Van Life Essentials 20 SIMPLE WAYS TO SAVE $ ON GAS While Living in a Van
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- Опубліковано 20 жов 2024
- When your home is on wheels and the prices of gas are so high.. it makes it dificult to afford to travel. So here are a few ideas that might help! You do not have to suffer becuase of gas prices! Your life can actually improve! What are you going to do to save money? Please let us know in the comments below!
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Thanks for watching!
Driving style makes a big difference as well. I once travelled with a group in two identical vans, same loads, and travelling together. One drive would speed up until they were close to the car in front of them then put on the brakes, do fairly hard stops at traffic lights and then fast start ups when the light changed. The other driver kept a steady speed, stopped giving gas as soon as they saw the light change up ahead and started up gradually. The first van had to stop for gas at near empty while the other one still had a third of a tank left. I was amazed at the difference.
I do same as 2nd driver ! Often other cars will speed around me when I do slow down B4 a red light & often then they have to sit there till light turns green ! Silly !
So true. I’m the 2nd type.
Patience pays
True! Glad my dad taught me when I was a teen to image an egg under the gas as well as brake pedal...press them GENTLY, I save so much on gas.😁
OMG, yes! I drive slow and steady, leaving plenty space, and I save wear and tear on my van, and I spend way, way, way less money!!!
Bob is absolutely right about weight. I've had numerous Ford e-series vans that I converted to minimalist campers. I now have a Ram Promaster 3500 extended that I converted in 2018. I built the Promaster with the same minimalist ideas, but with lots of luxury. I have no tanks other than Gerry cans. I have no wood walls but I have really nice Thinsulate insulation. My kitchen counter is super light commercial stainless steel. I have all the luxuries including 600 watts of solar, gasoline heater, exhaust fan, lighting, swivel seats, lots of charging, compressor to inflate tires, e-bike charging, etc. etc. I'm now converting to lithium batteries from AGM that saves about 150 pounds. All tallied, my build weighs about 500 pounds. My build was very, very reasonably priced. It's not "pretty" like many of the vans you see on UA-cam. But hey, its a camping van! Many of the commercially built Ram Promaster vans have an addition 3000 pounds of build materials added to the van based weight. With my build, I have averaged 17.9 mpg over 35 K miles. If I could have stayed away from wind and mountains, I might have averaged close to 19 mpg.
Higher fuel costs can add up over 5 to 10,00 mile trips. I get same mileage as you in my GMC van. I added good insulation when I converted it 2 years ago, but it looks 'unfinished.' I don't plan on adding paneling etc due to extra weight lowering my mpg. And I'll only take absolute essenrials with me this Fall.
Hi Bob my name is Maureen Fountain I live in cartama Spain in the Campo.. countryside but go on a weekend to torromolinos.benelmadena.fuengirola next to the sea. I've been in my ford focus estate and managed very well..now looking for a ford campervan..isit possible to put bunk beds in easily as I'm 70 years old and my son is 50..haha it's the new 50 not 40..please advise and must say thank you for all your UA-cam videos they really inspire me..happy and safe camping😊🌴
Great ideas! Can I ask what you put over the Thinsulate insulation?
Just an idea but, Many are coating Styrofoam with cloth and epoxy paint for ultralight strength. It'll give you a more finished look w/o the weight of wood...
Solid advice. 👍👍 At the RTR talking to a young lady had mentioned that her Prius Was only getting about 34-ish miles per gallon. I asked what speed she was driving and said about 75. I told her to try going 60 to 65 on the interstate highways as this is where I myself experienced getting the best MPG for my Prius V at 40 to 46 mpg on calm wind days.
True to form...Reducing speed with the right tire pressure yields best results. One more tip I might throw in there is to keep the accelerator pedal at a steady position going up moderate inclines instead of flooring it to keep the speed limit....But be mindful of keeping to the right lane and even using the hazard flashers if the speed gets pretty low. You will save gas big time AND... Dramatically less wear and tear on the drive train of your home. There is more to the Prius inside scoop for more MPG's but I tend to ramble a bit. Sorry for being long winded.
Your not ty hun I'm a single mom out here no family I grew up in the foster system after I was taken away from my mom and dad for abuse any information helps me.
I get 55-60 mpg with my Prius, driving conservatively
The back drop is GORGEOUS!
Thank you for all you do to educate your viewers!
Thank you Bob for taking so much of your time to help us. It is appreciated more than you could ever know.
Bob is a National Treasure
I've seen so many people who are on the gas then on the brakes, repeatedly ! Ease
it up to speed gently then anticipate stopping well in advance. Saves gas, wear & tear
on your vehicle not to mention, saves brake linings.
Lots of good information. I do want to add you will actually get better milage with the windows up and air conditioner on compared to the air conditioner off and windows open.Driving with the windows down creates a lot of drag that will not help your mpg. 👍👍
Does this depend on what speed you're going? Certainly stop & go would be better MPG with windows open. I'm not sure the MPH where it shifts, but if I'm in a 35 MPH zone, I usually default to windows down unless it's in the 90's +.
