How to Save Money on Fuel During Long Aussie RV Trips

Fuel is one of the biggest expenses you’ll face when exploring Australia by RV. With the vast distances between towns, varying fuel prices across states, and the sheer weight of your vehicle, it’s easy to see your fuel budget blow out—especially on long-haul routes like the Stuart Highway or across the Nullarbor Plain.

But here’s the good news: fuel costs are one of the most controllable parts of your RV travel budget. With the right planning, smart driving habits, helpful apps, and good vehicle choices, you can cut your fuel bill significantly—without compromising on your travel experience. In fact, becoming fuel-savvy often leads to a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable road trip.

This guide is tailored specifically for RV travellers in Australia. Whether you’re a Grey Nomad chasing the Dry Season, a young couple hiring a campervan for the East Coast, or a family on a budget doing the Big Lap, you’ll find practical advice here to help stretch every drop of fuel further.

We’ll cover everything from route planning and fuel-efficient driving to the best apps and real-world saving tips from seasoned Aussie travellers. Let’s dive in and help you get the most kilometres for your cash.

Why Fuel Costs Matter in Aussie RV Travel

When you’re touring Australia in an RV, fuel is not just another line item in your budget—it can easily become one of your largest recurring expenses. With some parts of the country hundreds of kilometres apart and petrol stations few and far between, understanding your fuel consumption and costs is crucial for long-term travel success.

Long Distances Between Towns and Attractions

Australia’s vast geography means that RV travellers often drive thousands of kilometres between destinations. Whether you’re heading from Melbourne to Darwin or doing the Big Lap around the country, you’re covering massive ground. Some stretches, like the Nullarbor or the Barkly Highway, may not offer fuel for over 300–500 km—and in those remote areas, fuel prices soar.

High Fuel Price Variability

Fuel prices in Australia vary significantly based on:

• Location: Remote or Outback towns often charge 40–80 cents more per litre than metro areas

• State: Some states like QLD offer fuel subsidies; others like WA operate on price cycle systems

• Timing: City fuel prices fluctuate weekly—buying on the wrong day can cost you extra over time

This means savvy fuel planning isn’t just about quantity—it’s also about when and where you fill up.

Diesel vs Petrol: The Aussie RV Landscape

Most Australian motorhomes and larger RVs are diesel-powered, and for good reason:

• Diesel engines offer better fuel efficiency, especially for heavy loads and long-distance driving

• Diesel is widely available in both cities and Outback regions

• However, diesel prices have crept up in recent years, closing the gap with petrol

Understanding which engine type suits your travel style, terrain, and trip duration can lead to significant savings over time.

How Much Do RV Travellers Spend on Fuel?

The average fuel consumption for RVs in Australia varies:

• Small campervans (2-berth): 10–13 L/100 km

• Mid-sized motorhomes: 13–16 L/100 km

• Large Class C RVs or 4WD campers: 15–20+ L/100 km

For example, on a 5,000 km trip around QLD:

• A small camper might spend $900–1,100 on fuel

• A larger diesel motorhome could burn through $1,500+

With petrol and diesel prices averaging $1.90–$2.30 per litre (as of 2025), every litre counts—especially when travelling full-time or across great distances.

Fuel is unavoidable, but unnecessary overspending is not. The next sections will walk you through how to make smarter vehicle choices, drive more efficiently, and use tools to slash your fuel costs across every kilometre.

Choose the Right RV for Better Fuel Economy

Your choice of RV can dramatically influence how much fuel you’ll burn on the road. Weight, engine size, aerodynamics, and drivetrain all contribute to overall fuel efficiency—and the wrong setup can cost you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars over a long journey. If you’re still in the decision or rental phase, this section will help you make a fuel-smart choice from the start.

Smaller RVs = Lower Fuel Burn

In general, the smaller and lighter the RV, the better the fuel economy. A 2-berth campervan (based on a Toyota HiAce or similar) typically uses 10–13 litres per 100 km, while a full-size Class C motorhome may chew through 15–20+ litres per 100 km.

