing up for these club memberships or renewing your existing ones.
Monitor Your Fuel Economy
One easy way to monitor your fuel economy is by keeping track of the miles you travel per gallon. You can also try some of these other tips:
Use a fuel additive: Fuel additives can help improve your RV’s gas mileage by up to five percent.
Slow down: Driving at higher speeds uses more gas. Try to keep your speed below 60 mph whenever possible.
Limit idling: Idling uses a lot of gas, so try to avoid it as much as possible. If you’re going to be stopped with an idle engine for more than a minute or two, shut off the engine.
Avoid using air conditioning: Air conditioning puts extra strain on your RV’s engine and uses more gas. Instead, open the windows and use car fans to stay cool.
Use A Gas Rewards Card
You can get gas reward cards from most major gas stations. These cards give you points or cashback for every gallon of gas you purchase.
Earn Cashback on Every Fill-Up Plus Other Purchases
If you’re looking for a way to save money on gas while traveling, consider getting a cashback rewards card. With a little bit of planning, you can easily earn enough cashback to cover the cost of your gas. And you’ll enjoy the other benefits that come with these cards. When it comes to gas rewards cards, there are many options to choose from, and NerdWallet keeps a good list of the available options.
Cashback rewards cards give you a percentage of your total purchase price back in cash or as a reduction to your next purchase. This can be a great way to save money on gas when traveling by RV, and you can use the cash rewards to cover some expenses you incur while on the road.
Plus, cash-back rewards cards come with some other benefits. They often have low introductory rates and no annual fees.
Look For Discounts to Save Money on Gas
Many gas stations and brands offer loyalty programs or reduced prices for customers who buy a certain amount of fuel.
You can often find coupons for a specific amount off your purchase or a certain percentage off per gallon.
Plan Your Route to Save Time And Money
When possible, take the most direct way to your destination. If you’re not sure where you’re going, ask a local for clear directions. Map out your route and consider things like elevation changes and windy roads. The less time you spend driving, the less gas you’ll use.
Upgrade Your Tires
If you are doing a lot of driving, consider upgrading your RV’s tires to more fuel-efficient ones. You can also save gas by slowing down and driving the speed limit.
GPS System
Use a GPS system designed for RVs to help plan your route and find campgrounds, attractions, and services specific to RVs
One example of a GPS system designed specifically for RVs is the RV GPS by Rand McNally. This system helps you plan your route, find campgrounds and attractions, and more. It’s easy to use and can save you time and money while traveling. You’ll have a direct route and avoid getting lost or wasting gas while driving around in circles.
Save More Money When You Avoid Toll Roads
Another way to save money on gas is to plan your route carefully. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, it’s good to map out your route in advance and minimize fees for toll roads.
We plan driving times for non-peak hours to avoid rush hour traffic and the chaos of city commuter traffic. This is especially beneficial if we are unfamiliar with the area or need extra time to evaluate the correct exits while on the move.
Use A Trip Planner to Map Out Your Route
You can use an online mapping tool like Google Maps or MapQuest to plot out the most efficient route from point A to point B. If you’re planning a long road trip, it’s also a good idea to map out rest stops, campgrounds, restaurants, and other places where you can stop for a break.
Google Maps is a web mapping service developed by Google. The online tool shows satellite imagery, aerial photography, street maps, 360° panoramic views of streets (Street View), real-time traffic conditions, and route planning information for traveling by car, bike, or foot.
Google Maps includes a “Gas prices” feature to help you find the cheapest gas stations along your route. Open Google Maps and enter your starting point and destination to use this feature. Then, click on the Menu bar and select “Gas prices.”
Enjoy the View While Saving Money
When planning your route, look for scenic highways instead of freeways.
Scenic highways are often less crowded than freeways, which can help you save time and gas. In addition, scenic roads typically offer beautiful views that you would miss if you were on an interstate highway. Just be sure to consider the speed limit when planning your route, as driving too slowly in rough terrain can use more gas than driving on a freeway.
Lighten Your Load
It’s also important to make sure you’re not overloading your RV. An overloaded RV will use more gas than one within its weight limits.
Packing light is essential for road trips, and it can save you a lot of money on gas. When you don’t have to carry much weight, your RV will travel more efficiently.
There are a few other ways to reduce the weight of your RV to improve your gas mileage. One way is to eliminate unnecessary items, such as excess clothes or furniture. Another way to reduce weight is to replace heavy items with lighter alternatives such as this inflatable lounger.
You can also install solar panels on your RV, which will help reduce the weight of your vehicle while also providing some extra power.
Save Money in Other Ways
Park in the shade to keep the RV cooler and use less air conditioning.
Consider using awnings to provide shade for the RV.
Use solar panels to power the RV, which will save on gas or electricity.
Turn off the engine when stopped for long periods.
Use a portable grill for cooking instead of running the stove.
Keep windows and curtains closed during the day to block out the sun’s heat. At night, open them up to let the cool air in.
Travel during cooler months to avoid using the air conditioner as much.
Join A Camping Club
Consider signing up for an RV camping club-like KOA, for example, to get discounts on campsites, fuel, and other services. You can also get discounts on membership dues and other camping-related purchases.
Regular Maintenance Program
One of the best ways to save money on gas when traveling by RV is to keep your RV well-maintained. This means regularly checking the engine oil, tire pressure, and other fluids. Doing this will help improve your RV’s fuel efficiency and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Save on Daily Parking Fees
Park at RV-friendly areas, like campgrounds and truck stops, to save money on overnight stays. Find campgrounds that offer discounts for staying a week or more. We have enjoyed many week-long stays at Cody’s in Weeki Wachee, Florida. A longer stay can save you money on gas and nightly fees. Look for campgrounds close to attractions so you don’t have to drive long distances daily for activities.
Many RV travelers find it helpful to park at truck stops overnight. This is because truck stops typically have more space than campgrounds, which can be beneficial if you have a large RV. In addition, truck stops usually offer cheaper rates than campgrounds. Just check with the truck stop before parking to make sure it is RV-friendly.
Boondocking is a term used for camping in a location that does not have any amenities like water, electricity, or sewer hookups. This can be a great way to save money on camping fees, as you will not pay for any of these services. When boondocking, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as making sure you have enough water and propane for your trip. You may also consider using a solar panel to power your RV.
Travel with Others
Another way to save on fuel is to carpool with other RVs. If you’re traveling with friends or family, take turns driving and let everyone share the gas costs. You can also look for RV caravans or convoys going to the same destination as you. Traveling together can save money, but it’s also a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Shop at Grocery Stores
One way to save money while traveling by RV is to pack your own snacks and beverages. This will help you avoid paying high prices at convenience stores. It’s also a good idea to bring along a portable heater and cooler carrier to keep your food and drinks at the right temperature. You can even save money by shopping at a grocery store and then cooking your own meals, allowing you to reduce the expense of eating out at restaurants.
Alternatives to Driving
And finally, one of the best ways to save money on gas is simply to drive less. If you can take public transportation, ride a bike, or walk to your destination, you’ll save a lot on fuel costs. And who knows, you might just enjoy yourself more without all the driving!
Summary of Tips to Save Money on Gas
Use these simple tips and tricks to help improve your RV fuel economy and save money on gas. With some planning and effort, you can reduce your use of gas without sacrificing your travel plans or comfort.
So, get out there and explore the open road—your wallet will thank you!
These are just a few ideas—if you have any other tips, please share them in the comments below.
Gwyn Goodrow
John Goodrow