I live in CO, so when there's a big hill on a highway, I turn off the AC & climb with just the fan, then pop it on again for the flats & downhill.
According to Scotty Kilmer, below 40 mph, roll the windows. Above, use air conditioning. Make sense to me.
I have a 40-foot diesel pusher towing my Ford Flex. I never go over 65. Even on the interstate, I stay in the right lane. 1) my Flex has a 65mph max speed to be towed. So I set the cruise control at 63mph. That gets me 9mpg. 2) I just came from Texas to Colorado. Stayed off the interstate but stuck to highways and did 50-60mph. That significantly increased my fuel milage, but the roads had passing lanes so I didn't slow down anyone else. 3) I never drive if the wind is over 20mph. That's a recipe for never getting to pass a fuel stop as I watch my fuel gage drop before my eyes. Park it on windy days. 4)I also do work-camping so I sit for awhile at places. Life is not much different, just slower with the higher prices. Slower is a good thing. Gives me time to learn a lot about an area. And getting to know the "locals" is wonderful! Everyone is proud of their local area and once they get to know you, are usually more than happy to tell you about the places they love, but you'll never find in a "tourist" brochure.
Thanks Bob. Now let me tell you what I did- - -wrong. I went from highway tires to, All Terrain. My SUV will climb hills better, but I lost about 2 mpg. I did this before gas shot up but the kind of tires you buy will help.
Thank you for your comment. It was very helpful. Have a great day.
@@theresaconley5930 Thank you. Your reply will help me have a great day, you do so too.
So true! My more agressive tires/all terrain on my Tacoma are great in the winter but suck for highway miles. Its a trade off. Tires are huge!
Planning my travels is key. Only driving a short distance, then staying the maximum period allowed.
Thank you Bob,
The camp host is a great idea. Another thought would be to stay in a state like New Mexico for 6- 9 months taking advantage of the park pass.
Nice job keeping it positive..
I am not a nomad, but I do travel in my van. Good food for thought. Thanks for what you do Bob.
This info is actually good for delivery gigs, route planning, etc.
Hi bob and cody. I always try to limit my trips to and from wherever i go. Traveling distance is minimal. I do only where i need to go. I do the speed limit or a little less speed. If we go camping. Carry only what is needed. Travel on non windy days for sure. Yep a tune up when needed. Check tire presure. If possible maybe at 50 miles of driving at a time. Staying safe on rainy days. Stay put til the weather is better to travel. Plan trips. Limit and plan trips stay put for awhile. Gas prices will go up anyway. Big vehicles get less mileage and drinks gas. Like towing trailers. Class c and class a. Do use more gas. If anyone is a nomad. Fulltime. I need a bigger vehicle. A big van for 2 people. The van would be our home permantly. The car we have will never serve a purpose just gas only. Its a car. A 3 cyl. Engine. 4 drs. Mitsubishi g.4 mirage. Handy around town only. Great little car. This car would not last on a 2 thousand mile trip. In time the engine would burn out. The van i want is a fed ex size truck. We woul have to live around town. Never traveled. A few places close to town. A caravan is perfect. The nomad life is wonderful. The freedom. Saving money. Meeting good people. Not being alone. Enjoying life. We have omly one life to live. Pray. Daily. Give thanks for our life of what we have. Jesus is always with us. He wants us to enjoy life. Cant think of a better way to enjoy our life. A camp ground host would be perfect permantly for us. The financial part is stopping us. And no van. To me. Everyone get out there and do it. Try it out. Go camping for a month. Then decide. You can always get in a sticks and bricks. If i had a house i would sell it. Ive lived in apts for 47 yrs. I cant stand it. All i do is cry. Rent keeps going up. The owners keep stealing our money. They charge buy what the houses is selling for. The owner of this place. He is a one owner. A 216 units complex. He is a multi. Millionaire. Always someone else to rent to. He dont care. I use to be a apt.assistant mngr. I know what they do. I worked for 15 yrs. So i got other jobs. Minimum wage pay. Thank you bob and cody for everything. We all love you all. Bob you are terrific. Amazing. May god bless you all. A big fan from texas. Last count was 65.000 homeless people in the u.s. its on the rise. When will it ever end. Oh. Just a note. When camping. Get a tent. To me any vehicle needs a tent. And table and chairs. Be around people. Espically solo nomads. Its more safe. Also when traveling anywhere. As i see it. Car troubles is intown as well as out of town. So get out there and do it. If i was financially able. I would of a long time ago being a nomad. Im kicking myself daily for not knowing about the wonderful nomad life. Sure wish we could of met you bob and cody at least 10 yrs ago. Love you all everyone. A nomad wannabe from texas. Oh i talked with a nomad fulltime in our town. He said rent has taken everything away from him and family. He said no choice. They were starving. Hungry. They sold furniture and some clothes for food for a few days. 2 children. All 4 standing on the freeway corners needing a job and food. Some donations. All day long. Everyday. Had a car. He does odd jobs. Family is together. Kids is helping. 7.9.yrs . seven and nine yrs. Old. They mow yards etc. No mower. They ask to use neighbors equipment. Etc. They said the best part is i told him to wash windows at any resturant. They have everything. Ask for food. And maybe a little money to. Busing tables. Clean up. Empty trash etc. They didnt think about it. They was happy. The sad part is. The children cant go to school. They are houseless and homeless. I said. Nope you might be homeless but not houseless. You have a house on wheels. A roof over your heads. Out of the weather when raining. Save money for a tent. Go at least 10 miles outside the city for tent living. Going to town. Pack up the tent. Take it with you. Someone might steal it. They said they would. They now have been on the streets happy for 15 yrs. They said they eat better. Have a few clothes. Hair cuts. A membership for bathing and exercise etc. A tent. They dont want to go back in apts. Again. The man is looking for a regular job. Not yet any job. They said the nomad life is perfect for them. They made friends. Maybe the kids his learning from neighbors. Havent seen them in 2 months. I met them at the laundrymat. Thank you all for your time.
