RV FEATURE
• Keep your vehicle properly maintained with
regular services. Don’t scrimp on new air
filters;
• The government’s Green Vehicle Guide
has comprehensive information on vehicle
emissions, a fuel cost and CO2 calculator,
rankings and measurements for newer
vehicles, and the ability to compare up to
three vehicles. This is especially useful if you
are buying a new car. Pick the highest-rated
vehicle that will do the job and consider
a lighter van that won’t require as much
power to tow it.
RVING GREEN
We RVers have to look after the environment
since, for most of us, enjoying nature and the
outdoors is the main reason we are on the
road. So:
• Carry a bag in your vehicle for rubbish.
For all caravan and camp rubbish, tie it up
neatly in a plastic bag and dispose of it in
a bin; when possible, recycle. If no bins are
provided, such as in many national parks,
take your rubbish with you;
• Leave all plants alone. Even dead tree
branches and trunks provide shelter for
animals and insects. Is it worth it to destroy
their little home for the sake of one campfire?
• Carry a small shovel for toilet emergencies.
Dig a hole and bury everything afterwards
including the toilet paper;
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tas.
44 \
• Always comply with agricultural regulations
when crossing state lines. These are in place
to protect horticultural industries worth
millions of dollars, and which, in the end,
feed all of us. Don’t endanger this for the
sake of a bunch of grapes or a few apples;
• Clean your hiking boots, camping gear and
tyres after walking, camping or driving
on tracks; this helps stop the spread
of pathogens that endanger delicate
ecosystems; and
• Try not to let vermin such as cane toads
hitch a ride in the undercarriage of your
caravan, trailer or vehicle; have a look
before you leave your campsite.
To reduce your fuel consumption,
consider a smaller caravan.