If you travel by RV, refilling propane is part of your everyday life. It powers your heat, your hot water, your stove burners—and maybe even your Blackstone if you’re cooking outside. But when your tank starts running low, the question becomes: where’s the best place to refill?
Here’s a breakdown of the most common propane refill options on the road, the pros and cons of refilling vs. swapping, safety tips, and how we make sure we never run out.
Best Places to Refill Propane
1. Tractor Supply Co.
Reliable, reasonably priced, and easy to find. Most locations offer propane refills, and the staff is usually experienced. A go-to stop for many RVers, especially in smaller towns.
2. U-Haul
Most U-Haul locations have propane refill stations, and their prices are typically fair. They’re widespread, quick, and easy—great for both towables and motorhomes.
3. Truck Stops (Loves, Pilot, TA, etc.)
Many major truck stop chains offer propane refills, especially at locations with RV lanes or dump stations. Loves, Pilot, TA, and others often have dedicated propane stations that are easy to access with larger rigs. Hours are generous and pricing is usually fair. Check the services listed for each location before you go.
4. AmeriGas & Local Propane Suppliers
If you’re near one, these are often the cheapest and most thorough options. You’ll typically get a full tank (not a partial fill like with swaps), and the staff knows exactly what they’re doing.
5. Hardware Stores & Gas Stations
Some Ace Hardware stores, independent hardware shops, and rural gas stations offer refills. It’s hit-or-miss, so call ahead or check online reviews to avoid a wasted trip.
6. Costco (select locations)
Not all Costco locations have propane refill stations, but the ones that do tend to offer excellent pricing. If you’re already stopping for groceries, it’s a bonus—but definitely check first.
7. Campgrounds
Most campgrounds that offer full hookups will refill propane tanks—but you’ll pay for the convenience. It’s often the most expensive option, but incredibly useful if you’re already on-site and running low.
Refill vs. Swap: What’s the Difference?
You’ve got two main ways to get propane on the road: refill your own tank, or swap it for a new one. Each has pros and cons.
Swap Stations (Blue Rhino, AmeriGas Exchange, etc.)
You’ll find these outside most grocery stores, gas stations, Walmart, Home Depot, and even some pharmacies. Just hand over your empty tank and walk away with a full one.
Pros:
- Extremely convenient
- Widely available
- Often accessible late or after-hours
Cons:
- You don’t keep your own tank
- Tanks are usually only 75% full (~15 lbs instead of 20 lbs)
- Higher cost per pound
- Quality of the tank you receive can vary
Typical Cost: $20–25 for ~15 lbs of propane
Refilling Your Own Tank
As long as you plan for it, it’s super easy to fill and maintain your own tank. (This is what we do.)
Pros:
- You keep your own tank
- Usually cheaper per gallon
- You get a full fill (up to 20 lbs)
- Better control over the condition of your tank
- You don’t have to wait until your tank is totally empty—you can top off anytime, which is helpful when prepping for off-grid travel
Cons:
- Not as fast as swapping
- Some locations won’t fill older or uncertified tanks
- Not available at every gas station
Typical Cost: $12–18 for a full 20 lb fill
Quick Safety Tips for Refilling Propane
Before disconnecting your tank, make sure all propane appliances are turned off. This includes your furnace, water heater, stove, and fridge if it’s running on propane. Check the certification date stamped on the collar of your tank. Tanks typically need to be re-certified after 12 years, and many refill stations will not service expired tanks.
Store your tanks upright in a well-ventilated area—never inside your RV. Propane is heavier than air and needs proper airflow for safety. It’s also a good habit to inspect your hoses and regulators regularly. Look for cracks, signs of wear, or leaks. A quick visual check can prevent a much bigger problem down the road.
Special Note for Motorhome Owners
If you have a built-in propane tank, not all refill locations can accommodate you. Many refill stations only service portable tanks. For motorhomes, U-Haul, AmeriGas, and other RV-friendly propane dealers are usually the best bet. Always call ahead to confirm.
Our Setup
We carry two propane tanks and always keep one full. When one runs out, we switch to the backup and refill the empty at the next convenient stop. This simple system gives us peace of mind—especially when we’re boondocking or camping far from town.
One time, we ran out at midnight while boondocking in 30-degree weather. Having a second tank ready meant we didn’t have to pack up or scramble for help—we just swapped tanks and went back to bed.
Stay Fueled
Propane is one of those things you don’t think about—until you run out (and somehow it’s always at 2am). With a little planning and a backup tank in your setup, you can avoid surprises and enjoy the road a whole lot more. Whether you refill or swap, the key is to stay ahead of your needs so you’re never left without heat, hot water, or a way to heat water for your morning coffee.
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