Did you know that studies show 84 percent of Canadian travellers are interested in becoming more eco-friendly as they explore the great outdoors? Sustainable RV living is no longer a fad or a fringe idea, but something that many Canadians build their lifestyles around. When you work to become more eco-friendly, you have the opportunity to get closer to nature while actively reducing your carbon footprint. So, how can you still have fun on your RV travels while going green? Keep reading to learn some of our top tips for eco-friendly RV living.
Eco-Friendly RV Living: How Can I Become a More Sustainable in My Travels?
If you’re ready to take on the challenge of being a more earth-conscious traveller, you’re not alone. Luckily, there is a big movement towards sustainable RV living that makes the whole process easy for those interested in the lifestyle.
Choose an Energy-Efficient RV
Are you new to the world of RVs altogether? Or maybe you’re thinking about making an RV upgrade? In Canada, RVing is big business, with more than 610,000 rented RV trips and 8.2 million recorded trips by RV owners completed across the country in a single year. For those considering investing in a new RV, the options are seemingly limitless. But you can opt for an RV that features solar power, high-efficiency appliances, and smart water systems. With these green features, you can use much less energy and water than you would with a traditional RV.
Invest in Green Cleaning Products
Cleaning the interior and exterior of your RV is part of life on the road. But if you’re using common cleaning products that contain bleach and other potentially harmful chemicals, you are likely releasing these toxins into the air and contributing to poor air quality as well as pollution. Make the switch to greener cleaning products for the interior of your RV that are effective but free from toxic chemicals. You can find these in your local grocery store or even make your own to cut back on your use of plastics. It’s also a good idea to use green cleaning tools and accessories like biodegradable trash bags, reusable washcloths, and to avoid single-use plastic wherever possible.
Minimize Energy Use
Living in an RV traditionally requires a great use of energy. However, if you are able to switch to solar power, you’ve already completed one of the biggest shifts in reducing your carbon footprint. Other easy ways to minimize your energy use while RVing include:
- Unable to invest in solar power? Try occasionally going without a power source instead. If you’re spending time off the grid already, see how long you can avoid using a generator. Or for those who prefer to use campsites, consider only using the provided hook-ups when necessary.
- Find ways to stay cool in the summer months that don’t include using your AC. Operating an AC unit requires a great deal of power, so do what you can to go without it whenever possible. If you work to orientate your RV so that it is at least partially covered by the shade of trees or other natural elements during the day, you can keep lounging areas cool. And with the use of UV reflective insulation in the windows, you can easily direct the sun away from your interior
- Just like when you leave home, you should be unplugging most appliances and turning off all the lights in your RV when they’re not in use. These simple steps can go a long way in helping to reduce your overall energy consumption
Maximize Fuel Mileage
The less fuel that you use up in your RV travels, the smaller your impact on the environment. So, it helps to do everything you can to make sure your RV is getting the best fuel mileage possible. This means you’ll need to keep up with a very tight maintenance schedule for your RV. Switch out the air filter on time, change the oil as needed, and always maintain proper tire pressure. And if you can pack lighter, you’ll find yourself using less fuel to reach your next destination.
Protect Your Investment
Now that you’ve made all of these important changes to offset your carbon footprint while travelling in your RV, you’ll need to protect your investment with comprehensive RV insurance. Call 1.844.929.4768 or contact the friendly team at Wayfarer Insurance Group today for more information and be sure to request a free quote.
