7 Best RV Propane Tank Storage Solutions for Long Trips
Secure your propane safely on long hauls. Discover the 7 best storage solutions to ensure stability, compliance, and peace of mind during your RV travels.
There is nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, but that autonomy relies entirely on your ability to keep the lights on and the stove running. Managing propane storage isn’t just about convenience; it is the backbone of your off-grid comfort and safety. Let’s dive into how to secure your fuel so you can focus on the horizon rather than your tank setup.
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Essential Safety Rules for Propane Storage
Propane is incredibly efficient, but it demands respect. Always store your tanks in a well-ventilated, exterior compartment to prevent the buildup of gas in the event of a slow leak or pressure relief activation. Never store spare tanks inside your living space, regardless of how convenient it might seem during a cold snap.
Ensure that all tanks remain upright at all times to keep the relief valve in the vapor space of the cylinder. If a tank is stored on its side, liquid propane can enter the regulator, leading to dangerous pressure surges and equipment damage. Always inspect your hoses for cracking or brittleness before every long trip, as vibration and UV exposure take a heavy toll on rubber components.
Proper Weight Distribution for RV Tanks
When you are loading up for a long trip, every pound counts toward your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Propane tanks are heavy, and placing them improperly can drastically affect your trailer’s tongue weight, leading to dangerous sway or poor handling. Aim to keep your tanks as close to the axle line as possible or within the designated factory mounting area to maintain balance.
If you are adding auxiliary tanks, calculate the weight of the fuel plus the steel cylinder—roughly 37-40 pounds for a full 20lb tank. Distribute this weight evenly across the chassis to avoid putting undue stress on one side of your suspension. A well-balanced rig is not only safer to drive but also significantly easier on your tires and wheel bearings over thousands of miles.
Flame King 20lb Steel Tank Mounting Rack
If you are tired of your tanks shifting during transit, the Flame King mounting rack is a reliable, no-nonsense solution. It provides a rock-solid base that bolts directly to your A-frame or storage platform, ensuring your cylinders stay put on even the roughest washboard roads.
This rack is ideal for the traveler who prioritizes structural integrity over bells and whistles. It is heavy-duty, weather-resistant, and built to last as long as the RV itself. If you need a permanent, secure mounting point that won’t budge, this is the gold standard.
Camco Propane Tank Cover for Dual Tanks
A dual tank setup is essential for long-term boondocking, but it looks messy and leaves your valves exposed to road debris. The Camco dual tank cover solves this by shielding your regulators and hoses from dirt, salt, and sun damage. It also cleans up the aesthetic of your hitch area, which is a nice bonus for those who appreciate a tidy rig.
Beyond the visuals, this cover acts as a secondary layer of protection for your sensitive regulator components. It is easy to remove when it’s time to swap tanks, making it a functional upgrade rather than just a cosmetic one. If you run a dual-tank system, this is an inexpensive way to extend the life of your hardware.
Manchester Tank 20lb Cylinder Storage
Manchester Tank is a household name for a reason: they manufacture high-quality, reliable steel cylinders that meet strict DOT standards. Their 20lb cylinders are the industry benchmark, featuring easy-to-read gauges and high-quality valves that hold up well to repeated use.
These tanks are perfect for the full-timer who needs a dependable fuel source that can be swapped or refilled at almost any station in the country. They aren’t the lightest option on the market, but they are incredibly durable. If you want a tank that you can trust to function perfectly in extreme temperatures, Manchester is the way to go.
Truma LevelCheck Propane Sensor System
Running out of propane in the middle of a freezing night is a rite of passage you want to avoid. The Truma LevelCheck uses ultrasound to accurately measure the liquid level in your tank without the need for messy stick-on strips or unreliable weight scales. You simply hold the device against the side of the tank, and it gives you an instant green or red light indicator.
This tool is a game-changer for anyone who spends significant time off-grid. It eliminates the guesswork and allows you to plan your refills strategically rather than waiting for your stove to sputter out. It is a must-have for the data-driven traveler who values precision and peace of mind.
Viking Cylinders Composite Tank Storage
If you are looking to shed weight, Viking Cylinders’ composite tanks are the most innovative option available today. They are significantly lighter than steel, translucent so you can see the fuel level at a glance, and completely rust-proof. This makes them a dream for anyone struggling with payload capacity or living in humid, coastal environments.
However, they are more expensive than traditional steel tanks and require a specific mounting bracket due to their unique shape. They are best suited for the weight-conscious traveler who is willing to invest in premium, long-lasting technology. If you have the budget and want to modernize your setup, these tanks are a fantastic upgrade.
RecPro RV Propane Tank Tray and Bracket
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best, and the RecPro tray and bracket system is exactly that. It offers a secure, universal fit for standard cylinders, ensuring they remain upright and vibration-free. The construction is sturdy enough to handle the stresses of long-distance highway travel without rattling or loosening.
This is an excellent choice for DIY builders or those looking to replace a damaged factory mount. It is straightforward to install and provides a clean, professional look. If you need a reliable, affordable mounting system that just works, look no further.
Worthington 11lb Propane Tank Mounting
For van lifers or those with limited storage space, the 11lb Worthington tank is often the perfect compromise. It provides enough fuel for cooking and minor heating needs while taking up significantly less room than a standard 20lb tank. Because of its smaller footprint, it is easier to tuck into tight, custom-built storage compartments.
