When it comes to RV travel in the US, petrol consumption is a really important consideration (or ‘gas’ as it’s more commonly referred to in the US) Having a good idea of how much fuel your RV will consume in advance will go a long way to helping your road trip run smoother, avoiding any unexpected costs and bumps in the road. 
 

Here we delve into the typical mileage of RVs in the US, and give an overview of how this compares to current fuel costs in the UK.

Typical Mileage of RVs in the US

RV fuel efficiencies vary considerably based on a range of factors such as the size, weight and engine capacity of the vehicle, as well as where the vehicle is being driven and the speed at which it’s travelling. RVs typically fall into 3 main categories: Class A, Class B and Class C, based on specifications such as size. A full breakdown of the difference between these can be found in our guide ‘What’s the difference between an RV, a campervan and a motorhome?’. 

In general, the following consumption estimates apply: 

Class A motorhome fuel consumption 

Class As are the largest and heaviest RV types,typically weighing between 20,000 and 50,000 pounds (9,000 to 22,700 kilograms). These vehicles can usually achieve around 8-10 miles per gallon (mpg) of fuel. 

How much does it cost to fill a Class A motorhome with petrol?

Given fuel prices in the US are currently averaging at $1.03 per litre (or £0.81), this means that filling a Class A motorhome would cost around $312 (the equivalent of around £245) on average.

Fuel consumption of Class C motorhomes

Class C RVs are generally much smaller, but still offer plenty of living space and can sleep between 4 and 6 people pretty comfortably. These vehicles tend to weigh between 10,000 and 14,000lb (or 4,500-6,300kg). Given their slightly smaller size, class Cs can achieve slightly better mileage, usually between 10 and 14 mpg. 

How much does it cost to fill a Class C RV with petrol?

On average, filling up a Class C motorhome would cost around $214 (or £168). Cruise America only rents and sells Class C motorhomes and it’s important to check local petrol prices along your route so you have an idea of how much you will be looking at spending on your journey.  With petrol prices coming down across the country each week, cruising in one of our motorhomes can work out cheaper than taking a flight within the US.

Class B motorhome fuel consumption

Class B motorhomes (or campervans) are the smallest motorhome type, ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 pounds which is the equivalent of 2,700 to 3,600 kilograms. As expected, Class B motorhomes tend to have the best fuel efficiency of the three, averaging at approximately 18-25 mpg. 

How much does a Class B RV cost to fuel?

Filling a typical class B motorhome fuel tank would set you back approximately $93 (or £73).

Cost of filling an RV with petrol when travelling in the US

All in all, familiarising yourself with fuel consumption costs and requirements of an RV is an integral part of planning a safe and enjoyable trip. We hope this overview of petrol costs for RVs and motorhomes in the US has proved useful! And we wish you all the best on any journey you embark on! 

 

All averages are based on fuel prices correct as of 23rd June 2023. Given that these fluctuate regularly, it’s important to check the most up-to-date fuel prices when planning your own fuel budget. It’s also important to bear in mind that fuel prices can vary considerably depending on the state you’re in, the specific petrol station (or ‘gas station’) you’re filling up at and more.

Costs of filling an RV were based on the following average RV gas tank sizes:

• Class A: 80 US gallons (302.8 litres)

• Class B: 24 US gallons (90.8 litres)

• Class C: 55 US gallons (208.2 litres)

USD to GBP exchange rate correct as of 23rd June 2023