⛽️ Fuel-Smart Camping: Why Now Might Be the Best Time to Travel

Just quietly… this could be one of the best times in years to book a camping getaway.

At first glance, that might not make much sense with fuel prices where they are. However, what we’re seeing on the ground at 3 Burrows Caravan Hire tells a different story.

The crowds have thinned out significantly. Campgrounds feel more open and relaxed. Holiday parks are easier to book, and off-peak rates are some of the best we’ve seen all year. It’s starting to feel a lot like those COVID travel days again—except without the stress, overbooking, or long wait times.

🌏 You’re Closer to Great Camping Than You Think

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to travel far to have a memorable trip. The reality is, some of the best camping destinations in Australia are right on Brisbane’s doorstep.

Within just one to two hours, you can be in places like:

• 🌿 Kenilworth, known for its laid-back country charm and green surrounds
• 🌳 Imbil and the Mary Valley, offering peaceful camps and scenic drives
• 🌊 Noosa and surrounds, where you can enjoy a mix of coastline, river and hinterland

These are locations people travel across the world to experience, yet they’re easily accessible for a short, well-planned getaway.

💡 The Shift: Travel Smarter, Not Further

Fuel prices haven’t stopped people from travelling, but they have encouraged a shift in how trips are planned.

Previously, it was common to cover long distances, move frequently between locations, and try to fit as much in as possible. While that approach can work, it often leads to more time on the road than actually enjoying the destination.

Now, more travellers are choosing to slow things down. They are selecting one quality location, staying a few extra nights, and making the most of where they are. This approach reduces fuel costs while improving the overall experience.

Less driving. More time to actually unwind.

🚐 Practical Ways to Reduce Fuel Costs

📍 Stay Local

Choosing destinations closer to home significantly reduces fuel consumption. It also means less time spent driving and more time spent enjoying your surroundings.

⚖️ Choose the Right Setup

Fuel consumption varies greatly depending on the size and weight of the caravan being towed.

Smaller campers can use around 8–11L per 100km, while larger vans paired with a 4WD can reach 20–24L per 100km. Selecting a setup that suits your vehicle and travel plans can make a noticeable difference to overall fuel use.

🏕️ Stay Longer, Move Less

Frequent travel between locations increases fuel costs quickly. By choosing one base and staying there for several nights, you reduce unnecessary driving and create a more relaxed trip.

This also allows for slower mornings, less setup time, and a more enjoyable overall experience.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Share the Experience

Travelling with family or friends and sharing costs can make caravan holidays one of the most affordable options available. When expenses are split, the cost per person becomes very reasonable.

📱 Plan Your Fuel Stops

Fuel pricing can vary significantly depending on location. Filling up away from highways and using fuel apps to track prices can save 20–30 cents per litre, which adds up over the course of a trip.

🔧 Smarter Towing = Better Fuel Economy (and Safer Trips)

❌ Avoid Overusing Cruise Control

Cruise control can be useful on flat, open highways. However, when towing a caravan, it is not always the most efficient or safest option.

In hilly terrain, cruise control often forces the vehicle to maintain speed, which leads to higher engine revs and increased fuel consumption. In windy or wet conditions, it reduces driver responsiveness and can increase the risk of sway.

In most situations, especially around South East Queensland, it is better to manually control your speed and adapt to the conditions.

⚙️ Use Manual Mode for Better Control

Modern automatic vehicles are designed to maximise fuel efficiency under normal driving conditions. As a result, they tend to shift quickly into higher gears such as 5th and 6th, even when towing.

While this may seem efficient, it can reduce control and place unnecessary strain on the vehicle when towing a caravan.

Using manual mode allows you to better manage how the vehicle performs:

• When climbing hills, holding a lower gear prevents constant gear changes and reduces engine strain
• When descending, selecting 2nd or 3rd gear provides engine braking, helping control speed without relying heavily on the brakes
• Maintaining the correct gear improves overall stability and control

🛑 Reduce Brake Load on Descents

Allowing the vehicle to remain in higher gears when travelling downhill can cause it to pick up speed too quickly, placing excessive pressure on the braking system.

By selecting a lower gear and using engine braking, you can maintain a safer, more controlled descent while reducing wear on your brakes.

⛽ Drive Smoothly and Consistently

Efficient towing comes down to how the vehicle is driven.

Maintaining steady speeds, accelerating gently, anticipating road conditions, and avoiding unnecessary braking all contribute to better fuel economy and a smoother trip.

🌤️ Off-Peak Travel Has Its Advantages

Travelling outside peak holiday periods offers several benefits. Campgrounds are quieter, availability is better, and pricing is often more competitive.

In many cases, the savings on accommodation and hire can help balance out fuel costs, making the overall trip more affordable.

🏕️ It’s Not About Distance—It’s About Experience

A shorter trip does not mean a lesser experience. In many cases, it allows for a better one.

Spending more time in one place creates opportunities to relax, explore properly, and enjoy the small moments that often get missed when constantly on the move.

The destinations that feel familiar are often the ones worth revisiting with a slower pace.

🚐 The 3 Burrows Approach

At 3 Burrows Caravan Hire, we’re seeing more travellers choosing simpler, more considered trips. They are staying closer to home, travelling less frequently between locations, and focusing on quality time away rather than distance travelled.

This shift is leading to better overall experiences and more enjoyable getaways.

📍 Final Thoughts

Fuel prices may have changed how people travel, but they have not taken away the value of getting away.

If anything, they have encouraged a return to what camping is really about—taking the time to slow down, enjoy your surroundings, and make the most of the experience.

Simple. Slower. Better.

👉 Start Planning Your Next Trip

Explore what’s available close to home and make the most of your next break.

🌐 www.threeburrows.com.au
📲 Follow @threeburrowsadventure for local tips and inspiration

 FAQ

Is camping still affordable with high fuel prices?
Yes. By travelling shorter distances, staying longer, and driving efficiently, camping remains one of the most cost-effective holiday options.

How can I reduce fuel consumption when towing a caravan?
Drive smoothly, avoid overusing cruise control, use manual mode where appropriate, and plan shorter travel distances.

Is it better to stay in one location?
Yes. Staying in one place reduces fuel costs, minimises setup time, and allows for a more relaxed experience.

Does towing technique affect fuel economy?
Absolutely. Gear selection, speed control, and driving style all have a direct impact on fuel usage and overall safety.