As we all know, fuel prices can be unpredictable. But motorhoming remains a great way to get out there and enjoy the scenery, and to spend time with family and friends. Here’s what several FMCA members had to say in response to the question:
What strategy can you suggest to keep motorhomers on the road despite rising fuel costs?
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My husband and I have a rewards credit card with our local bank, and we charge most of our purchases during the month. Once we have enough points for a decent amount, we order a gift card through the rewards program, anywhere in the amount of $200 or larger, and we use the gift card for diesel fuel for our motorhome. Right now, we get to camp only once a month with our FMCA chapter, the Sun Wheelers, and we have an awesome time!
Jim & Susan Burke, F371056
Lakeland, Florida
Slow down! The formula for aerodynamic drag squares the velocity, which means drag increases as the square of speed. We get between 8.5 and 9.5 mpg with our ’08 Ellipse, towing our car. We drive between 55 and 60 mph and enjoy the slower pace. If it works for us, it’ll work for you.
Robert & Sandra Swanson, F401013
Box Elder, South Dakota
Instead of planning a few “big ticket” trips, use FMCA’s Association Calendar to pick out a series of shorter trips, in conjunction with chapter rallies and other special events. And don’t stop with the nearest chapters: expand your search to chapters in adjacent FMCA areas. You’ll probably find some enjoyable rallies and events that won’t require two fuel-ups every day to get there!
Michael Canode, F13059s
Columbus, Ohio
One of the best ways we have proven to ourselves to keep on the road despite rising fuel costs is to keep our speed between 55 and 60 mph. This is a definite benefit, as, in our experience, it will increase fuel economy by 1 to 1 1/2 miles per gallon with a gas engine. This savings adds up with the miles we travel in our coach, since we are full-timers. And, besides, it is safer! Happy travels.
Eric & Bernadette Berland, F270976
Kissimmee, Florida
Here are some ideas that work for us. Drive fewer miles. Stay in membership parks when possible. Extend visits to take advantage of weekly or monthly rates. Eat out less. Shop discount grocery stores when possible. Adjust menus to use what sale items you find. Buy books at library sales; most have some on sale at all times — from a shelf to a roomful.
Lang Secrest, F187589
FMCA Mail Forwarding
We are full-timing retirees who spend our time touring the western United States. When budgeting for our travels, we determine where we want to go and then determine cost-effectiveness versus what we want to see or accomplish. In today’s economy it often makes sense to “Go Shorter,” “Go Slower,” or even “Go Cheaper.” We like to spend our winters in Southern California or Arizona and our summers on the Washington coast. We could “Go Shorter” by going to the southern Oregon coast rather than traveling the extra mileage to Washington. Another option would be to stay in the Southern California deserts instead of going to Arizona.
Someone once said, “The best fuel economy tool is one’s right foot.” Slow down and enjoy the scenery. An RV gets substantially better mileage at 55 mph than it does at 70 mph. And you get to see more of the countryside.
“Going Cheaper” simply means looking for small (and less expensive) parks with fewer amenities instead of the resorts that provide more for more money. Also, staying in one place longer is more cost-effective than moving every few days or weeks. A plus is that you get to experience more of the local color.
Van & Nancy Pennington, F378345
Florence, Oregon
Future questions:
1. What do you do as a family, group, or FMCA chapter to celebrate the summertime holidays during a motorhome trip?
2. What was the main reason you decided to buy your first motorhome?
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