If the ongoing fuel costs and supply issues are making you reconsider your next caravan adventure, you’re not alone. Many Australians are now postponing or cancelling their trips, citing fuel shortages, costs, and other travel expenses as the main culprits.
At Crusader Caravans, we want you to know that not all hope is lost, and travelling our great country is still within reach. The key is to travel slower, lighter, and with more efficiency, developing smarter travel plans that make your journey possible.
In this guide, we’ll cover fuel, food, camping, and general running costs, offering useful tips on sustainable travel so you can take control of your next Aussie holiday.
Create a Realistic Travel Budget
As fuel supply slows and everyday living expenses increase, now is the time to be honest about your travel fund. Get the most out of your holiday with a realistic travel budget, starting with these tips.
First, determine how much disposable income you have and how much of it you can afford to spend on your travel. Then, do the maths upfront:
1. Work out your fuel cost per 100 kms
Roughly estimate how much fuel your vehicle uses every 100 kms when towing. If you’re unsure, think about how often you had to refuel on your last trip. An educated guess will do as long as you scale up the costs to give yourself some wriggle room. Once you do, follow this formula:
(Litres used ÷ Kilometres Driven) x 100 = L/100 km
Next, work out your average fuel cost per 100 kms:
Current fuel price x Your rig’s average L/100 km when towing = minimum fuel cost per 100 kms.
Fuel costs are unpredictable and will vary from place to place, so keep an eye on fuel price forecasts for areas you’ll be travelling and readjust your budget accordingly.
2. Include all the big cost buckets
Your budget should also consider other major expenses, such as:
- Tolls
- Caravan park and other site fees
- Food, drinks, snacks, medicines, and hygiene products
- Maintenance and roadside assistance
- Ferries, attractions, tours, and experiences
- Any other necessary expenses along the way
Considering all these in your budget will outline how much money you need to comfortably travel. We also recommend buying non-perishables (drinks, snacks, toilet paper, etc) in bulk before your trip so you don’t run out before you’re home. Don’t go overboard! Keep the extra cash for when you might need it.
3. Plan for the unexpected
Speaking of when you might need a little extra money, be sure to include a buffer in your budget for spikes, shortages, unplanned expenses, or extended stays.
Revisit your insurance policy to ensure you have roadside assistance that also includes your caravan and coverage in remote areas.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEAWAY: A good budget reduces panic buying, unnecessary driving, and last‑minute decisions that waste money and fuel.
Strategic Route and Supply Planning
The idea is to travel smarter, not further, starting with a strategic travel route. Determine where you’re going and how many stops you’ll likely take along the way. Then:
1. Plan for availability and costs
It’s normal to feel uncertain about fuel costs and supply, especially if you’re spending significant time on the road. Apps like Petrol Spy, FuelMap, My NRMA, and RACQ Fuel and Deals help you find service stations nearby and track their prices in real-time.
2. Follow the ‘half-tank rule’
Don’t leave your fuel security to chance—check your route and real-time data before setting off on long drives. That way, you can make sure you have enough petrol and supplies to reach your destination. Where you can, fuel up before your tank drops below half, especially in remote areas where supply pressures hit first.
3. Build reliable corridors
Map which towns are your ‘must-stop’ fuel and supply points and stick to them wherever you can.
4. Reduce unnecessary mileage
Avoiding zig-zagging and back-tracking is another great way to reduce miles and save fuel. Consider grouping your destinations or exploring one region instead of trying to see everywhere at once.
5. Always have a Plan-B
You can’t predict supply shortages, but you can always plan for them. Map alternative routes to bypass disruptions.
6. Avoid the panic
Panic-buying spikes local demand and worsens the distribution struggle for all. Try not to hoard supplies, and only purchase what you need.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEAWAY: Fewer wasted kilometres and less backtracking = lower emissions, less pressure on regional supplies, and a calmer, more enjoyable trip.
Drive Smart: The ‘Efficiency’ Throttle
Towing drastically increases fuel consumption, but adjusting your driving style can help claw costs back. Here’s how:
1. Find a cruising sweet spot
Conserve fuel by travelling at 90-95 km/h on highways. This can help save up to 20% of your fuel consumption, meaning fewer stops and more money in your pocket.
2. Keep a smooth momentum
When driving, accelerate gently and brake slowly to keep consistent momentum. Adopting a ‘sprint and slam’ method is unsafe and burns fuel faster, so be mindful of other road users, look ahead to merge, and slow early to conserve your tank.
3. Turn off cruise control in steep areas
Cruise control is less efficient than a manual throttle when towing on hilly terrain. Manual travel prevents the engine from over-revving, allowing drivers to maintain set speeds. If you’re towing a caravan with a diesel vehicle, try to keep RPM levels between 1,800-2,200 to prevent straining the engine.
4. Minimise idling
The Crusader Caravans rule is ‘more than a minute? Time to quit it’. If you find yourself stopped for longer than 60 seconds at road works or in queues, consider turning your engine off to conserve your tank.
5. Keep a fuel log
Track your fuel consumption as you go to prevent unnecessary detours or breakdowns.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEAWAY: Smoother, slower driving means lower emissions, less brake and tyre wear, and added peace of mind behind the wheel. Always remember to obey speed limits, road conditions, and towing guidelines.