If you don’t need a shower/toilet onboard, or if you’re only travelling as a couple or solo, a smaller campervan will save you hundreds in fuel on any trip over 2,000 km.

Diesel vs Petrol in Australian RVs

• Diesel RVs are more fuel-efficient over long distances and handle heavy loads better. Diesel engines generally last longer and provide better torque for towing and hills.

• Petrol RVs tend to be cheaper to buy or rent upfront but may be less efficient, especially in larger vehicles.

Diesel is the dominant fuel type for most large RVs in Australia—and in remote areas, diesel is often the only fuel available. Unless you’re driving a small van, diesel is typically the safer and more cost-effective choice for long-haul Aussie travel.

Manual vs Automatic Transmission

While most modern rentals are automatic, manual transmission vehicles are often more fuel-efficient—especially in rural and hilly terrain. If you’re comfortable driving stick and can find a well-priced manual RV, it may offer up to 10% better fuel economy.

Aerodynamics and Accessories

A tall, boxy RV with a rooftop cargo pod, solar panels, or bike rack creates more wind resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Likewise, towing a trailer or boat adds weight and drag.

Tips:

• Keep roof loads to a minimum

• Remove unused accessories

• Use aerodynamic solar panels or low-profile pods

• If towing, ensure your trailer is balanced and lightweight

4WD Campers vs 2WD Vans

If you plan to explore remote national parks or tackle unsealed tracks, a 4WD camper offers access—but at a fuel cost. 4WD vehicles use more fuel, especially when loaded. Unless you’re going deep into the Kimberley or Cape York, a 2WD RV is more economical and perfectly suitable for most major destinations.

In short, the best RV for saving fuel is one that matches your needs—not more. Bigger is not always better when you’re paying per kilometre.

Plan Your Route for Maximum Fuel Efficiency

Smart route planning is one of the easiest ways to cut fuel costs without sacrificing the joy of RV travel. By choosing roads, regions, and schedules that align with your fuel goals, you can minimise unnecessary kilometres, reduce engine strain, and avoid paying top dollar at remote fuel stops. A little forethought goes a long way when your tank is 80 litres deep.

Avoid Unnecessary Elevation & Rough Roads

Driving through mountainous terrain, sandy tracks, or corrugated Outback roads dramatically increases fuel consumption due to:

• Higher engine load

• Frequent braking and gear changes

• Poor traction on uneven surfaces

Whenever possible, choose sealed, flat highways—especially if you’re in a heavy motorhome. For example, skipping steep highland routes in the NSW Snowy Mountains or VIC Alpine regions in favour of smoother coastal roads can result in 20–30% fuel savings over long trips.

Group Your Destinations Logically

Map your trip so that you’re not backtracking or zigzagging between locations. A loop itinerary is more fuel-efficient than a scattered route.

For example:

• Instead of Melbourne → Sydney → Adelaide → Brisbane

• Try Melbourne → Adelaide → Sydney → Brisbane (smooth eastward progression)

Also, combine side trips—if you’re near a national park or town worth visiting, do it while you’re in the region instead of doubling back later.

Use Navigation Tools to Optimise Travel

Apps like Google Maps and Waze can help identify:

• The shortest routes

• Roads with fewer stops or traffic lights

• Road closures or congestion that could waste fuel

Use offline maps when travelling in signal-poor zones like the Outback. Download them before heading into remote areas to avoid relying on mobile coverage for navigation.

Plan Refuelling Around Cheap Zones

Some regions consistently offer cheaper fuel (e.g. metro areas, regional centres), while others—like remote roadhouses—can be 40–80 cents more per litre. Know your route and:

• Fill up before entering expensive fuel zones

• Use apps (more in the next section) to monitor upcoming prices

• Carry extra fuel if regulations and conditions allow

Incorporate Free or Low-Cost Camping En Route

When route planning, include WikiCamps or CamperMate filters to identify:

• Free rest stops

• Donation-based community camps

• Low-cost council sites

Not only will you save on accommodation, but you’ll avoid detours to expensive holiday parks or long drives off-route just to find somewhere to park.

