How to save fuel with a bigger caravan

Given the expanding fuel crunch, we recently explored the merits of smaller ‘vans to curb the pain at the bowser. However, small caravans are not the answer for everyone.

Another way to look at the problem is to stick with the ‘van size you want, but not get drawn into buying a ‘van heavier than you really need.

We did a little exercise comparing the weights of a selection of 20ft caravans listed on caravancampingsales.

Focusing on recognised Australian-made brands, we found there was more than 1000kg difference between the heaviest and lightest ‘vans in the category. The lightest vans were less than 2200kg and the heaviest was more than 3200kg.

Even if we took out the extremes, we would be looking at a difference of 2300kg to 3000kg.

The lighter ‘vans can be classified as touring models, and the heavier vans as off-grid/off-road.

The touring models tend to have a more basic undercarriage with a lighter construction chassis, leaf spring suspension, 15in wheels with all-terrain tyres and one spare wheel.

Electrical systems usually include one small battery, one or two solar panels and small or no inverters/DC to DC chargers.

Two freshwater tanks and one grey water tank is also typical.

Many tourers don’t have a front toolbox, but if they do, it will often be quite small. Rear bumpers are usually basic. Internally, appliances tend to be smaller, and there are fewer of them.

Of course, the heavier off-grid vans are the opposite. Undercarriages boast heavier-duty chassis and are more likely to be hot-dip galvanised, which adds significant weight.

Bulky trailing arm independent suspension components also add to the bulk; as do bigger wheels with chunky off-road oriented tyres, and two spare wheels.

Several batteries and up to six solar (glass) panels also eat into the payload, as do larger capacity inverters and DC to DC chargers.

It’s not unusual to see three 90L water tanks on heavy off-gridders, plus a big metal toolbox on an extended A-frame.

We’re also increasingly seeing off-road ‘vans loaded up at the other end with rear ‘toolboxes’ or platform bars incorporating drawers, jerry holders and wood boxes.

There’s also often a full smorgasbord of weighty appliances, including a big fridge, washing machine, induction cooktop and diesel heater. Externally, a slide-out kitchen is common, and perhaps a second fridge.

We can see that the touring ‘vans and off-grid ‘vans are very different beasts.

With the latter, all the extra stuff delivers a price as well as weight penalty. The lighter touring ‘vans in our list sit in the $75-$85,000 range, while the heavier off-grid ‘vans are closer to $170-180K.

The question is how much, if any, of this extra weight and cost do you really need?

Of course, there are many other ‘vans positioned between these lower and higher price and weight limits. And when ordering you can choose what features are important to you.

Here are some ballpark numbers for the extra weight involved in selecting various popular upgrades.

Tourer vs Off Grid Weight Gains

Why lighter is better

A lighter caravan has multiple benefits.

Fuel consumption is the hot topic. Heavier caravans require more energy to move, particularly over long distances and in hilly terrain, so even modest weight reductions can translate into meaningful fuel savings.

Our guesstimate is that towing an extra 700kg with a modern diesel ute/SUV could add around 2 litres per 100km to fuel consumption.

Tow vehicles are limited not just by maximum towing capacity, but by Gross Vehicle Mass and Gross Combined Mass. Reducing caravan weight makes it far easier to stay within these limits.
This also translates into more payload available for the tow vehicle, or having the option to use a lower-rated tow vehicle.

Caravan weight also directly affects safety. Heavier combinations require longer stopping distances and place greater demand on braking systems, and are more sensitive to tow vehicle instability from crosswinds or emergency manoeuvres.

Lighter ‘vans improve braking performance and overall control. They improve drivability too, by reducing strain on engines and transmissions, resulting in smoother acceleration and less gear hunting.

Over time, lower weight also reduces stress on tyres, suspension and structural components across both the caravan and the tow vehicle.

How to choose a lighter caravan

Selecting a lighter caravan is about deliberate choices of what features really matter for your application.

Use the weights difference table above as a guide to critically evaluate what features you really need. Look carefully at the specs and talk to dealers and manufacturers about the weight impacts of the options.

If it were me, I would also insist on having my completed ‘van weighed before paying and taking delivery.

Keeping caravan weight down will improve towing safety, make it easier to stay within legal limits, minimise wear and tear on your tow vehicle, and save on purchase price and fuel costs.

Related: Why I downsized to a pod camper