How to Reduce your Carbon Footprint with your RV
If you happen to be a frequent RVer with a strong passion for the great outdoors, you might find yourself looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Fortunately, there are many unique ways to keep our planet happy and healthy. You can start by adopting as many eco-friendly habits as possible when it comes to RVing.
Here at Allan Dale Trailers & RVs, we’ve gathered up some tips on how to go green in your RV. For more information, swing by one of our dealership locations today. You can find us in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.
Your Rig
As you might’ve guessed, the most impactful aspect of camping is the rig itself. You cannot avoid the fact that towing a camper or driving around in an RV is going to guzzle up a substantial amount of gas. There’s also the construction process and materials used in manufacturing to consider. The first step to creating a greener RV camping experience is to choose an environmentally-friendly rig. You’ll want to look for small, lightweight models. These models require fewer building materials, which means more resources left on the earth. As an added bonus, you won’t burn through as much fuel when you’re headed to your destination.
Until the concept of an electric RV is fully developed and on the market, you’ll need old-fashioned gasoline or diesel. The best way to be greener is to use less fuel on the road, which also results in filling up less often. If your model runs on diesel, consider looking into biodiesel. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Regardless of what type of RV you drive, you should aim to keep it and your tow vehicle (if applicable) well maintained and fully functional. If any one part of your unit is underperforming, it can affect how efficiently the rig rungs as a whole. Routine tune-ups and maintenance checks should be high on your priority list as you prepare to travel. This is something best left to the professionals, so be sure to visit Allan Dale Trailers & RVs for service before you embark on your next journey.
Boondocking
Boondocking, often known as dry camping, is a type of RVing in which you won’t be connected to a running water supply or electric grid. Many people don’t forgo these luxuries altogether, but at least try to use a limited supply of water and power. This helps you save some money as well as the environment. As an added bonus, you’ll also be much closer to some of the most amazing views Mother Nature has to offer. Just remember, boondocking requires a different type of prep. You’ll need specialized appliances, safety precautions, and regulation research.
Solar Panels
There are plenty of alternative energy sources you can seek out that are great choices for the environment, such as solar panels. These are easy to install on the roof of your camper and provide you with cleaner, cheaper energy. This is especially useful for those camping in sunnier parts of the country. However, keep in mind that not everyone reaps the financial benefits of solar panels. You should always consult an expert about your RVing plans to determine if solar panels are the right choice for you.
More Green Tips
If you’re eager for more green tips, don’t forget that some of the biggest impacts are the result of small changes. Recycling and reusing your materials will always have a big impact on your carbon footprint. There are more ways to make a difference, though. For example, switch out halogen light bulbs for LEDs and always try to use energy-efficient appliances. Make an effort to avoid unnecessary amounts of disposable items. You can also use RV-friendly toilet paper.
Your driving and parking habits also play a big role in how fuel efficient and eco-friendly your trailer is. Avoid slamming on the breaks and pumping the accelerator. This is not only harmful to the environment but also results in more frequent fill-ups. More importantly, these driving habits are unsafe. Take it easy on the road while aiming to conserve as much fuel as you can. In regards to parking, try to find a spot that’ll reduce the amount of energy you need to use to regulate the interior temperature. During the summer, you should look for shaded areas.
When you’re ready to start shopping for an environmentally-friendly camper, be sure to visit us at Allan Dale Trailers & RVs. We offer two convenient locations in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.