By planning smarter—not just driving smarter—you’ll reduce your overall distance, engine load, and the number of expensive fuel top-ups. That adds up to real savings over weeks or months on the road.

Drive Smart: Techniques That Save Fuel

Once you’re on the road, the way you drive has a huge impact on your fuel usage. Adopting smarter, smoother driving habits can reduce your fuel consumption by 10–30%—which adds up fast when you’re clocking thousands of kilometres across Australia.

Maintain a Steady Speed

Frequent acceleration and braking use more fuel than maintaining a consistent pace. The ideal cruising speed for most RVs on highways is between 90 and 100 km/h. Going faster not only burns more fuel but can also strain your engine and tires.

Cruise control is your friend on flat, open roads. It helps keep your speed consistent, especially in country areas like the Eyre Highway or Stuart Highway where road conditions allow smooth cruising.

Avoid Excessive Idling

Letting your RV idle while parked wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopping for longer than 60 seconds, switch the engine off. This is particularly important at:

• Rest stops

• Fuel stations

• Campground check-in queues

Modern engines don’t need to warm up for long periods, so there’s no need to idle at the start of the day either.

Accelerate Smoothly & Brake Gradually

Harsh acceleration and sudden braking are fuel killers. Instead:

• Accelerate smoothly, especially from traffic lights or roundabouts

• Anticipate upcoming turns and stops so you can coast gradually instead of slamming the brakes

• Drive with a “look ahead” mentality to maintain momentum without aggressive inputs

These small adjustments significantly reduce fuel burn over the course of a long journey.

Check Tyre Pressure Regularly

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tyre pressure:

• Before long driving days

• After sudden temperature changes

• When moving between elevation zones (e.g., coast to highlands)

Keep tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI—usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your vehicle manual.

Distribute Weight Evenly

An unbalanced or overloaded RV uses more fuel. Tips:

• Store heavier items low and close to the axle

• Avoid carrying water tanks completely full unless needed

• Don’t haul gear you won’t use (extra chairs, unused bikes, etc.)

• Remove roof racks or boxes if empty to reduce wind drag

Use Air Conditioning Wisely

Running your air conditioner full blast can increase fuel consumption, especially when climbing hills or in stop-start traffic. When safe, use window ventilation or set your A/C to eco or recirculate mode.

By fine-tuning your driving style, you’ll extend the range of every tank—and enjoy a smoother, more relaxed road trip as a bonus.

Use Fuel Price Comparison Apps

Australia’s fuel prices can vary wildly—even within a few kilometres. The difference between filling up in the right suburb or town could save you 20–50 cents per litre, which adds up to hundreds of dollars over the course of an extended RV journey. Luckily, fuel price apps make it easier than ever to find the cheapest bowser near you.

1. Fuel Map Australia (by GasBuddy)

One of the most popular free apps for fuel tracking in Australia. It uses both user-submitted data and official pricing from state databases (like WA and NSW) to show live fuel prices nearby.

Features:

• Map and list views

• Diesel and unleaded filters

• Trip cost estimation tools

• Useful in both cities and regional areas

It also works offline—helpful for remote driving if you’ve preloaded maps.

2. PetrolSpy

Known for its fast interface and real-time updates, PetrolSpy shows fuel prices at most major stations across Australia. The app crowdsources data and updates frequently.

Benefits:

• Easily compare prices at competing stations nearby

• See price history and trends

• Supports diesel, E10, LPG, and premium fuels

You can also filter for amenities like restrooms, air pumps, and truck stops—useful for RV users.

3. MotorMouth

This app is more focused on metro areas but still offers good price accuracy in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide.

Key points:

• Visual colour-coded maps for quick price comparison

• Reports price cycles (especially useful in WA and VIC)

• Weekly trend forecasts to help you time your refuels

MotorMouth is best for city-based travellers who want to save when starting or ending a trip.