Planning my route back to Southern Alberta from Deming, NM, I discovered that Google Maps now suggests most fuel-efficient routes - very helpful!
careful of those "fuel efficient routes" on Google maps, they can take you places you dont want to be
@@8188jlpc thanks. Duly noted.
I’m partial to kind people it speaks to my soul and lifts the spirit!! Thanks Bob great video
When I lived in Tucson, during the summer, I would only go to appointments and do my shopping in the early mornings or late evenings so I wouldn't have to use my AC and use up more gas. It worked really well in Tucson with triple digit temperatures because it has low humidity except when we had a monsoon come in. Then it felt like I was living in Phoenix. 🙄 I took notes and made a list of all these wonderful ways to save gas. Great Video Bob and CRVL Crew! Thank you! 😀 ❤👍🏻
Attitude really does make a difference in all situations. Great list. We can’t let ourselves get completely discouraged. Lemonade from lemons is the way to go.
Would like to add two ideas.
1) If you plan to go for a second vehicle like a scooter check whether you can get an electrical one. Charged from your solar it doesn't cost you anything to drive to town. (I don't mean these small ones with the very small wheels on which you have to stand but comfortable ones, with seat etc.) Seems meanwhile also electrical quads are coming, maybe also worth to consider ...
2) try to make your rig more aerodynamic resp. plan to keep the air resistance low before you add something (like e.g. roof racks, solar cells) to your rig. There are quite some simple and relatively cheap ways to do that, e.g. by covering the luggage you transport on the roof, or by adding wind deflectors, using smaller antennas, roof vent covers and so on. Even the way of the installation of your solar cells might give some options to improve your mileage. Besides always keeping the resistance low especially concerning everything on the roof check also under the vehicle for some improvements since also there can happen unneccessary drag. Maybe even tow guards can improve the air drag coefficient of your rolling home.
I love your advice and I especially love your attitude! Turn that frown upside down and make the most of it! Thank you Bob!! I really feel better after watching your videos.
I use a “5% back on gas” card. Also, get a loyalty card at cheaper gas companies. If you are in state that has cheaper gas, buy gift cards for gas while you’re there. Get an Electric bike you can use when you’re camped to go to the store, etc.
Electric bike is a GREAT recommendation!
The costco credit card (citi visa) offers a 4% cash back for the first $7000 you spend on gas per year. No annual fee.
The citi custom cash card gives you 5% cash back on the first $500 of your largest spending category (whether it's gas, food, car repairs) and you get 1% cashback on everything else. Also no annual fee.
If you're strict about budgeting and always pay off your balance on time, you never have to worry about paying interest. But if you struggle with sticking to a budget, it's more cost effective to avoid a credit card altogether.
Very good suggestions, Bob. Limiting travel distances by planning ahead is gold.
Bob thank you SO much for all your efforts. I’m 6 months full time Rv living, and I have learned so much from your videos. It was a Pleasure running in to you in Pahrump.
Thanks Bob for reinforcing the rules about commenting any negative stuff. Really appreciate that.
BTW ,the back ground where you are in this video is AWESOME ! if I knew how I'd get a screen shot of you there !
Hear, hear. The production, distribution, and price fluctuations of energy -- specifically oil -- are simply not tied to donkeys or elephants. It's much more complicated than that. Anyway, nice to read a comments section on youtube that doesn't make my hair turn grey :)
Just press your buttons on the side if your phone if you have an S10 that's how I get ascreen shot.
Sami your opinion only works when the donkey is in office. We used to be energy independamt.
