Best Fuel Storage & Gas Saving Tips for Overlanders

It’s no secret. Gas prices have been higher than ever as of late. If you’re taking your vehicle out for camping, off-roading or overlanding, you’ll want the best mileage you can get. 

Without mentioning politics here, (this blog is for overlanding insights only) we’ll give you some best-practice fuel-saving tips. 

Pack it Light, Pack it Tight

The heavier your rig is, the more pressure you put on the engine to get you from point A to point B. Take only what you need - the must-have items - and leave the non-essentials if you can spare it. 

Consolidate some of your overlanding accessories and gear by getting equipment and a storage solution that is more ergonomic. Gear that works like a Swiss army knife is best; that way you'll have everything you need easily packaged into a single item set. 

We all agree. Rooftop tents are cool. But there’s no way around it. They add extra weight, and that means poorer mileage. Try something lightweight instead, like a hammock.  

Drive Better…Just Do It

Try your best to do the following:

• Use the gas sparingly (AKA - don’t floor it)
• No more rapid accelerations and rapid stops
• Don’t come to a complete stop (if you can help it) 
• Don’t idle (if you’re stationary, turn the engine off)
• Drive in a higher gear but don’t lug your engine 

Get Proper Maintenance on Your Overlanding Vehicle

A well-maintained vehicle can save you gas money. Make sure you keep up with oil and fluid changes, up-to-date brake pads, engine tune-ups and other essential repairs. 

With proper maintenance and upkeep means better performance on the road, and a better mpg to boot. 

Inflate the Tires

Typically, overlanders deflate their tires in order to better navigate on boulders, steep hills or rocky, jagged terrain without causing a flat. But if you want better gas mileage, inflate your tires.

Yes. Granted. You're more at risk for a flat. The solution?

Choose to go off-roading instead, or air your tires back down again before traversing any rocky terrain. You don’t want to save on your gas bill just to take time and money searching for a spare tire. 

If your driving a 5th Generation 4Runner and are looking for a quick way to inflate and deflate all four tires at once, consider the Wifey Air System. 

Install Smaller Sized Tires

As you're lowering the weight on your rig, consider lowering the size of your tires. Bigger tires and a bigger lift means poorer mpg. 

Buy Gas Early (On a Monday)

If you can, get ahead of those prices. Wild guess here — but on Mondays, gas seems to be slightly lower.

Keep up with the news on oil; spot the trends and plan ahead. If you see gas is down a bit, make yourself a monthly budget and fill up ahead of time. 

Fuel Storage Canister

Buying a Waivern Jerry Can is a great way to maximize your fuel storage capacity. It’s durable, spill-safe, portable and has an ergonomic design.

Looking for Premier Overlanding Gear, Tools or Accessories in Southwest Missouri? 

Artemis Overland is here to be your resource. We can install your equipment on-site after you purchase with us. If you're unsure what to get, one of our experienced representatives can help. Email or call us today at (417) 501-1190.