4. Government Fuel Price Sites

Some states have official websites and apps that display verified fuel prices:

• NSW FuelCheck

• QLD FuelCheck

• WA FuelWatch

• Tasmania Fuel Check

These platforms are often the most accurate for up-to-date fuel pricing in their respective states. Bookmark them if you’re travelling locally.

Tips for Using Fuel Apps Effectively

• Check prices daily in areas with large fluctuations (especially in WA and metro cities)

• When approaching a regional area, compare towns 50–100 km apart—some inland towns are significantly cheaper than coastal ones

• Don’t chase every cent if it requires long detours—factor in the drive cost

• Pair fuel app usage with route planning tools like Google Maps for optimal timing

Using these apps consistently could save you $300–600 across a full lap of Australia—just by avoiding overpriced fuel stations and topping up where it makes the most sense.

Maintain Your RV for Peak Fuel Performance

Even the most fuel-efficient driving habits and route planning can only do so much if your RV isn’t properly maintained. A well-serviced RV engine runs smoother, burns fuel more efficiently, and reduces long-term mechanical wear. Preventative maintenance may seem like a chore, but it pays off big time in fuel savings over long Australian road trips.

Regular Engine Servicing

Routine engine maintenance is essential for optimal fuel consumption. Make sure you:

• Change engine oil and oil filters on schedule

• Replace air filters regularly—clogged filters reduce airflow and burn more fuel

• Replace fuel filters to avoid poor fuel injection

• Get periodic spark plug inspections for petrol engines

• Book a full service every 10,000–15,000 km or before long journeys

A clean, well-tuned engine can improve fuel efficiency by up to 15%.

Keep Tyres Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which makes your engine work harder. Even being 5 PSI below the recommended level can cost you significantly over thousands of kilometres.

Check tyre pressure:

• Before each driving week

• When there are big changes in temperature or altitude

• Before long Outback or coastal stretches

Always inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, adjusting for full load if carrying heavy gear.

Reduce Weight and Clutter

Weight is the enemy of fuel efficiency. Many travellers overload their RV with gear “just in case” and forget that every extra kilogram makes the engine burn harder.

Fuel-saving decluttering tips:

• Empty grey and black water tanks unless needed for travel

• Avoid carrying full fresh water unless boondocking

• Store only essential tools and supplies

• Offload unused sports gear or duplicate cooking equipment

Even shedding 50–100 kg can make a noticeable difference on long climbs or windy highways.

Minimise Wind Drag

Poor aerodynamics sap fuel, especially at highway speeds. Most RVs already have the aerodynamics of a brick, so anything added to the roof or rear makes it worse.

Reduce drag by:

• Removing empty roof boxes or storage pods

• Packing down retractable awnings when not in use

• Avoiding unnecessary external gear like ladders, surfboards, and bikes (unless used regularly)

• Towing only when necessary

When combined with reduced weight, improved aerodynamics can deliver 5–10% better fuel economy.

Wheel Alignment and Suspension

Misaligned wheels and worn suspension can lead to uneven tyre wear, poor handling, and—yes—higher fuel consumption. If your RV drifts slightly to one side or you notice steering vibration, get a wheel alignment check at your next service.

Maintaining your RV isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about ensuring you get the most distance for every litre of fuel. Think of servicing and weight management as investments that pay off in every kilometre you drive.

Refuel Tactically: When & Where to Fill Up

Knowing where—and just as importantly, when—to refuel can make a major difference to your overall fuel budget during an RV trip around Australia. While fuel prices can’t be avoided, smart refuelling habits can help you avoid peak pricing, remote rip-offs, and city price cycles that hurt the wallet.

Avoid Remote Refuelling When Possible

Remote roadhouses in the Outback, Northern WA, NT, or inland QLD often charge 30–80 cents more per litre due to supply challenges and low competition.