Bob it is so good for you to refresh our memory and we thank you so much. Moving to the different areas and move to different state parks and just move in 2 weeks like in Arizona in winter. It is very helpful to conserve gasoline.
Appreciate you! Thank you for the tips. I am about to drive my rig 1580 miles to my daughter. I found when drive 58mph its my sweet spot that saves gas and $$.
31ft class C rv.
When we camped & traveled in our scotty highlander, my paw handed me (age 12) the map and said here kid you're the navigator! He showed me how to read a map, about the legends, directions, everything about driving and safety. How to drive frugally, strategies such as Bob mentioned for getting the most out of a gallon of gas, driving defensively, and using mirrors. A railroad man and truck driver from the '40's he always said safety is no accident and plan, plan, plan, to reduce risk. Plus he taught me maintenances on the vehicle and trailer. Man I learned a lot, experienced a lot and Bob is correct in my opinion. Thanks, Bob, for all you & HOWA and team do!
Most folks if they adopt what Bob is suggesting here will save money from the way they were doing things before...... no doubt! And in doing so you will have taught yourself some things that will make you total life better. Bravo Bob just Bravo.
Another great video Bob and gang! And that you for keeping the politics and hate opinions out of comments. Makes it a pleasant experience. Love the savings tips, and learning something new today!❤ can you talk more about these gas apps please?
Another way to help you save gas is to have a wheel alignment done at a trustworthy shop. I had an F-350 that was getting terrible gas mileage, around 10m.p.g. on the freeway. After a needed alignment she went to 16 on the highway. The truck was fighting itself going down the road. As soon as I got into it I could feel the difference. Another way is to learn how to change your air filter yourself.
And keep your tires inflated.
Finding a trustworthy shop and maintaining your vehicle is key!
Having done super mileage competitions in college in the 80’s, it’s mostly about weight, average RPM, & friction for a given vehicle. Drive smoothly, keep the RPM’s in the “sweet zone”. Avoid running the engine without being at the optimum speed for that RPM (idling/traffic). Keep your weight down as much as possible and add consumable weight (water, food, etc), as late in the travel as possible. Make sure your tires are properly inflated (the friction factor). And of course, drive less to consume less.
After a little math… we are at $7.25/gallon in USD where I live. For regular farm gas… and diesel is barely cheaper, have been since March of 2022. We are stationary in our RV, but don’t have adequate solar and run a generator for topping up the batteries until mid summer. It’s still having quite an impact even without travelling. Thanks for both the tips, *and* the politics ban! Censor away… please, it’s about doing what we can to improve the situation, not blaming arbitrarily.
Considering everything. I do believe that this is your most helpful video to date. I am proud to say I do all of these things and have been for sometime. It's called prepping or preparing for uncertainty. May being frugal become our way. Your most important words today. Be kind and compassionate. Thanks Bob.
Good vibes only!! I love it
Yes! Love you, Bob! My goodness, I hope you receive back to you all the kindness you give others!
Adding an air dam under the front of your rig will cut down on drag a lot. Side skirts also help. The lower the better. They keep the wind from dragging on all your undercarriage parts. Race cars use them to gain speed. You can save on gas as well.
Thank You Bob, as always you deliver the information and give Inspiration! 🙏
Yes, come and visit us out here in Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas.. Oh and land is inexpensive in most of these states too. 50mph is the most fuel efficient speed for most vehicles. We got 20.2 mpg in a Dodge ram 3500 on our last trip. Our Jeep Patriot does not do that well most of the time. I would add if you can do without roof racks or gear storage up on the roof it can save you up to 20%, on gas mileage. Thank you for another great video. Safe travels.
That’s awesome! Gas or diesel? I’m going to be selling my truck and truck camper soon but for now.. I was just playing a bit with my mpg on my Ram 3500 diesel on a 2 hr trip. I was only getting around 16 mpg when I kept it at 60. I am a really bad slow driver but I’m working on it!
Exactly get rid of that massive rack on your roof all those ladders hanging off everywhere if you don’t need them get rid of them garage sale give them away
Thanks Bob! I am not mobile, taking care of my 87yo mother. I built myself an Electric Recumbent Trike! 1500 watt mid drive motor that will get me up almost any hill and 58V40 amp battery with a shade canopy that is a 100 watt solar panel. It trickle charges my battery, I plan on adding 2 panels for faster recharging but I have a bike trailer, and will head into town that way for supplies
Bob, I am pretty sure in Wyoming you can stay in there national forests for 28 days in a 60 day period. This is for each individual Forest. So you can stay 14 days in one spot, than you have to move to another spot after that it has to be a minimum of 3 SQUARE MILES from your original spot. So It would cut down on gas. And some of there national forests are really close to each other.
Just curious... Can you go back and forth to the same spots every 14 days? Or is it 14 days a YEAR?
