And I always thought that green and RVing didn’t mix. Well, this is no longer the case. As it turns out you can actually save energy by going RVing.
Any RV uses a lot less electricity, gas and water than an average household. Anyone who has ever slept in a trailer or an RV knows that usually it is natural to have shorter showers, use less hot water, cook simpler meals and in general try to preserve the precious propane in your tank. The square footage of an RV is also a lot smaller than that of a house, so you use less lights and less heat to keep it comfortable.
But there are also other ways to minimize your impact on the environment:
1. Do not drive for long distances: simply stay close to home. Try to stick to the same place for as long as possible. This way you will not use so much gas.
If you have your favourite park, with long time friends always waiting for you there, park your RV for good and become a seasonal camper.
2. If you absolutely necessary to drive far away, read the manual for your RV and drive only within the recommended speed limit. Driving faster uses a lot more gas. Also driving in a hilly terrain will use more gas.
3. Use only biodegradable cleaners. Although some parks have full sewer systems, your waste water will eventually end up in the environment one way or another. Nowadays it it so easy to find all kinds of green cleaners at discount prices that there are really no excuses. You can order Green All Purpose Cleaners
, Organic Mold Removal Products
and even 100% Organic Rust Removers
in advance an be set for the next season.
Other tips could be used for RVing just as well as for tent camping. They boil down to leave no trace principles, such as:
4. Do not litter and take away all your garbage with you. Dispose of it in the designated places.
5. Do not disturb the wildlife or your neighbours. Just because you have a big shiny RV doesn’t mean you are any better than your neighbour sleeping in a tiny tent. They need some peace and quiet as well. I can’t count how many times I have seen this scenario (sorry, I am not saying that this is you!) when the guys in a brand new RV try to show off and behave like kings of the hill, making lots of noise till somebody complains to the park office.
Just use your common sense and plan your trip well. If you need help with your planning and preparation Woodall’s guides are an excellent start. Find the Latest RV-Related Books at Woodall's Bookstore!