Tips to avoid inflated remote fuel prices:

• Fill up at the last major town before entering remote zones (e.g. Katherine, Port Augusta, Charters Towers)

• Plan legs so you never arrive at a remote area running low

• Carry extra jerry cans (if legal and safe) to top up from cheaper fill-ups

Only refuel in remote spots if absolutely necessary—or take just enough to reach the next affordable station.

Refuel on the Right Days

In many metro areas (especially Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth), fuel prices follow a weekly cycle. Prices rise and fall predictably throughout the week.

Best days to refuel (on average):

• Tuesday or Wednesday: Often the cheapest days

• Friday to Sunday: Usually the most expensive (up to 20–30 cents more per litre)

Use fuel apps and local trends to track cycles—filling up mid-week in cities can save you significantly over the long haul.

Take Advantage of Supermarket Discounts

Major grocery chains offer fuel vouchers when you spend a certain amount in-store. For RVers stocking up on supplies, these can provide easy discounts at partner service stations.

• Woolworths + EG Ampol: 4 cents off per litre with $30+ spend

• Coles + Shell: 4 cents off with $30+ spend; stackable with Flybuys

• Rewards Programs: Use Woolworths Rewards, Flybuys, or other cards for bonus points and fuel deals

If you’re already grocery shopping in town, using the attached fuel voucher station is an easy win.

Use Loyalty and Fleet Cards

Some fuel stations offer loyalty programs or fleet cards that deliver ongoing discounts, including:

• Shell Card

• BP Plus Card

• AmpolCard

These are especially useful for full-time travellers or those doing the Big Lap, as the cents-per-litre savings stack up fast over thousands of kilometres.

Fill Up Strategically in Border Regions

Fuel prices sometimes drop just before or after state borders due to differing fuel levies. For example:

• NSW–QLD border towns like Tweed Heads or Coolangatta often have competitive pricing

• SA–VIC border zones near Mount Gambier or Portland may offer better deals than inland towns

Keep an eye on fuel app maps near borders and time your fill-ups for the better-priced side when possible.

Fuel costs may be unavoidable, but they are highly manageable with tactical thinking. A little planning at the pump goes a long way toward keeping your fuel budget under control on the open road.

Alternative Fuel Options & Long-Term Choices

While traditional diesel and petrol RVs still dominate the Australian road trip scene, an increasing number of travellers are exploring alternative fuel sources and long-term strategies to reduce both their carbon footprint and ongoing fuel costs. While not all options are mainstream yet, the evolving landscape offers a glimpse into the future of economical and sustainable RV travel.

Solar Power for Auxiliary Systems

Solar panels won’t power your engine, but they can significantly reduce your need to idle for charging, run a generator, or pay for powered sites. By using solar to handle:

• Fridge

• Interior lighting

• Fans and vents

• Phones and laptops

• Water pumps

…you reduce the need for engine-powered electricity, which indirectly saves fuel (especially for those idling to top up batteries).

Tips:

• Install a 200–400W solar setup with a lithium battery bank

• Use solar-compatible appliances (12V instead of 240V)

• Park for maximum sun exposure during daytime breaks

For full-time travellers, solar power pays off quickly—both in fuel and campground fees.

LPG Conversions

Some petrol RVs, particularly older models and vans, can be fitted with dual-fuel LPG systems, which allow switching between petrol and LPG.

Pros:

• LPG is often 30–40% cheaper per litre

• Dual-fuel systems allow flexibility if one fuel is unavailable

• Lower emissions compared to petrol

Cons:

• Initial conversion cost ($2,000–$4,000)

• Slightly lower fuel efficiency (more litres per 100km than petrol)

• Limited LPG access in remote Australia (must plan ahead)

LPG is best suited to metro and eastern-state travellers, or those doing shorter loops rather than remote exploration.

Hybrid and Electric RVs: On the Horizon

Australia’s EV infrastructure is growing, but fully electric RVs are still in the early stages of adoption. Limited charging stations in regional and Outback areas make long-haul travel difficult for now.