@@mooseliver1772 it depends. You’ll want to check at the ranger/welcome station at NP’s but on BLM land you can change spots easily. Overall - contact the park offices or call Reserve America to get more specific details. Happy trails!
Bob - you are an inspiration! That says it all. Loving, caring, kind - the epitome of goodness. Truly appreciate you and your excellent advice. Thank you.
Thanks Bob for all the helpful things you do and all the helpful information you get out to the rest of us! Have a great day!
My favorite is SLOW DOWN. The ‘road warrior/cannonball run’ mentality on US highways makes me crazy. 🙄
Bob- I have a Prius that I camp in. It has the eco mode that shows how expensive accelerating can be. Save a ton of money and go slow in the take off. Watch you rpm. Make a game out of it.
In RVs high speed is more dangerous in case of a tire blow out an accident can cost your LIFE. It was the same for me in the Limo Business. Have a great Day
What a pretty view behind you. Thanks Bob you da man!
Great editing on this video. There's no downtime between comments, great sound, great video quality.
Mr. Wells, I've learned so much from your channel. Thank you!!!
After watching all the Prius Videos on this channel, I went and bought a 2012 Prius V. Best decision I ever made. I get around 40 mpg plus the car acts as an auto generator for my batteries and inverter that I use to run my microwave. The auto climate control is also a plus. 👍
I wanted a PriusV, but they stopped making them 😭
And used ones for sale were non-existant. So I ended up getting a Sienna (hybrid).
I really miss my 2005 Prius.
Thank you....I've changed my life because of you.
Great TIPS for all drivers 👍 being really picky while I'm researching info while looking for a van to be my Nomad home !
I would like to put the focus on the vehicle itself for more miles per gallon. Low tire pressure is the biggest culprit. Get a quality air pressure gauge, and use it. Another mpg destroyer is a dirty engine air filter. When the air filter gets dirty, it chokes the engine, causing a rich fuel air mixture. The best way to get the information on your vehicle is to calculate your miles per gallon at every fuel fill up. It’s very easy to do: miles driven / gallons pumped = Miles Per gallon. If you have a slow leak in a tire, it will show up as poor handling and lowered miles per gallon. Recommended air filter replacement Interval is usually 15,000 miles. If you’re going through dusty dirty air, you might need to change it at 10,000 miles. If you’re going on the highway through clean air environments, you may get 20,000 miles before you need to change your filter. Also, calculating your mpg at each fill up will Give you feedback on the relationship between the to terrain you’ve been driving through, The speed you are traveling, and the mpg you can expect. In my own, case when I’m traveling with a cargo trailer in tow, my gas mileage isn’t as low as I would predict…… why?….. I usually go SLOWER, 10 MPG slower.
For Me A Record! My truck at around 70 mph - miles per hour. I get about 10 mpg - miles to the gallon with AC and cruise on. I slowed way down to 42 mph and got 42.5 mpg with AC and cruise on. I've been in auto field 30 years. Lower tachometer increases fuel mileage drastically. Exzample: slow down, Gear Vendor over drive, Higher ring and pinion like a stock 3.08 go to a 2.43 or change whole rear end, taller tires on drive axle.
Best way to save money on gas.... Don't drive unless essential!
Blessings to you for sending us love and great information for us out here. I always try to keep the proper tire inflation, and service my rig much better so it operates more efficiently. I know you said do this.
Bob, my suggestion is using grocery store gas points. I paid $1-1.50/gallon during my last trip. It would be $3 now, but that still beats $4!!!
Every $1 spent = 1 point. Gift cards are 2-4x points. 100 points = 10 cents off per gallon, up to 1000 points for $1 off per gallon. So, on my 2019 trip I paid $3 in CA & $1-1.50 in AZ, NV, NM, TX, IN, OH, MO, IL. The stores have apps that show fuel locations, either their stores or chains.
I haven’t gone FT yet, but the month before a trip, I accumulate gas points. If I’m lucky, they will have a 4x points on gift cards promotion. There are sometimes coupons to get 200 points for certain food items. I prefer Ralphs/Kroger, because they’re in most states and even have their own stations that are less than Costco before applying points. If Shell = $4.25, Kroger = $3.75, Costco = $3.65; after $1 off, Shell = $3.25, Kroger = $2.75.
Kroger mostly partners with Shell, which is in most states I travel through (I-40 & I-80).
The way I accumulate a lot of points is to use gift cards for just about everything I buy or subscribe to - Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, Apple, Google Play, Sirrius, Ulta/Sephora. Yes, Amazon, Hulu, etc. let you apply gift cards to your monthly subscriptions. Some phone plans do, too. Look at the gift card aisle and buy cards for places you shop at regularly - Starbucks, Dunkin, fast food, sit down restaurants, airlines, food delivery, Home Depot/Lowes, Uber/Lyft.
I especially like getting Target cards because I can get food or anything there and they have drive up pick up with no minimum charge. I also buy a $100+ Cracker Barrel card before a trip because I can overnight there in most states. I bought one of those 12V lunch boxes you suggested and heat up my leftovers when I leave up. It’s hot by my lunch stop.
