Fuel prices have always been one of the biggest budget concerns for travelers. RV users are doubly as concerned as RVs are fuel guzzlers, and they look to get the most out of their gas mileage for every trip. Fortunately, you can take measures to maximize your RV's fuel efficiency.

In this blog, we offer tips on how to cut costs and maximize your fuel efficiency. Read on to learn strategies to save fuel when traveling in your RV. They apply to gasoline or diesel rigs.

Plan Efficient Route

Determine the most direct route with the least total mileage, and do not detour too far out of your course. While the back roads may have a more scenic route, keep in mind that the miles add up and directly affect your fuel consumption. The RV lifestyle is about enjoying the sights and sounds and soaking in the beauty of nature, but you wouldn’t want to burn half your travel budget on gas because of detours. You can plan your trip without compromising your adventure and still save on RV fuel.

Don’t simply determine the most direct route; research traffic hotspots to avoid traffic jams. Starting and stopping your vehicle and frequent acceleration and deceleration burn a lot of fuel. Planning your route will significantly minimize your risk of getting lost and the following scramble to get back on course, which would burn more fuel.

Maintain Proper Tire Inflation

Always check your tire pressure before setting off and while on the road. Underinflated tires could cause problems on the road. The time and cost of repair on the road and danger in case of a blowout aside, the increased friction will result in reduced fuel efficiency. Before heading out, ensure your tire pressure matches your manufacturer's recommendation.

Minimize Weight and Cargo

The weight your RV has to carry will determine how much fuel it'll burn to move. Adopt a minimalist attitude to packing. Bring only the essentials. To enjoy RV living, regularly assess your possessions and sell or donate what you don't need. You probably don't need it if you've not used it in six months.

Also, don't carry a lot of water in your holding tank. You can always refill on the way. The same applies to items you can rent or buy at your destination, like firewood. Do not overload your RV with kitchen appliances or groceries; leave whatever you can get on your way. You can go for lightweight containers like plastic instead of glass jars. Balance the load you carry in your RV to prevent swaying, which would make the vehicle more difficult to handle.

Keep RV Maintenance Up to Date

Before heading off in your motorhome or travel trailer, it is important to review the state of your vehicle. Get into the habit of giving your motorhome or tow car a good lookover to ensure it is in good shape before hitting the road. Routine maintenance is vital for a healthy engine. The state of your RV engine determines its fuel efficiency and mileage. Dirty oil, air filter, and underinflated tires can reduce efficiency.

Make sure you check the oil and perform quick fixes and tune-ups. Dirty or clogged fuel filters will result in your engine using more fuel to run properly. Don't ignore engine maintenance to save cost only to shell out thousands of dollars later when your RV breakdown. Contact a car service provider to help you look it over if you are not so handy with vehicles and even if you are, still call one to err on the side of caution.

Drive Efficiently

You must know how to handle your RV to get the best out of it. It is not a racecar; it is not made for high speed. Speeding on a free stretch of road will burn your fuel much faster. Slow, steady acceleration and constant speed would improve its fuel efficiency. Use cruise control where you can to keep your speed constant. When you stop, turn off your vehicle; keeping it running means you lose more fuel.

Limit Generator Use

RV generators typically convert fuel into electricity to power your equipment and appliances. You burn fuel to power your air conditioner, power outlets, and kitchen appliances. To help save fuel, consider only using these appliances when necessary.

Utilize Fuel Rewards Programs

Many companies offer fuel rewards programs that give you a discount per gallon purchased. Some popular ones are Open Roads (formerly known as TSD Logistics) and Pay with GasBuddy. Some gas stations also run such reward program systems. Consider signing up for any fuel reward program to save money at the pump.

Consider Alternate Fueling Options

The various appliances in your motorhome or campervan run on your RV fuel, increasing fuel consumption. The fuel is converted into electrical power to run your heater, power outlets, and cooking. Fortunately, there are alternatives to this, such as RV solar panels for electric power and Liquefied Petroleum Gas(LPG) as fuel for cooking for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Consider these alternative fueling options to cut back on fuel use.

Compare Fuel Prices and Plan Refueling

Pump prices can vary widely according to location and retailer. When planning your trip route, factor in your refueling stop and research locations where you can get the best deals. Though many full-time RVer prefer the ease and convenience of truck stops, it would be easier on the pocket to go for cheaper fuel at value for your money. You don't need to visit one gas station after the other to compare prices; there are several fuel price apps where you can do your research. They help save time and effort and also help optimize your route planning. One of the more popular ones is the GasBuddy app.

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