RV Propane Safety

RV Propane Safety for International Travellers

Propane (also called LPG or LP Gas) is a common fuel in US RVs. It powers cooking stoves, ovens, heating systems, hot water, and often refrigerators when you are not plugged into electricity. For European travellers, propane use in the USA can feel familiar, but the rules, equipment, and refuelling practices are different enough that misunderstandings can cause inconvenience or safety issues.

US safety regulations are generally strict, but specific rules can vary by state, tunnel authority, ferry operator, or rental company. Situations you may not commonly encounter in Europe, such as long mountain drives, extreme heat, or mandatory propane shut-offs before certain tunnels, are more common on American RV routes. Rental RVs in the US are almost always larger than European campervans, with permanently mounted propane tanks rather than exchangeable bottles. Understanding how US propane systems work, when propane must legally be turned off versus when it is simply recommended, and how refuelling is handled will help you travel safely and avoid delays during your trip.

How Propane Systems Work in US RVs

Most US rental RVs have an onboard propane tank permanently fixed under the vehicle. Unlike many European systems, you do not remove or swap cylinders.

Propane is measured in gallons, not litres (1 US gallon ≈ 3.8 litres).
The tank is filled at dedicated propane or LP Gas filling stations, not at ordinary petrol pumps.
In almost all cases, you are not permitted to refill the tank yourself. A trained attendant fills the tank for you.

Your rental company will explain the tank level indicator and shut-off valve during vehicle handover. Always check the propane level before heading into remote areas or national parks.

When You Must Turn Propane Off

In the USA, there are situations where propane must be switched off at the main valve. These requirements are typically posted clearly but can vary by location:

At petrol stations while refuelling the vehicle.
Before entering certain tunnels, especially on some coastal, urban, or mountain routes.
When boarding some ferries, depending on the operator.

Signs will clearly state “Propane must be turned off”. Unlike in parts of Europe where this may be advisory, in the US these instructions are often enforced by staff or authorities. Failure to comply may result in fines or being denied access, depending on local rules.

Propane and Driving Safety

Driving with propane onboard is normal and legal when the system is properly installed and maintained.

US RV refrigerators can operate on propane while driving. However, some rental companies recommend using 12V mode (running from the vehicle’s electrical system) instead. Follow the guidance provided with your rental.
Some rental providers advise turning off propane during long mountain descents or in extreme heat as a precaution, even where not legally required.
Never attempt repairs or adjustments unless instructed by the rental provider.

If you are unfamiliar with US vehicle rules, including licence requirements for larger RVs, review the driving licence FAQ before you travel.

Refilling Propane in the USA

Propane refill stations are common but generally less frequent than ordinary fuel stations.

Look for signs reading “Propane”, “LP Gas”, or “RV Propane”.
Many large travel centres, rural hardware stores, farm supply stores, and RV dealerships offer refills.
Opening hours vary, so plan refills ahead when travelling outside cities.

Urban areas such as Los Angeles and Denver have many refill options, but access can still be limited by staffing, opening times, or the physical size of your RV.

Campgrounds, Hookups, and Propane Use

Understanding common US campground terms helps you manage propane safely:

Full hookups: Electricity, water, and sewer connections. With electrical hookups, you may use less propane for heating, cooking, or refrigeration.
Partial hookups: Usually electricity and water only.
Dump station: A place to empty wastewater tanks. Propane is not refilled here, but these facilities are often at the same sites.
Boondocking: Camping without any hookups, often on public land or in remote areas. Propane becomes essential for cooking, heating, and hot water.

Always ensure you have adequate propane before boondocking, as refill options may be far away.

European vs US Propane Differences

US tanks are fixed to the vehicle and refilled, not exchanged.
Refilling is attended and regulated.
Units are commonly shown in gallons and pounds, not litres and kilograms.
Mandatory propane shut-off zones are more common in the USA, though exact rules vary by location.

Practical Safety Tips

Never modify valves, hoses, or fittings.
Turn off propane when not in use for extended periods.
US RVs are typically equipped with propane and carbon monoxide alarms. Do not disable them, and report any warnings to your rental provider.
If you smell gas, turn everything off, ventilate the RV, leave the area if necessary, and contact your rental provider immediately.
Ask for a propane system demonstration when collecting your RV.

Before You Go

Propane safety is straightforward once you understand the US system and local variations. Taking a few minutes to learn the rules and your rental company’s recommendations will make your RV holiday smoother and safer. When you are ready to travel, check current RV and campervan availability across the USA on USARVRentals.com.

RV Propane Safety