I use gift cards when I’m not traveling, but obviously need fewer points. For people who take your advice and only drive 100 miles/month, earning a few hundred points per month is pretty doable. Even if you can’t get a few thousand points, saving 30 or 50 cents per gallon, especially at the grocery store gas station, is a big help.
It’s easier than it sounds, just becomes a habit. But also, Costco is a good way to save moderately on gas. For me, the small effort to buy gift cards are worth the savings (most can be bought online). I also combine savings by buying subscriptions through Rakuten and Ibotta.
We are hosting this year . Went from paying $750.00 a month to paying zero. Put in 12 hours a week for a spot with full hook up's.
Sometimes A/C helps with gas mileage if the alternative is open windows. Air coming in the windows causes resistance. Don't blast it. Use your privacy curtain so cold air stays in cab while driving.
I’ve been timing the spring winds out west to catch tail winds while driving as well and call it a night when it turns into a cross/tailwind.
I just left Wisconsin for my first trip in 6 months . I own a 2016 BMW X5 diesel .. I just converted my car into a camper . I drove to Virginia Beach I got 780 miles per tank . I don’t drive more than 60 . I did lose some miles on the hills and it poured most of the time I traveled . I don’t use the ac . I got a ryobi fan for my pooch lol . It still cost me a lot for the drive but I’m here for 3weeks . I will then head to the Adirondacks in NY for the summer and save for my travels in the fall . I hope to go to Az and west in the winter . I know it’s going to be much more expensive , but good planning does help . Thank you for your information.
I drove from Flagstaff to MONUMENT VALLEY (200 miles) with a 25 mph SW tailwind and got 17 MPG! 5 MORE THAN USUAL.
I waited a few days bc before that there were strong north headwinds every day where I would've got 8 mpg probably.
Native American reservations sometimes have gas stations where the gas is substantially cheaper because I don't think they pay a federal tax on it
I always try to find the cheapest gas in the area, and keep tires inflated. I read that if your traveling at 40 mph or slower you should open windows and not put on the a/c, but highway driving is better to have windows shut and a/c on. Also read that having cruise control on while driving up mountains will literally suck up your gas. Thanks Bob for the reminder to lighten my van. I have a bad habit of stuffing everything I can fit into it.
using cruise control going down the mountain is better though, saves brakes and better for the engine.
I found using the generator less especially when cooking ( in the microwave ) and using the propane cook top saves me money since propane is cheaper.
I get extra 1-2 mpg by setting cargo van cruise control highway speed at 64-65 (semi truck speed), which means I drive mostly in truck/slow lane. Also, by planning city/town trips during Non-high traffic times, avoiding higher winds (20 mph +) if possible, and slow down way before at stop light thus trying not to have to fully stop and take off from complete stop. I make it into a game to see if I can beat my previous week's cost of gas.
About gas prices along main highways vs. prices along back roads: It depends. Prices in remote places will be higher partly because of the extra transport costs, but sometimes because the owner is thinking, "I've got a monopoly here, where else are you going to go?" Prices right at highway exits are often higher for two reasons. One is that the rent is higher at those prime locations than it is farther from the highway. The other is that they often exploit the fact travelers are unfamiliar with the area or are just in a hurry and want easy access. And then there are places like Williams AZ. The prices are high there even though it's along a main fuel delivery route. They exploit those who want to gas up before heading up to Grand Canyon, and those who didn't fill up at Grand Canyon because of the extra high prices and they really need gas now. Meanwhile, the prices in small towns just down the interstate from Williams are lower. Around the country, I've found the lowest prices are usually in towns along main roads, but a few miles off the highway. That's why I like gas finder apps. I needed gas as I approached Benson AZ. Gas Buddy showed me a station farther into town where the price was about 15¢/gal lower than the stations by the highway exits.
My dad liked to go into towns for fuel but I think they've figured that out now😉
Thanks, Bob. Iam planning to stay in one location weeks instead of days. Will be spending most of this summer in my home state. I have lived in Wyoming 40 years and still have a bucket list of things, places I haven't seen yet.
Good morning!!_ Great video and information. Thank you for your disclaimer on the haters.
Most Beautiful Scenery I have seen you in!
Thanks Bob...lots of folks on utube have decided to try to build campgrounds for those who need to sit!
Hi Bob, thanks for all the tips. I appreciate your channel and watch it regularly. I'm not a nomad yet....still deciding about that kind of life. But I do have a small travel trailer and love finding new places to camp. Regarding politics, it doesn't do any good to bash one side or the other, nothing changes. All I will say is that in Feb. of 2021 I drove from MN. to Quartzite and never paid more than $2.49/gal. This summer it looks like I'll be taking your advice by exploring MN. and trying to save on gas. The point is, elections matter....choose wisely.