The mounting hardware for these smaller tanks is just as important as the tanks themselves to prevent tipping. When paired with a secure, custom-fit bracket, this setup is ideal for agile, smaller rigs. If you are building out a van or a compact camper, this smaller form factor will save you valuable square footage.
Securing Tanks for Off-Road Travel
Off-roading with an RV adds a massive amount of stress to your equipment, and propane tanks are no exception. Standard mounting straps are often insufficient; you need heavy-duty, bolt-down brackets that can withstand vertical and horizontal G-forces. Always double-check your hardware after a day on the trails, as vibrations can work fasteners loose over time.
Consider using locking mechanisms if you are traveling through remote areas to prevent theft. Additionally, ensure that your propane lines have enough slack to accommodate the frame flex that occurs on uneven terrain. A secure tank is a safe tank, and taking the extra time to reinforce your setup is a small price to pay for security in the backcountry.
Investing in the right propane storage solutions is about more than just equipment; it is about ensuring your independence while you explore. By prioritizing quality mounts, proper weight distribution, and reliable monitoring, you can keep your systems running smoothly for years to come. Choose the setup that fits your specific travel style, and you’ll find that the road ahead is much more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an RV propane tank storage tray?
An RV propane tank storage tray is a reinforced metal platform installed on a trailer tongue to hold fuel cylinders upright and secure. Most models bolt directly onto standard 2-inch to 3-inch A-frame trailer rails and support two 20-pound or 30-pound DOT cylinders. These heavy-duty steel trays include a threaded center rod, locking wing nut, and bottom ring brackets to prevent shifting on rough roads. Adding a padlock to the wing nut prevents fuel theft during long highway stops.
What does an RV propane tank cover protect against during travel?
Propane tank covers protect cylinders, valves, and regulators from flying gravel, ultraviolet degradation, and harsh weather during highway towing. Heavy polypropylene hard-shell covers deflect high-speed stones kicked up by rear truck tires, preventing valve denting and structural tank damage. Soft vinyl covers offer budget UV shielding during seasonal storage. Molded plastic dual-tank covers feature a hinged top-access flap, letting you turn shutoff valves and inspect auto-changeover regulators without unbolting the entire assembly.
How do I install a dual propane tank mounting kit on an RV trailer tongue?
Installing a dual propane tank mounting kit requires bolting the base tray to the trailer A-frame beams and securing the vertical threaded rod. Position the steel baseplate behind the tongue jack, maintaining at least 3 inches of clearance from your 12-volt battery box. Secure the mounting brackets around the frame rails using half-inch Grade 5 bolts and nylon lock nuts. Place two cylinders into the recessed rings, slide the top crossbar down, and hand-tighten the wing collar securely.
How do you store extra 20 lb propane tanks in an RV truck bed?
Securing extra 20 lb propane tanks in a truck bed requires keeping cylinders upright inside a stabilizing base anchored with heavy-duty ratchet straps. Never lay cylinders horizontally because liquid fuel can vent through pressure-relief valves. Set tanks into molded plastic stabilizer bases or a custom wooden grid directly against the cab bulkhead. Fasten a 1-inch polyester strap through the tank collars to bed tie-down anchors, and ensure truck bed caps or tonneau covers maintain adequate airflow.
Which is better for long trips, an A-frame propane mount or a bumper mount?
Tongue-mounted A-frame racks are significantly better for long trips than rear bumper mounts because trailer tongues experience less severe road vibration. Trailer bumpers suffer from exaggerated lever action over bumps, which creates severe stress cracking on lightweight 4-inch square hollow bumpers. Tongue mounting concentrates fuel weight near the tow vehicle hitch, stabilizing towing dynamics and keeping pressurized tanks within protected front sightlines. Choose tongue trays rated for at least 80 pounds to handle full 30-pound tanks.
How many spare propane tanks can you carry on an RV for cross-country travel?
Federal transportation guidelines generally limit non-commercial vehicles to carrying no more than four spare propane cylinders weighing under 45 pounds each. For extended cross-country trips, carrying two mounted 30-pound tanks plus one securely stored 20-pound backup cylinder provides roughly 80 to 100 hours of continuous furnace heating. This combined 80-pound propane capacity typically lasts two to three weeks of cold-weather boondocking before requiring a commercial refill at a travel center.
Why is my RV propane tank mount rattling or coming loose while driving?
Excessive vibration in an RV propane tank mount usually stems from loose frame U-bolts, missing rubber isolators, or uneven tank clamping pressure. Highway road joints cause metal components to stretch and back out unfastened nuts over long distances. Inspect your bottom mounting bracket for missing lock washers, and replace worn rubber grommets beneath the tank base. Torque all U-bolt nuts to 25 foot-pounds and wrap the central threaded rod with silicone tape to eliminate metallic chatter.
Is it legal to carry RV propane tanks inside an enclosed camper or vehicle?
Carrying RV propane tanks inside an enclosed living space, camper interior, or passenger vehicle cabin is illegal and creates severe explosion hazards. Department of Transportation regulations and NFPA 1192 RV safety standards mandate that DOT cylinders must always be stored in ventilated exterior spaces. If ambient temperature increases, pressure-relief valves automatically release vapor to prevent tank ruptures. Trapped propane sinks to the floor, where any refrigerator igniter or water heater pilot light will ignite it.
