RV/Van Life Water Tank Duration Calculator
Created by: Olivia Harper
Last updated:
Estimate how long your fresh water supply will last based on your tank size, number of people, and usage habits. Plan refill stops and optimize your water conservation for extended boondocking trips.
What is an RV/Van Life Water Tank Duration Calculator?
An RV/Van Life Water Tank Duration Calculator helps you estimate how long your fresh water supply will last based on your tank size and daily usage patterns. This essential planning tool helps you avoid running out of water while boondocking or dry camping.
Whether you have a small 10-gallon tank in a camper van or a 50+ gallon tank in a motorhome, understanding your water consumption helps you plan refill stops, conserve when needed, and size your system properly for your travel style.
Understanding RV Water Usage
Drinking Water: 0.5-1 gallon per person per day minimum
Cooking: 1-2 gallons per day for meal preparation
Dish Washing: 1-3 gallons depending on method (0.5 gal with spray bottle)
Showers: 1-3 gallons per shower with water-saving techniques
Bathroom: 1-2 gallons per day for hand washing and toilet (if water flush)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does 20 gallons of water last in a van?
With conservative use (no showers, minimal dish washing), 20 gallons can last one person 5-7 days. With daily quick showers and normal cooking/drinking, expect 2-3 days. Two people sharing typically halves the duration. Track your actual usage for the first few trips to calibrate.
How much water does a van shower use?
A typical van shower uses 1-3 gallons depending on technique. Navy showers (wet, soap, rinse) use 1-1.5 gallons. A low-flow showerhead with continuous flow uses 1.5-2 GPM. Many van lifers take 2-minute showers using about 2 gallons total.
What size fresh water tank do I need for van life?
Solo travelers typically need 15-30 gallons; couples need 30-50 gallons. For extended boondocking, larger is better. Consider your refill frequency - if you can refill every 3-4 days, a smaller tank works. If you want week-long autonomy, plan for 40+ gallons.
How much water do I need per person per day in an RV?
Budget 3-10 gallons per person per day depending on usage. Minimum (drinking, cooking, hand washing): 3-4 gallons. Moderate (add quick showers): 5-7 gallons. Full use (longer showers, dish washing): 8-10+ gallons. Conservation habits greatly affect these numbers.
Can I drink water from my RV fresh water tank?
Yes, if properly maintained. Use food-grade tanks and hoses, sanitize regularly (quarterly with diluted bleach), don't let water sit more than 2 weeks, and consider a water filter. Many RVers use tank water for cooking/washing and buy drinking water separately.
How do I conserve water while boondocking?
Use a spray bottle for dishes, take navy showers, catch and reuse grey water for flushing if legal, use paper plates sometimes, brush teeth with a cup instead of running water, and fix any leaks immediately. A foot pump faucet also reduces waste significantly.
How often should I fill my RV fresh water tank?
Fill when you drop to 25-30% to avoid sediment intake and pump damage. For drinking quality, don't store water more than 2 weeks. Many RVers top off whenever passing a potable water source rather than running completely empty.
What's the difference between fresh, grey, and black water tanks?
Fresh water is clean water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Grey water is used water from sinks and showers (can sometimes be dumped on the ground depending on local laws). Black water is toilet waste - must be disposed of at dump stations.
Sources and References
- EPA, "WaterSense: Water Use Statistics", epa.gov/watersense
- RV Industry Association, "Water System Standards for Recreation Vehicles"
- Go RVing, "RV Water System Tips and Maintenance Guide", gorving.com