That said:

• Small electric campervans are emerging for short, urban-style trips

• Plug-in hybrids could offer the best of both worlds in the next decade

• Battery storage for off-grid living (not propulsion) is becoming common

Keep an eye on manufacturers like Jayco, Winnebago, and Mercedes as they experiment with EV drivetrains for RVs in the coming years.

Portable Fuel Storage: Worth It?

Carrying jerry cans or long-range fuel tanks can be a fuel-saving strategy—but only when used wisely.

When it makes sense:

• Crossing long Outback routes (e.g., Plenty Highway, Tanami Track)

• Avoiding high-cost roadhouse fill-ups

• Topping up after cheap bulk buys in regional centres

What to consider:

• Legal limits on carrying fuel in certain areas

• Safe storage (ventilation, mounting, leak protection)

• Impact of extra weight on overall efficiency

Always use approved fuel containers and store externally if possible.

While diesel and petrol will remain dominant for now, investing in solar, reducing power needs, and watching emerging tech can future-proof your RV lifestyle—and lower your long-term fuel spend.

Budgeting Tools to Track Fuel Use on the Road

Keeping track of your fuel spend is essential for managing your travel budget, especially on extended RV adventures. When you monitor fuel usage in real time, it becomes easier to identify patterns, adjust routes, and refine your spending habits. Thankfully, there are plenty of tools available to make this simple and stress-free.

1. Fuelio (Android Only)

Fuelio is a popular, free app designed specifically to track fuel expenses, fuel economy, and vehicle maintenance.

Key features:

• Track cost per litre, kilometres driven, litres added

• Visualise fuel economy trends (L/100km)

• Export trip reports for budgeting

• Supports multiple vehicles (great if you tow)

Fuelio is offline-friendly and works well for travellers doing the Big Lap or heading into mobile blackspots.

2. Road Trip (iOS)

For iPhone users, Road Trip is a powerful app with detailed statistics and expense logging.

Benefits include:

• Cost-per-kilometre breakdown

• Track fill-ups, services, and parts

• Insightful graphs for long-term travel

• Sync across multiple devices (ideal for couples)

Though it’s a paid app, its level of detail makes it a favourite among serious overlanders and long-distance RVers.

3. Spreadsheets or Travel Budget Trackers

If you prefer manual tracking, a basic spreadsheet (Excel or Google Sheets) can also work well.

What to log:

• Date of refuel

• Kilometres driven

• Litres added

• Total cost per stop

• Average cost per 100 km

• Total trip distance and spend

Bonus: you can customise categories, add notes on regions with high/low prices, and budget for future trips based on past data.

4. Camper-Specific Expense Trackers

Apps like Trip Budget Planner, CamperMate, and WikiCamps allow you to track all travel expenses, including fuel, campsites, food, and maintenance—giving you a full picture of where your money is going.

These are ideal if you want to manage your entire trip budget in one place.

Why Track Fuel at All?

Tracking fuel:

• Encourages fuel-saving habits

• Helps you identify expensive regions or routes

• Aids in choosing the best-performing RV or van for future trips

• Lets you compare budget vs actual spend

For full-time travellers, long-term data helps refine your vehicle setup, driving strategy, and overall travel rhythm.

With just 2 minutes per fill-up, these tools give you actionable insights that can lead to hundreds in savings by the end of your trip.

Conclusion

Fuel costs may be a constant companion on any RV trip around Australia, but that doesn’t mean they have to drain your travel fund. With a thoughtful combination of planning, driving habits, tech tools, and RV setup, you can significantly reduce how much you spend at the pump—without cutting back on adventure.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior doing coastal escapes or a Grey Nomad chasing the sun around the Big Lap, mastering fuel efficiency helps you go further for less. From choosing the right-sized RV and using the best fuel apps to tracking your consumption and sticking to smooth, well-planned routes, the opportunities to save are everywhere.

And don’t forget: every litre you save means more budget for what really matters—exploring national parks, enjoying remote beaches, and soaking up the freedom that RV travel in Australia is all about.

Hit the road smart, drive steady, and keep an eye on your tank—and you’ll see just how far a little fuel awareness can take you.