Use Lighter Travel to Your Advantage
Crusader Caravans are made with EcoLite composite panels, already helping you to travel lighter and with greater fuel efficiency. Some other ways to make sure you’re traveling even lighter include:
1. Pack what you need instead of ‘nice-to-haves’
We get it. It’s easy to throw in more than you need. An additional water supply here, four extra pairs of shoes there, but if you have your plan down pat, there’s no reason to pack for ‘just in case.’ Where you can, try to avoid doubling up on things you won’t use and only take the heavy items that are necessary for your travels.
2. Don’t overdo your water supply
If you don’t need a full tank of water for your trip, don’t take a full tank of water. It’ll end up being dead weight that your engine has to pull the entire time you’re away.
3. Cut down on drag
Wind drag is the force of air pushing against a moving object, making it harder to move forward. Little things you can do to reduce drag include:
- Close all windows and vents when travelling high speeds
- Remove roof racks and bike racks if you aren’t going to use them
- Minimise the space between the tow vehicle and the caravan, where it’s safe to do so
4. Know your caravan’s numbers
Always travel to your caravan’s specs. Know your TARE, ATM, and ball-weight before you leave. This will help keep you safe on the road, lower your fuel consumption, and keep costs low.
5. Adjust your CrusadAir Airbag Suspension
Levelling your rig provides comfort and helps protect your caravan’s chassis from damage.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEWAY: Lower weight = less fuel burned and decreased strain on roads, infrastructure, and your wallet.
Adapt Your Travel Style
While you may not be able to travel in ways you’re used to, there are still plenty of things you can do to make the most of your trip.
1. Stay longer, see more
Adventure is all about what you see, not how much you see. You can reduce costs by staying longer in one place, and choosing destinations with plenty to offer so there’s always something to do.
2. Consider off-grid independence
Use your Crusader’s solar and lithium setups to their full potential. Doing so allows you to run fridges, lights, and small appliances without having to pay for powered sites. Leaning on these setups helps simplify your travels, reducing the time it takes to drive through towns and heavy-traffic areas.
3. Adopt the ‘Hub & Spoke’ method
You don’t need your caravan to explore local areas. Design a basecamp that’s easy to access, and unhitch your caravan in a space that gives you plenty of room to come and go.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEAWAY: Solar and efficient batteries reduce generator use and noise pollution, while extended stays keep costs and fuel consumption down.
Look After Your Tow Vehicle and Caravan
Maintenance saves money, so ensure your vehicle and van are in tip-top shape before you leave home.
1. Service your setup
Poorly maintained rigs can not only be unsafe, but they chew through extra fuel and are often subject to costly repairs. Be sure to have a professional service both your caravan and tow vehicle to optimise performance and safety on holiday.
2. Increase tyre pressure within manufacturer limits
Upping your tyre pressure by 1-2 PSI improves efficiency by reducing rolling resistance, helping to reduce wear and tear on your tyres and improve fuel economy.
TRAVELLER’S TAKEAWAY: Well‑maintained vehicles are safer, economical, and help reduce waste from premature tyre or component failure.
Keep Costs Low and Ensure Safety Nets
Road trips can be expensive, but there’s plenty you can do to keep costs down
1. Spend consciously
We get it. Splurging on things you wouldn’t ordinarily do is all a part of the caravanning lifestyle. But not everything needs to be a costly expense. Spend some days doing low-cost activities, like taking the family fishing or going for bike rides. Remember to track your weekly spend and make conscious adjustments as you go.
2. Cook some meals at basecamp instead of buying food out
You don’t have to compromise on romantic dinners or dining at places that offer fun for the kids. Instead, break up your stay by preparing meals at basecamp some days and eating out on others.
3. Carry spare fuel safely
Check your state regulations and, if permitted, pack approved fuel containers in secure caravan mounts to ensure you have a backup supply for long distances.
TRAVELLER’S TIP: A safety net reduces the risk of travellers being stranded, forced into unsafe parking or missing out on scheduled events.
Travel Australia With Crusader Caravans
Despite the spikes at the pump, caravanning remains the most flexible and rewarding way to see Australia. You own your accommodation, can cook your own meals, and have the power to stay wherever you choose. All you need is a solid travel plan and lust for adventure.
Whether you’re in a compact CRV Gladiator or a fully-equipped XCountry Trailbreaker, your Crusader is an investment in freedom. Take advantage of our 2026 models, featuring advanced composite EcoLite construction and CrusadAir suspension*, so you can keep the dream alive without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to download our fuel-saving checklist, so you’re always prepared on the go.
Australia is waiting—go see it on your own terms.
*CrusadAir suspension available on selected off‑road Crusader models only. Speak with your dealer about suitability for your tow vehicle and travel plans.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided by Crusader Caravans for general informational purposes only. While we aim to keep the information accurate and up to date, conditions such as fuel prices, availability, and road rules may change without notice and vary by location.
All tips and suggestions are general in nature and may not suit every vehicle, caravan, or travel situation. Travellers should use their own judgement and always follow manufacturer guidelines, local laws, and safety requirements when towing.
Crusader Caravans accepts no responsibility for any inconvenience arising from the use of this information.
