Refillable LPG Gas Tanks for Vans
Refillable LPG tanks save you money and hassle compared to exchange Calor bottles.
The System
A refillable tank is permanently mounted in your van (typically in a gas locker). You fill it at petrol station LPG pumps, just like filling a car.
Popular Brands
| Brand | Type | Capacity | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaslow | Fixed tank | 6-11kg | £200-400 |
| Gasit | Fixed tank | 6-11kg | £180-350 |
| Safefill | Removable cylinder | 5-7kg | £120-160 |
Savings
LPG costs roughly £1/kg at the pump. Calor propane costs £3-5/kg. A Gaslow system pays for itself in 30-40 refills (2-3 years of full-time van life).
Installation
Professional installation recommended. £100-200 for fitting. The tank must be secured in a sealed gas locker with an external filling point.
Compatibility
Most UK petrol stations with LPG have standard bayonet or ACME connections. Check coverage on filllpg.co.uk. LPG is available across the UK but rare in remote areas.
Verdict
Refillable LPG is worth it for full-time van lifers. The upfront cost is significant (£300-600 installed) but running costs are 60-70% lower.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
