When living the vanlife and managing fuel stops, understanding your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and remaining mileage is crucial for planning and budgeting. Typically, fuel costs can range from $120 to $135 depending on your van’s tank size and current fuel prices, but keeping track of how many miles you have left before reaching empty (E) helps avoid running out unexpectedly. In my experience, once I get down to about 90 miles remaining, I start to look for the next fuel stop proactively. This buffer gives me peace of mind to avoid stressful situations on the road, especially when traveling through remote areas where gas stations are few and far between. Additionally, observing the 'Starting system' and 'RUN' indicators on the dashboard can signal if the engine systems are operating optimally, helping you maintain your van’s performance. To optimize your fuel usage, consider keeping a log of miles driven per tank fill-up and the cost involved each time. This practice not only helps you budget better but also identifies if your van’s fuel consumption changes due to terrain, weather, or load. Plus, combining these insights with real-time mileage left before empty empowers you to plan your routes with confidence and avoid unnecessary fuel expenses or emergencies during your adventures.