Should You Bring a Gas Can on a Road Trip?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a road trip soon? One question that may be on your mind is whether or not to bring a gas can. While it may seem like a good idea to have extra fuel on hand, there are several factors to consider before making this decision.

Pros of Bringing a Gas Can

  • Increased Range: Having extra fuel can increase your vehicle’s range and allow you to travel further without having to stop for gas.
  • Emergency Preparedness: If you run out of gas in the middle of nowhere, having a gas can with you can be a lifesaver.
  • Cheaper Gas: Buying gas in bulk and keeping it in your gas can may be cheaper than buying it at a gas station along the way.

Cons of Bringing a Gas Can

  • Safety Hazards: Gasoline is highly flammable and can pose a safety hazard if not handled properly. Make sure your container is approved for gasoline and is stored securely.
  • Inconvenience: Carrying around an extra container of gasoline can take up space in your vehicle and be inconvenient to handle.

    Make sure you have enough room for it and that it’s easily accessible in case you need it.

  • Limited Usefulness: If you’re traveling through areas with plenty of gas stations, bringing a gas can may not be necessary. It’s important to research your route beforehand and determine if there will be long stretches without access to fuel.

Tips for Bringing a Gas Can on Your Road Trip

If you do decide to bring a gas can with you on your road trip, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Use a High-Quality Container

Make sure your gas can is made from high-quality materials and is approved for gasoline. Cheap containers may leak or break, which can be dangerous.

Store it Properly

Keep your gas can stored securely and away from any sources of heat or flame. Make sure it’s easily accessible in case you need it, but not so close that it poses a safety hazard.

Plan Your Route Carefully

Research your route beforehand and determine if there will be long stretches without access to fuel. If there are plenty of gas stations along the way, bringing a gas can may not be necessary.

Handle with Care

Gasoline is highly flammable and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Make sure you handle your gas can with care and follow all safety precautions when refilling your vehicle.

In conclusion, whether or not to bring a gas can on your road trip depends on several factors. While it may increase your range and provide emergency preparedness, it also poses safety hazards and may be inconvenient to handle. Before making this decision, research your route carefully and weigh the pros and cons of bringing extra fuel with you.