Only the most delicate of snowflakes would have an issue with such a benign comment.
It would be so wonderful if there were more people in the world like you. Thank you Bob for your channel. I have a Shell gas membership card that you can get at any Shell station and I have it linked to a couple of credit cards and I am getting 55 cents off a gallon now as long as you get 6 gallons or more. Adds up and makes a real difference.
I think this is a great idea. I have been a prepper my whole life. I have always lived paycheck to paycheck. But I have always fixed my life with paying my way and not borrow money. I have no loans, never had a credit card, Always do food storage, Live where I can pay less rent and cost of living. I live in Mex.Almost 30 years, With my income I could not live in the States. Puarito Penasco is a great place to live. Close to U.S . I think I am kind of a nomad. Plan to hit the road Some day. I think everyone should store food, cash and a plan. I think this is a great series for the people who are out there. Who have never prepped . Great job.
Easiest way to reduce weight for most RV's, before hitting the road, stop by the dump station, empty both black and Grey tanks, and take out all the garbage! Alot of folks forget that one, and it is weight you will not miss!
Bob's former ambulance would benefit from a fiberglass aero cap mounted over the cab. Big rigs are much more aerodynamic by using them together with side panels to allow the air to flow smoothly around the truck and trailer
Bob is a National Treasure.
I live in Switzerland and my plan is to boon Dock or go stealthy a couple of weeks at the time here and there . Also to spend summers on camping grounds . No matter how expensive size gaz gets it will always be way cheaper than renting an apartment. Thank U so much for your wisdom, I've order 2 copies of your book, one for me and one for my son. Take care.
Love you Bob! I though if you're camping in a group and socializing that if one person is heading to town why not ask if anyone needs anything or want to ride along. You could alternate vehicles or pay driver. Use a tip can! Great video Bob.
Bob
Love your show
If you drive 55 you save fuel too
Fred
Hey Bob, love your video's, these are all great tips, I'd like to add one more, and that is tires, a good quality, proper tire can also save you money on gas, as well as wear and tear on your vehicle. Taking care of your tires, (I use 303 on my tires to keep them from drying out and wearing out sooner) will save you a lot money over the long run, and as someone else stated, driving style and habits will also have a big impact. Even just getting 1 to 2 extra mpg adds up pretty quickly.
I'll reduce weight, and set for 2 weeks. Make shorter moves, no fast starts from a stop, reduce speed by 10 mph, ihave seen it work already. I have a 1989 350 van . I was getting 81/2 mpg now I get from 91/2 to 10mpg. These things work, thanks BOB
Thanks Bob! Hope to see you next spring!
Positive Thinking and with a open mind look for opportunities and look for options.
Thank you for all the ideas. I was going to sell my place and go full time nomad last year but my health did a little hiccup and I had a real concern about gas and where I could go. So alas I'm still staying put for now. But all these tips are great as are all your tips and videos. And thank you for the political free place to come and fellowship 😃
A scooter was an excellent suggestion! As Bob mentions laws regarding 50cc scooters vary from state to state. I’ve owned 50cc, 150cc and 250cc scooters. State laws vary tremendously so in some cases you can operate a 50cc scooter with only your regular operators license. Most states have minimal requirements for 50cc scooters so this type scooter might be your best option. If you do decide to buy a scooter do your research beforehand. Every state is different for licensing, registration and insurance requirements of scooters.
Only matters if you get stopped😉
Good thoughts!!!!!!
I implemented most of these tips when I retired! I had carpooled with another person most of my teaching career so my gas expenses were cut in half during my working years. I knew I had to further cut expenses when my income was reduced, and gas was one expense I was determined to keep low so I could enjoy the experiences I choose to have!
I’m fortunate enough to have a full-time remote job with flexible hours that I work online from anywhere. So instead of paying rent, I’ll pay for gas and continue my travels. BUT, I can definitely use some of these tips to stretch my gas budget a bit farther.
One more tip: keep your vehicle in good mechanical condition. If it’s misfiring or even just has a dirty air filter, it won’t run as efficiently as it should. If the check engine light turns on, that often puts the engine computer into a “limp mode,” which isn’t as fuel efficient as normal operation.
In the past I would be out yard sailing or running to the lake. While running the air conditioning Driving 45 mile just go see my sister for the day and now I don’t go yard sailing I have went to going to my sister and staying for a week and I am not using the air conditioner just rolling the windows down. The slowing down part was easy here in Oklahoma our speed limit is 65 anyway and I have always drove at 60 any ways. Very informative video Bob and some very sound advice. I grew up in California all over it and in Oregon as well. So I was raised by nomads till all of my siblings and I are in Oklahoma for over 42 years now. It was cheaper here and allowed us to all be able to purchase homes and raise our kids together. Even though we no longer live the nomadic life we have never forgot our teachings and it’s help us to adjust to the changes that we all are experiencing. God Bless everyone who is traveling and keep them safe. Amen
I live down here in the Caribbean, I moved here some years ago I’ve traveled much of the U.S.A. while serving in the military, and seen some awesome country specially Washington state. I notice that we have retired folks living down here from the states living in sailboats all fixed up with the most modern amenities. They travel island hopping “ St. John’s, St. Thomas, all the way down to St Martin, and smaller uninhabited islands and just like you sit back and enjoy the life. Thanks for the vid and the enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Good video Bob, you have some great tips. Driving slower, especially with a boxy vehicle makes a lot of sense.
