When chatting with fellow motorhome enthusiasts, three little letters often come up – mpg. We do tend to be a bit obsessed with miles per gallon in this country, and for good reason – it’s essential. However, here’s something that might surprise you: it’s not just about the vehicle, it’s also about you.

Your driving style and habits can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency, wear and tear, and the environment. Want to save on fuel, ease the burden on your ‘van and leave a smaller footprint? Here are my 10 top tips for greener motorhome driving.

1. Tyre TLC

Make sure you look after your motorhome tyres – if they’re underinflated, it’s like carrying an invisible anchor and really isn’t going to help you with greener driving. They create drag, leading to increased fuel consumption and accelerated tread wear. Ensure that all of your tyres, including the spare.

Don’t forget to make sure you’ve got the correct motorhome tyre pressure, either!

Checking the tyre pressure
Make sure your tyres have the correct pressure.

2. Smooth and steady with the accelerator

Treat the accelerator as if it were made of glass – smooth and gentle is definitely the way to go. Hard acceleration and abrupt braking can deplete fuel efficiency by up to 30%.

Imagine you are driving with a cup of tea on the dashboard; being gentle is essential for fuel economy and minimises wear and tear.

A man driving a motorhome.
Treat the accelerator gently when you’re driving your ‘van.

3. Pack with care

Do you load your motorhome as if it’s Noah’s Ark? Every extra kilogram means additional fuel consumption, so ask yourself: do you really need that ‘just-in-case’ kit? If you can’t recall the last time you used it, it’s probably safe to leave it behind. A lighter load benefits both your wallet and your vehicle.

Luggage packed into a motorhome's garage
Pack your ‘van with care, only taking the items you think you’ll need.

4. Navigation aids

The best motorhome sat nav can be real lifesavers, especially if you set it to find the most fuel-efficient routes. Try to avoid hills, endless roundabouts and stop-start traffic. Fewer U-turns and smoother driving can help reduce navigational stress!

The Garmin Camper 1095
The Garmin Camper 1095.

5. Master the gears

Keeping your motorhome in the appropriate gear is vital for fuel efficiency and a smoother ride. Advanced driving techniques, such as timing your arrival at a set of red traffic lights without needing to stop because you are at the right speed and gear, can save on fuel and create a smoother ride experience for your passengers.

6. Cruise Control

If your motorhome provides you with cruise control, use it on long, flat stretches of road. A good driving tip is maintaining a steady speed for fuel efficiency and to alleviate the pressure from you and the engine – a win-win for your mpg and mental wellbeing.

7. Wind matters

Motorhomes are not the most aerodynamic vehicles, but you can still reduce drag. If you have a roof rack, consider what’s stored up there; the more items you stack, the harder
your ’van has to work. In addition, keep the cab windows closed at high speeds, to cut down on wind resistance.

8. Fuel up wisely

Not all petrol stations offer the same prices, especially on motorways. Use an app to locate cheaper, eco-friendly options along your route. Try not to let your tank run too low, either, as driving on fumes can damage your fuel pump and cost you more in repairs.

9. Maintenance is key

Think of motorhome maintenance as preventative care for your ’van. A well-maintained engine runs more smoothly and consumes less fuel. Regular servicing, changing filters and checking oil levels will prepare your vehicle for the long haul, while making it more fuel efficient.

Checking the oil levels
Carrying out tasks such as checking out the oil levels in your ‘van will help you prepare your vehicle.

10. Slow down!

I don’t just mean reducing your speed on motorways. Driving at 58mph instead of 70mph can save you fuel, but the more significant change comes from adjusting your overall travel pace. Motorhome drivers often feel the need to reach a new destination every day. Instead, take your time – stay longer at each location, travel fewer miles, and truly enjoy each place you visit. You’ll save fuel, experience more, and feel more relaxed.

An A-class motorhome being driven
Take your time and enjoy the journey to your chosen campsite.

These tips will help to make your motorhome journey more efficient and eco-friendly. While you are at it, consider supporting local businesses on your travels, by shopping at farmer’s markets, local stores and butchers. You’ll travel lighter and contribute positively to the local economy, while immersing yourself in the culture.

Greener driving in your motorhome doesn’t require huge sacrifices – it’s all about making small, practical changes. So drive easy, take your time, and let’s keep this planet ready for motorhome exploration!

You can find out more about me and listen to my podcast at motorhomematt.co.uk


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