RV owners may look at different ways to save with fuel efficient caravanning tips and advice, choice of RV and towing vehicle and saving on the purchase finance. The surge in fuel prices as a result of the Middle East conflict, left many RV owners rethinking their travel plans. Coming right at school and Easter holiday time, the higher price cycle meant many trip cancellations. An issue which affected not only the holidaymakers, but the holiday park operators and many popular tourist towns.
While prices are expected to normalise when supply is stabilised, many could be taking the fuel price surge as a wake-up call. Especially at a time when inflation is also high in Australia and many are struggling with costs of living. A wake-up call to look for ways to save and still enjoy their caravan lifestyle, travel and holidays.
We’ve done some research to compile some tips and advice from various sources to provide owners with a starting point to plan their own savings strategy.
Tips to Reduce Fuel Costs when Towing a Caravan
Many motoring bodies and RV experts provide great tips for reducing fuel consumption while towing a RV. One source quotes consumption of around 20 litres of fuel per kilometre when towing a van. At recent prices, that is a big cost to be considered.
One of the most common tips to reduce fuel consumption is to slow down. Vehicles use less fuel at slower speeds. It is also a great tip for road safety. While caravanners don’t want to impact other travellers with exceptionally slow speeds, especially on single lane country roads, dropping it down a bit could mean a saving. At lower speed, air resistance from the van is reduced. The vehicle requires less power and less fuel to tow.
Another factor to reduce air drag and the drag on the fuel is what is attached to the RV. We’re talking the very popular bike racks, roof racks, extra storage pods on the roof and awnings.
Maintaining a constant speed may also reduce fuel consumption as does avoiding hard acceleration. When speeding up, do so gradually and the same when braking. Ensuring the tyre pressure is correct is important.
The type of road can impact fuel consumption. Highways can provide smoother driving and may mean less fuel consumed than on windy, rough country roads. Rethinking your route to your destination may deliver a savings.
The weight of the van is an important factor in consumption of fuel. It is tempting to pack plenty of extras for that holiday – bikes, kayaks, extra water and gas bottles, a load of food stuffs, or these days, even jerry cans of fuel. But these all add to the overall towing weight and how much fuel you are using and paying for. Pack light and buy the food you need at your destination while fuel prices are higher!
Here is a great tip from RAC Horizons - consider the wind speed and direction. Driving into a strong breeze creates greater air resistance and increases drag. While you may not be able to change the route to your destination, you may be able to schedule travel days in lower winds. High winds can also create dangerous driving conditions for towing a caravan so this could be a double-up good tip.
Can you tow a caravan with an EV?
With the recent surge in fuel prices and supply issues, there has been a surge in sales of EVs and hybrid cars. But for RV owners, the big question is, can you tow your RV with these types of vehicles? Our research revealed that it is possible, depending on the RV and the vehicle specs. It appears most larger EVs do have the capability, but some EVs are not recommended to be used for towing at all. It is strongly recommended to check with the car manufacturer.
One factor which will be affected when towing with an EV will the range. So you will need to plan more stops to recharge.
What caravans can be towed with an EV?
Looking at the other side of the question, the RV. Are there RV models which are designed to be towed behind an EV?
Our research revealed that Adria brought out a model some years ago which has recently been available through some Apollo retailers – the Adria 361LT. But in limited stock. This model is marketed as being towable with EVs such as the Hyundai IONIQ5 and similar sized vehicles.
Reduce Costs with Affordable Financing
While many aspects of RV ownership are beyond the owner’s control – fuel prices in particular, but also towing vehicle, buyers do have options when it comes to financing. Savings on the caravan loan can be realised by securing the lowest possible interest rates.
We make that our priority – finding our customers their best possible rate from across our 80+ lender base. Ensuring their repayments are the lowest possible to reduce the costs of buying their RV. To see what we may save you on your finance and offset those costs you can’t control, estimate your loan with our Caravan Finance Calculator or simply request a quote.
Consider fuel efficient caravanning tips and save on buying a RV with competitive rate loans from Jade Caravan Finance by calling 1300 000 003.
DISCLAIMER: THE DETAILS AND INFORMATION IN THIS CONTENT ARE PREPARED AND PRESENTED PURELY FOR INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED IN ANY WAY AS THE SOLE SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR CARAVAN PURCHASING. IF ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL ADVICE IS REQUIRED, READERS SHOULD REFER TO A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY ERRORS, PRODUCT DESCRIPTION VARIATIONS, OR OTHER MISREPRESENTATIONS OF INFORMATION AS PRESENTED.