Great video Bob, and well timed! Here in Okla, our gas is reasonable compared to some other states and we have many places to create a short drive trip plan around. I just never thought of it, duh... Wind is a big mpg killer here and it often dies down at night, although tailwinds can be beneficial. I haul a small scooter in my trailer that gets over 70mpg and do short runs for ice, etc with it. Honda has many street legal minimotos now that get way over 100mpg and do 60mph! Thanks again
My 2012 ram 1500 was getting way under it's rated 19mpg and out of desperation tried seafoam on it. I put way more than the directions suggested and did it on an almost empty tank. It was probably about 20% less efficient than it should have been and after the treatment it was right at the manufactures rating of 19mpg. Somebody already mentioned ebikes but they are super cheap to run and don't stink up the interior of your rig with gas fumes. Seems in the SW US winds are super strong during the day and calm down at night. Also they can change direction. I remember pulling over in Texas heading out west pulling a 26' trailer the wind was so bad only getting 7mpg. Started back at night only to have a tail wind which got me 18mpg. I try to leave the a/c on recirculate and when it get's too cold shut off the compressor but leave the fan on. It's a pain wish manufactures would make thermostats that would do this automatically standard equipment! Suspect electric vehicles do this out of necessity. Wind resistance is a very interesting subject to research on google. Big rigs pay a lot of attention to this for good reason. Rolling resistance due to weight isn't nearly as important to them as wind resistance. And it goes up exponentially with speed.
Great tips Bob. So far this summer I planned to stay east for a variety of events I usually take part in. Staying put rather than east to west back and forth saved fuel and I stayed in some nice places, some with free camping up to 5 days!
Thank you for these tips. What I liked most was so many tips but you were very willing to accept that we are all different and desire to move more then some and less then others. Yet you are so willing to share so many tips and then accept that we each may do some of the tips and not do other things you shared. Thank you so very much😘.
Some tips I recently learned: fuel when its coolest (morning) to get denser fuel; fuel on slow speed to reduce vapor loss; keep tank 1/2 full to reduce vapor loss; never fuel when bulk tanks are being filled to reduce sucking up crap.
Comparing costs of owning a house to living in a vehicle, the cost of gas is affordable😊
Be good kind generous people exactly what you are Bob
Thankyou for all these great tips all together
From Bunbury western Australia x x
I learned so much about cruise control and the air conditioner,thank you.
Hi Bob 👋, To save gas ⛽️ Drive 55 MPH , or just under that. It will make a tremendous difference in your MPG. Also AVOID Jackrabbit Starts. Increase your MPH gradually up to the desired speed. As often as possible, Do your shopping, and laundry 🧺 whenever you move from one spot to another. Moving every one, or two weeks will also conserve your fuel noticeably. I completely agree with plan your trip, and follow your plan. Planning to stay in one state for awhile is a good idea simply because you will have to do less driving in general between camping areas. Traveling with a group is always a good idea, There is safety in numbers. Keep up the good work Bob, Respectfully, Thomas Vickers
If possible always as you start off on the road while pulling a rig keep your A/C off until you get up to speed then turn your A/C on.
Greetings Bob, all I can say is Thank You Bob. The information you provide is sincere and from the heart, your fan, Roland.
I began stealth city vandwelling in my 2002 Ford E350 van with a V10 engine and 244,000 miles about 18 months ago. In that time the van has traveled about 600 miles, mostly to the car wash and the gas station. I daily drive a beater reliable 2013 Honda Fit that I've put 14,000 miles on during the same period. All city miles. I don't "live in a van." I live in a city and I sleep in a van. Works for me.
@@LisaLightning Both of my vehicles are registered and insured in my state, which is California. Yes I have to find parking for both vehicles. The van gets started every day to maintain the battery, and moved for washing and fueling and in accordance with street cleaning restrictions. The car is daily driven. I am generally able to park both vehicles on the street very near one another. I have had a car break in when the car was parked in a different area, not that any area is safe from a$$holes. Whether or not you're using a vehicle to sleep in or just as transportation, you need to keep it legal. If you're stealth vandwelling in a city, the key word is stealth. Not cooking outside the vehicle, not showering outside, not setting up awnings. And not in a giant RV. Nothing bigger than a commercial van that fits in a city environment. Which will also aid fuel economy, the topic of this video.