While camping is supposed to be a way to get back to nature, those campers choosing to hit the road in motor homes or RVs are making quite a carbon footprint as they trail through nature. However, there are ways to make your RV vacation more eco friendly while enjoying the great outdoors from the comfort and convenience of your motor home.

One of the primary reasons why motor homes are considered to be bad for the environment is because of their poor fuel economy. RVs are heavy, and thus use a lot of gas in transport. In response to this problem, many RV manufacturers are now producing lighter vehicles that get more miles per gallon of gasoline. One thing you can do to improve your fuel economy is to pack light. A few pounds here and there may not seem like much, but by the time you've fully loaded your motor home for a weeklong vacation, all those little things can add up to several hundred pounds or more. If you are purchasing new items for your RV, be sure to consider weight before you buy.

Wind drag on the vehicle will also affect your fuel efficiency greatly. While some newer trailers and motor homes feature more aerodynamic designs, there are a few things you can do to help this along. Avoid mounting items on the outside of your RV, such as bicycles and lawn chairs. While it is nice to have these things along, try to make space to pack them inside the vehicle, or store them in lower external compartments whenever possible.

There are other small ways to improve fuel economy, too. Reducing your speed will improve your gas mileage. Cutting energy use inside the vehicle is another way to save on gas. Reduce the amount of air conditioning you need by paying attention to where you park your RV. Opt for shaded areas when available. Consider using inside window coverings to cut down on the heat that enters the RV when you are traveling or away. These can also provide privacy and security when you are away from your vehicle. Also, consider using outside awnings and opening the windows when it makes sense.

Saving water is another way to make your motor home more eco friendly. If your shower and sink aren't already outfitted with low flow faucets and aerators, make that change as soon as possible. Installing a waterless toilet, such as a portable composting toilet for RVs, is another way to save on water usage. Additionally, a composting toilet will also save you the hassle and unpleasant job of pumping out the holding tank. Furthermore, you won't have to worry about chemicals needed to treat water in the holding tank, either.

So if you're planning to take a summer road trip this year in your RV or motor home, remember that it doesn't have to be bad for the environment. With a few extra steps, you can make your travels more environmentally friendly. And in the future, there's no doubt that there will be even more options available for RV owners who want to go green, as society embraces more eco friendly ways of living.