5 Gas Mileage Hacks for Improving RV Fuel Economy

When you want to travel in an RV, you will need plenty of fuel to reach your destination. RV owners should pay attention to fuel economy, or miles per gallon (MPG). While how many miles per gallon an RV can get depends on a variety of factors, you can improve your fuel efficiency by following some proven tips.

What Is an RV’s MPG?

The average miles per gallon for an RV is different for every vehicle. Some factors that affect MPG include:

• RV class: Class A, B and C RVs are built differently, and their size and weight factor into the fuel economy. Class B RVs get the best mileage because they are small and streamlined. Class C RVs are a mid-range option for fuel economy. Class A RVs typically have the poorest fuel efficiency due to their large size.
• Fuel type: RVs with diesel engines are more efficient than RVs with gasoline engines. Diesel engines better convert fuel energy to mechanical energy and need less fuel to power the vehicle.
• Size: While bigger RVs are comfortable to live in, their longer, broader and boxier shapes are less fuel efficient.

How to Increase Your RV’s Miles per Gallon

Following these tips can increase your RV MPG and help you save on fuel.

1. Adjust Your Driving Style

Changing how you drive your RV can improve your fuel economy by up to 7%. When driving your RV:

• Accelerate slowly: “Flooring it” from a dead stop can waste gas. Instead, gradually accelerate until you reach your desired speed.
• Stick to the speed limit: Going a few miles per hour over the speed limit may get you to your destination faster, but it also means you will use more gas. Follow the speed limit and enjoy the journey — and the fuel cost savings.
• Use cruise control: Set the cruise control to maintain a consistent speed, which uses less gas.
• Don’t idle too long: If you are waiting for a long train to go by or are in stopped traffic for an extended period, turn off the engine while you wait — it is more economical than idling for a long time.

2. Check Tire Pressure

One of the easiest methods for improving your RV fuel economy is your tire pressure. When your RV tires are at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, you can increase your mileage up to 3% and help the tires last longer to reduce the chance of a blowout.

Your RV’s tire monitoring system will alert you to an underinflated tire. You can also check tire pressure yourself. Make sure the tires are cold — not exposed to the sun — for the most accurate reading. Check your RV’s information sticker for the recommended tire pressure, which may be less than the maximum pressure recommendation on the tire sidewall.

3. Ensure Appropriate Maintenance

A fuel-efficient RV is a well-maintained RV. Regular tune-ups allow you to identify and fix issues under the hood before they become major problems that decrease your fuel economy. Your RV maintenance plan should include:

• Replacing dirty air filters.
• Using synthetic oil.
• Lubricating the hub components and brakes.

Check with your RV manufacturer for their maintenance schedule recommendations.

4. Plan an Efficient Route

Taking the time to plot your course before you start driving helps you use less gas since you have the time to find the shortest possible distance to your destination. You can also determine ways around congested areas during the worktime rush.

Other elements a fuel-efficient route should have include:

• Lower speeds.
• Flat terrain to avoid steep grades.
• Minimal backtracking.
• As few stop signs and traffic lights as possible.

The wind can also affect fuel economy. Plan a route that avoids headwinds and crosswinds when possible.

5. Do Not Overpack Your RV

Many campers want to be prepared for any scenario and pack a lot of equipment, clothes, food and other items. However, the extra weight impacts your RV’s fuel economy. Less is more when it comes to RV weight — lighter RVs are more fuel efficient than heavy vehicles.

When packing your RV, bring only the essentials and leave the extras at home. You can save more on gas and make your space more livable since it will not be as cluttered.

Why Trust Kampgrounds of America for Information on Improving RV MPG?

KOA is the largest chain of independently owned and operated campgrounds in the world. With over 55 years of experience and more than 500 locations across North America, KOA is the leading name in camping. KOA Campgrounds are where you can create unforgettable memories with your family, from making s’mores around the campfire to enjoying the outdoors.

Besides creating a great camping experience, KOA helps campers gain the most value from their RV. Behind the Yellow Sign is a team of trained campground professionals with extensive knowledge about RV ownership and maintenance. You can learn more on KOA’s RV advice blog, which features posts about essential topics like preventing mold growth in your RV, dewinterizing your RV, selecting a new mattress for your RV and more.

Learn More About Successful RV Camping With KOA

Choose a KOA Campground for your next camping destination. KOA has many types of RV Sites, amenities and activities to fill your vacation with family-friendly fun. Reserve a site today!

About the Author: Kampgrounds of America

Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.